Ruth 4:13-22 – The Boss’ Baby

Ruth gives birth to a son, but as the book closes the focus is back on Naomi, whose life, heart, and future have all been transformed by God’s tender mercy.

Our text in this study is: Ruth 4:13-22
Series: The Gleaning Lady
Gene Pensiero Jr

Find the rest of the series at https://calvaryhanford.com/thegleaninglady

Subscribe on YouTube at:
https://youtube.com/calvaryhanford

Read the notes at:
https://calvaryhanford.substack.com

In this conclusion to our study through the Book of Ruth, we arrive at a scene of total restoration. “The Boss’ Baby” (Ruth 4:13-22) takes us from the threshing floor to the nursery, where we see God’s providence on full display. Naomi, who returned to Bethlehem in chapter one empty and bitter, is now fully restored. She holds a grandson, Obed, in her lap—a child who becomes a “life-restorer” and a nourisher of her old age.

This verse-by-verse teaching explores the dramatic progression of Ruth’s life. We trace her journey from being a destitute foreigner and a beggar in the fields to becoming a bride and a mother in Israel. This narrative serves as a powerful picture of the Gospel and our own spiritual biography. As outlined in Ephesians 2, we see how God takes those who are strangers to the covenants of promise and draws them near through the blood of a Redeemer.

From a Calvary Chapel perspective, we examine the theological depth of the “Kinsman-Redeemer.” Boaz did not merely marry Ruth; he acted to save a family line from extinction. This points us directly to Jesus Christ, the true Redeemer who pays the expense to ransom us from death and bring us into His family. We also discuss the power of hesed—God’s loyal, active love—and how it is superior to any human resource or cultural ideal.

Finally, we look at the “stinger” at the end of the book. Just as a post-credits scene in a movie sets up a sequel, the genealogy in verses 18-22 connects the line of Perez to the future glory of Israel. We analyze the Hebrew concept of toledot (family records) and how this list of ten names links the promises of Genesis to the arrival of King David. It is a reminder that God is always working behind the scenes of history to bring about the Messiah.

Whether you are studying the Old Testament, interested in the lineage of Jesus, or searching for hope during a difficult season, this message is a reminder that God has not forgotten you. He is the God who turns sorrow into joy and emptiness into fullness.

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Ruth 4:1-12 – Have You No Name?!?

A redeemer closer than Boaz has the chance to show hesed to Ruth and Naomi, but instead chooses his own wealth and convenience to his shame.

Our text in this study is: Ruth 4:1-12
Series: The Gleaning Lady
Gene Pensiero Jr

Find the rest of the series at https://calvaryhanford.com/thegleaninglady

Subscribe on YouTube at:
https://youtube.com/calvaryhanford

Read the notes at:
https://calvaryhanford.substack.com

Have You No Name? The Kinsman Redeemer’s Duty (Ruth 4:1-12 Bible Study)
Welcome to our verse-by-verse study through the Old Testament book of Ruth! This message explores the dramatic climax of the book in Ruth 4:1-12, where the fate of Ruth and Naomi is decided at the city gate of Bethlehem. This passage is a powerful demonstration of God’s providence and provides a vivid picture of Jesus Christ as our ultimate Kinsman Redeemer.

We are introduced to a mysterious figure, the closest relative with the right to redeem Elimelech’s land and raise up an heir for the deceased. Yet, the author refuses to name him, referring to him in Hebrew as Peloni Almoni—”Mr. So-And-So.” We examine why this man is permanently left as a “Hebrew John Doe” and how his refusal to act contrasts sharply with the hesed love and sacrificial duty of Boaz.

The Redemption at the Gate: Key Insights
Providence, Not Coincidence: Boaz’s timely encounter with the anonymous redeemer at the city gate of Bethlehem underscores the truth that God actively engages in our lives to accomplish His will. This legal meeting, before ten elders, was a pivotal moment leading directly to the lineage of King David and ultimately, Christ Himself.

