The Story of Ruth | Sermon by Father.Mungamuri Devadasu

The Story of Ruth

Sermon Passage: Then she arose with her daughters in law, that she might return from the country of Moab: for she had heard in the country of Moab how that the Lord had visited his people in giving them bread. Ruth 1:6

During the time of the Judges, a famine struck the land. In response, Elimelech, his wife Naomi, and their two sons moved to the land of Moab. According to Moses’ teachings, Moabites and Hebrews had no association (Deuteronomy 23:3-6). However, after ten years, tragedy struck—Naomi’s husband and both her sons passed away. Later, Naomi heard that God had blessed her homeland with food, so she prepared to return. This marks the beginning of the story.

Why Was the Story of Ruth Included in the Bible?
Many question why the Book of Ruth was included in the Bible. The answer lies in Ruth’s words, which express deep commitment:

• "Where you live, I will live."
• "Your people will be my people."
• "Your God will be my God."
• "Where you die, I will die."
• "Only death will separate us."

Among these, the most powerful statement is: "Your God will be my God." This declaration of faith and devotion was cherished by the Jewish people, which is why this book was included in the Bible. Similarly, a bride must vow lifelong commitment, saying, "Lord, I will never leave you until death."

 

 

 

The Redemption of Ruth

Moabites and the Israelites - According to Moses’ teachings, Moabites were not to be included among the Israelites. Their lineage was to remain pure. However, when Boaz chose to marry Ruth, the elders of Israel accepted and blessed their union. Despite Ruth being from Moab, Boaz redeemed her through marriage, offering her protection and a new identity among God’s people.

From Curse to Blessing - The Moabites had previously attempted to curse the Israelites by bribing the prophet Balaam (Numbers 22-24). However, God turned the curse into a blessing. This demonstrates God’s sovereignty in transforming situations for His divine purpose.

Ruth’s Redemption through Boaz - Boaz, being a kinsman of Elimelech, acted as a redeemer by marrying Ruth. Despite Ruth being a foreigner, the Israelites welcomed and blessed her. Her acceptance into the community serves as a symbol of the future Bride of Christ, where God’s grace, not the Law, brings people into His kingdom.

The Genealogy of Jesus Christ - Boaz and Ruth’s son Obed became the father of Jesse, who was the father of King David. From David’s lineage came Mary, through whom Jesus Christ was born. Thus, Ruth, a foreigner, became a part of the genealogy of the Messiah, demonstrating that God’s grace extends beyond Israel to all nations.

The Significance of the Book of Ruth

Among the 66 books of the Bible, only two focus entirely on the lives of women—Ruth and Esther. This highlights how God values and honours women. Ruth was a Gentile woman who married a Jewish man, while Esther was a Jewish woman who married a Gentile king. Through Ruth, God demonstrated His plan to unite Jews and Gentiles to bring forth the Messiah. This divine purpose was established long before Christ’s coming, approximately 1,500 years earlier.

 

The Inclusion of Gentiles in God’s Plan

The Jews believed they were God's chosen people, separate from the Gentiles. However, in the rapture of the Church, there will be two groups: the dead in Christ (those who have already passed away) and the living believers (those who will be caught up alive). Both Jews and Gentiles will be part of this great gathering, as the Bride of Christ (the Church) is incomplete without the inclusion of the Gentiles.

Ruth: An Oasis in the Desert

The Book of Ruth is like an oasis in the wilderness, offering refreshment and hope. It is a story of pure love, teaching that holy love can overcome all hardships. However, this is not a typical romantic story between a man and a woman. Instead, it highlights the deep love and loyalty of a young woman toward her mother-in-law. Just as Ruth’s love for Naomi was steadfast, so must the Bride of Christ remain devoted to her Lord, enduring all trials with unwavering faith and purity.

Christ as the Greater Boaz

The Book of Ruth serves as a symbolic representation of how Christ, who is greater than Boaz, redeemed all of us—Gentiles and sinners—through His precious blood. Ruth was a Moabite, considered an outsider and unworthy of inclusion among God's people. She was poor, needy, and in a state of desperation. Yet, through her marriage to Boaz, she was redeemed and given a new life. Similarly, the Bride of Christ (the Church) was once a sinner, distant from God, spiritually poor, and in great need—without rest or true security. But just as Ruth found rest and redemption in Boaz, the Church finds rest and salvation in Christ.

Boaz as a Foreshadow of Christ

Boaz serves as a Christ-like figure in many ways. He was the master of the harvest, just as Christ is the Lord of the harvest, gathering His people. He was a mighty warrior, while Christ, the Lion of Judah, defeated Satan and death. Boaz was also a compassionate redeemer, just as Christ graciously welcomes sinners into His kingdom. When the Church, despite facing great tribulations, comes to Christ, He embraces her, heals her, and redeems her—just as Boaz accepted Ruth. As Boaz cherished Ruth, so Christ cherishes His Church.