Ruth 2:1-23 Summary

Summary of Ruth 2:1-23:

 

1. The Central Idea of the Text is that Ruth fell under the gracious care of Boaz, her kinsman-redeemer.
2. Ruth went to glean from the fields in order to get food for her and Naomi and was providentially guided to the field of Boaz, her kinsman (Ruth 2:1-3). Boaz reveals himself as one who cares for the poor and desires to bless them (Ruth 2:4).  Boaz notices Ruth and enquires about her and receives a glowing report (Ruth 2:5-7).  Boaz, moved with compassion, tells Ruth to stay in his fields for her protection and provision (Ruth 2:8-13).  More so, Boaz welcomed Ruth into his company and personally served her, providing for her from among the harvest and not merely the edges of his field (Ruth 2:14-16).  Ruth worked hard and shared her resources with Naomi (Ruth 2:17-18).  Naomi learned that Ruth had been blessed by Boaz and informed her that he was a kinsman-redeemer (Ruth 2:19-21); a term employed of God (see 6:6; 15:13; Isa. 41:14).  Finally, Ruth explained that Boaz offered his provision and protection to her during the harvest season (Ruth 2:22-23).
3. God’s providential protection and provision for Ruth and Naomi came through Boaz, who modeled faith in God and favor to those under his care, a favor that went beyond what the law required. Favor among men is often the result of God’s sovereign work in the hearts of others ( 39:21; Ex. 3:21; 11:3; Dan. 1:9).  Ruth modeled a godly worker who shared her resources with her family and who demonstrated humility and integrity.  God is gracious to us (Eph. 2:1-10), provides for all our needs (Eph. 1:3; Phil. 4:19), and blesses us beyond what we deserve (Rom. 8:28-38; Eph. 3:20-21; 1 Pet. 1:3-5).