The Contrast of Hearts: We contrast Peloni Almoni, who only thinks of his own portfolio and fears financial ruin, with Boaz, who shows extraordinary faith and sacrificial love. The first redeemer’s refusal to pay the cost reveals an un-hesed heart, unwilling to sacrifice his inheritance to bring life and future to those in need.

The Cost of Redemption: Boaz steps in to buy back Elimelech’s forfeited property and, crucially, to acquire Ruth the Moabitess as his wife to “perpetuate the deceased man’s name.” This act perfectly foreshadows our Redeemer, Jesus Christ, who “though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor.” As 1 Peter 1:18-19 reminds us, we are redeemed not with silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ.

Transformation and Inheritance: By paying the full price, Boaz completes the transaction, bringing Ruth into the family and raising up the name of the dead. This mirrors what Christ does for us: He brings life where there was death and gives us a share in His inheritance. The forfeited world will one day be restored by the grace of God.

Applying Our Faith: The video concludes with two points of application for living out our Christianity: Surrender to Jesus, the mighty Redeemer, as Naomi surrendered her right to the field; and Serve others sacrificially, choosing to be a person of hesed like Boaz, used by God in the ongoing story of redemption.

This Calvary Chapel Bible study is a rich resource for those seeking to study the Bible and understand the depths of spiritual truth found in the Old Testament. Join us to learn about the Kinsman Redeemer, the power of faith, and the importance of sacrificial service.

Keywords: Ruth 4, Ruth 4:1-12, Book of Ruth, Kinsman Redeemer, Boaz, Naomi, Ruth the Moabitess, Bible Study, Old Testament, Redemption, Peloni Almoni, Mr. So-And-So, City Gate, Bethlehem, Elimelech, Inheritance, Law of Moses, Levirite Marriage, Hesed, Jesus Christ, Redeemer, Providence, Faith, Surrender, Service, New Testament, King David, Calvary Chapel, Christianity, Study the Bible, Spiritual Growth, Israel, Evangelical, Bible Teaching, Lord.

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Ruth 3:7-18 – The Waiting Dame

Ruth and Boaz speak about her need to be redeemed and in the end the best thing she can do is go home and wait.

Our text in this study is: Ruth 3:7-18
Series: The Gleaning Lady
Gene Pensiero Jr

Find the rest of the series at https://calvaryhanford.com/thegleaninglady

Subscribe on YouTube at:
https://youtube.com/calvaryhanford

Read the notes at:
https://calvaryhanford.substack.com

The Waiting Dame (Ruth 3:7-18): Finding Rest in the Redeemer
Welcome to our ongoing Bible study through the Old Testament book of Ruth. In this passage (Ruth 3:7-18), we explore a pivotal moment in the narrative and see the faith of Ruth and the faithfulness of Boaz beautifully displayed. This is a study on the power of waiting on the Lord—an essential discipline for every Christian who desires to walk in obedience and trust.

Ruth and Naomi were facing desperate circumstances, but this text teaches us that God was already working to restore their future. Like the story of Fabius Maximus, who saved Rome by patiently waiting on the enemy, we see that God’s leading in our lives often calls us to a restful trust rather than a flurry of anxious activity. As we walk with Jesus Christ, our movements should flow from His direction, not the leanings of our emotions.

A Glimpse of Our Redeemer
The action takes place at the threshing floor, where Ruth comes to Boaz seeking refuge and redemption. This moment is a powerful foreshadowing of Christ, our ultimate Redeemer.

Boaz, a man of noble character (Ruth 2:1), finds joy and dignity in his work and generously uses his resources (his barley) to bless those in need. He is a wonderful example of God’s people actively participating in God’s activity.

Ruth presents herself not as a trophy, but as a servant seeking cover under his wing (Ruth 3:9), echoing the words Boaz first spoke to her (Ruth 2:12). Her focus is entirely on redemption.

We see Ruth’s noble character (Ruth 3:11) demonstrated by her unwavering faith in Yahweh, her commitment to the covenantal process, and the loyal love (hesed) she showed to Naomi. This kind of Godly love is the foundation of our own relationship with God—He loves us first, and our response is to love Him back with devoted obedience.

The Call to Active Waiting
Boaz immediately promises to resolve the situation, even revealing that he had been working on their behalf before she ever asked (Ruth 3:12-13). This illustrates the love and mind-set of our Savior, who died for us while we were yet sinners. Even though there was an obstacle—a closer redeemer—Boaz would not violate the Law to get her, reminding us that Jesus perfectly kept the Law on our behalf.

Boaz’s immediate provision of a generous gift of barley was for both Ruth and Naomi, symbolizing how God gifts us to bless others and restore those who feel empty.

Ultimately, Naomi’s final advice becomes, “My daughter, wait” (Ruth 3:18). This is an invitation to abide in Him and exercise a restful trust in our Redeemer. Like Ruth, our part is to watch, listen, and follow Him. We wait not because we are paralyzed, but because we know our Savior finished the work for us on the cross, paid the price, and is mindful of us.

If you are seeking to study the Bible from a conservative, evangelical perspective, or are interested in the teachings of Calvary Chapel, we invite you to join us.

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Ruth 3:1-6 – Plan Of Attract

Naomi hatches a scandalous, threshing floor plan to get Boaz to notice – and hopefully marry – Ruth.

Our text in this study is: Ruth 3:1-6
Series: The Gleaning Lady
Gene Pensiero Jr

Find the rest of the series at https://calvaryhanford.com/thegleaninglady

Subscribe on YouTube at:
https://youtube.com/calvaryhanford

Read the notes at:
https://calvaryhanford.substack.com

The Danger of Human Schemes: Learning from Naomi’s Risky Plan in Ruth 3:1-6
Welcome to our in-depth Bible study as we continue our journey through the Book of Ruth, a powerful narrative in the Old Testament that reveals God’s faithfulness and providence. In this video, “Plan Of Attract (Ruth 3:1-6),” we examine a critical and often unsettling moment where Naomi, motivated by a sincere desire to find security and rest for her daughter-in-law, Ruth, crafts a plan that is humanly calculated and dangerously close to worldly wisdom.

We open with a vivid illustration: the infamous 1970 exploding whale incident in Oregon. A local problem—a massive, decaying carcass on the beach—was met with an extreme, human-driven solution: a half-ton of dynamite. The result was a near-disaster, an unforgettable lesson in what not to do. We draw a parallel from this chaotic scene to Naomi’s well-intentioned but scandalous plan to secure a Kinsman-Redeemer for Ruth.

Key Themes and Discussion:

Human Wisdom vs. God’s Will: Naomi’s goal—a Godly marriage and future provision for Ruth—is good. The problem lies in the methodology. We explore how Naomi, driven by understandable urgency and her past reliance on human calculation, takes the helm of her family’s future, bypassing the slow, patient walk of faith that God often requires. This moment serves as a timeless reminder for all Christians and those seeking to study the Bible that God’s will must be accomplished God’s way, not through shortcuts or unsanctified schemes.

The Problem of Spiritual Compromise: We delve into the details of Naomi’s instructions for Ruth at the threshing floor. We discuss why this location and her specific guidance—to bathe, anoint herself, and go to Boaz under the cover of darkness—was risky and open to dangerous misinterpretation, especially in the culture of the Judges. This near-disaster is preserved in Scripture to warn us against using worldly methods and temptation as tools for a seemingly good end. Even with good intentions, spiritual impropriety can lead to devastating consequences, or shrapnel that totals lives.

Redemption and Providence: The text underscores Ruth’s hopeless position as a Moabite widow in Israel. Her only hope is for a Redeemer—the Goel—to intervene and rescue her. This points directly to the ultimate need for every person—redemption by the blood of the Lamb, Christ Jesus, our Savior. Throughout the narrative, it is only God’s grace and providence that prevent Naomi’s rash plan from destroying Ruth’s reputation and future. This truth should humble us and remind us that God cares for us far more than we care for ourselves.

We emphasize that the Christian life is marked by hearing and obeying everything God has said. We must resist the urge to rush decisions out of anxiety or to rely on our own flawed schemes. Instead, we are called to wait on the Lord for wisdom and clarity of direction, following the commands He has given us for our good and His glory.

Join us as we learn from Naomi’s mistake and discover the peace that comes from trusting that the Lord has the ultimate plan and the power to deliver us from every difficult circumstance.

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Ruth 2:8-23 – Field Of Gleans

Boaz moves hastily to rescue Ruth and provide for her both in the short and not-so-short term.

Our text in this study is: Ruth 2:8-23
Series: The Gleaning Lady
Gene Pensiero Jr

Find the rest of the series at https://calvaryhanford.com/thegleaninglady

Subscribe on YouTube at:
https://youtube.com/calvaryhanford

Read the notes at:
https://calvaryhanford.substack.com

Field Of Gleans: Rescue, Redemption, and Refuge in Ruth 1:8-23
Welcome to our continuing Bible study through the Old Testament book of Ruth! In this message, “Field of Gleans,” we delve into Ruth 2:8-23, examining a pivotal moment in the story where Boaz steps in to provide for and protect the Moabite outsider, Ruth. This text is far more than a nice historical account; it’s a living illustration of how God rescues us and offers new life through a personal relationship with Him.

We begin by considering the incredible true story of Captain Arthur Rostron and the RMS Carpathia racing through the treacherous North Atlantic to rescue the survivors of the Titanic. Rostron, a devout believer who said, “I can only conclude another hand than mine was on the helm,” models the kind of zealous, selfless love—the hesed love of God—that drives the action of our Redeemer.

The Savior Who Runs to Your Aid
The central theme of this passage is redemption. Just as Captain Rostron ran to the aid of those perishing, so Christ is a Savior Who ran to our aid. We see this truth powerfully foreshadowed in Boaz’s actions toward Ruth. He goes to her, knows about her past, and calls her “my daughter,” offering provision (grain and water) and protection—a clear picture of Jesus’ work on our behalf. Boaz’s invitation is an invitation to abide and to trust in his leadership, echoing Jesus’ call in John 15 for us to remain in Him for life and blessing.

This story is for Christians and those exploring spirituality alike. We discuss the challenge and blessing of abiding in Christ’s boundaries and how, through God’s love, we are elevated from being beggars to being called friends and children of God. For believers, we explore key applications for discipleship and Godly conduct among men and women.

Finding Refuge Under His Wings
Ruth’s response to Boaz’s incredible kindness is worship, humility, and grateful praise. She brings nothing to the table but brokenness and need, recognizing that it is only by grace that she is given this chance. We, too, must come to our loving Savior in thankfulness. Boaz highlights the true reason for her blessing: not her good deeds, but her faith in seeking refuge from Yahweh, the God of Israel.

We consider the powerful image of finding refuge under God’s wings—a place of mercy that offers not just forgiveness, but a full reward and a life where you are made whole. The word Boaz “spoke to the heart” of Ruth is the tender word of God pronouncing comfort and pardon for all who seek Him (Isaiah 40). We see Boaz’s radical humility as he serves her a meal, prefiguring Jesus Christ, the King of kings, Who came to serve and give His life as a ransom.

Finally, we’ll look at Naomi’s redemption from bitterness and the “cliffhanger” of the family redeemer (Kinsman-Redeemer). The ice in the water, the obstacles of the law, sin, and death, remind us that Jesus had to go to war to save you. Christianity is an offer of life from the Redeemer to all who will trust and stay in His field.

If you are searching for a video from Calvary Chapel, are interested in studying the Bible verse-by-verse, or simply want to know more about Jesus and the Christian faith, we encourage you to watch and subscribe for more God-centered teaching. Don’t leave this field! The choice to abide in Christ is the only life worth living. What is your hope for the future?

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Ruth 2:1-7 – As Love Would Have It

Was it luck that led Ruth into the very place where she could meet the person who would save her life, or was it God’s love?

Our text in this study is: Ruth 2:1-7
Series: The Gleaning Lady
Gene Pensiero Jr

Find the rest of the series at https://calvaryhanford.com/thegleaninglady

Subscribe on YouTube at:
https://youtube.com/calvaryhanford

Read the notes at:
https://calvaryhanford.substack.com

Dive into the Book of Ruth with our ongoing Old Testament Bible study series! In this video, we explore the remarkable story of Ruth 2:1-7, a passage where what looks like coincidence is revealed to be the perfect, loving providence of God. We see a beautiful picture of a Savior who rescues the helpless.

Target Keywords: Ruth 2:1-7 explained, Bible study on Ruth, God’s providence, Kinsman-Redeemer, Boaz and Ruth, Old Testament deep dive, Christian Bible teaching, Calvary Chapel, study the Bible, gleaning in the Bible, Ruth the Moabitess, Jesus in the Old Testament, Gibbor Mighty Man, faith over circumstance, Robert Todd Lincoln rescue, Edwin Booth.

God’s Perfect Timing and the Mighty Man
Have you ever wondered about the odds in life? We start with a captivating true story of rescue involving Abraham Lincoln’s son, Robert Todd Lincoln, and John Wilkes Booth’s brother, Edwin Booth—a startling illustration of how fate seems to work. But in the Bible, the narrator of Ruth shows us that it’s “as Love would have it,” not luck.

The narrative introduces us to Boaz (Ruth 2:1), a “prominent man of noble character” from Elimelech’s family. We dig into the Hebrew word describing him: Gibbor, a “mighty man.” This title is a profound echo, as we connect it to Jesus Christ, the ultimate Mighty God (Isaiah 9), setting up Boaz as a type of Christ. Boaz’s character—his wealth, integrity, and good reputation—is key to understanding his role in this redemptive story.

Active Faith, Divine Direction
Ruth the Moabitess (Ruth 2:2) steps out in faith and courage, seeking to glean in the fields to provide for herself and Naomi. We discuss the Law of Moses and the vulnerable position she was in—a foreign woman in the time of the Judges. Her active search for a field in God’s will is a powerful message for our own lives: our motto is not “let go and let God,” but “seek His Kingdom.” The Lord orchestrates her steps, and she “happens” to be in the field of Boaz (Ruth 2:3). This is divine providence at work through the ordinary circumstances of life.

A Culture of Godly Relationship
Boaz arrives from Bethlehem (Ruth 2:4) and immediately sets a Godly example by speaking a blessing: “The LORD be with you.” We explore the importance of cultivating a culture of faith and gratitude in our daily lives—in our work, our schools, and our homes. Boaz was a man who stayed faithful in the face of famine when others (like Elimelech) abandoned their post. His faith made all the difference.

Boaz’s immediate care for Ruth is evident in his question, “Whose young woman is this?” (Ruth 2:5) and the servant’s answer, which highlights her Moabite heritage (Ruth 2:6). Just as Boaz extends hesed love to the outsider, the Bible reveals Christ’s love for us—He died for us “while we were yet sinners.” Salvation is a free gift received by faith in Jesus Christ, not by our own works or effort (Ruth 2:7).

Discover how this seemingly simple moment in the barley field is the beginning of a grand story of redemption, providing us with a clear illustration of Jesus Christ, our Kinsman-Redeemer, who rescues us from the pit of death and brings us to everlasting life.

New to the Bible? Interested in Calvary Chapel teaching? Join us as we unpack the eternal truths of God’s Word.

#RuthBibleStudy #GodsProvidence #KinsmanRedeemer #Boaz #Ruth #Christianity #BibleTeaching #OldTestament #CalvaryChapel #JesusChrist #Faith #Evangelical #BibleStudyOnline #Scripture

Do you see God’s providence at work in the seemingly coincidental moments of your own life? Let us know in the comments!

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Ruth 1:16-22 – Speech And Deflate

While Ruth offers a poetic and inspiring declaration of faith, her mother-in-law Naomi responds with a bitter speech of resignation, showing a stark contrast in how the two women face their uncertain future.

Our text in this study is: Ruth 1:16-22
Series: The Gleaning Lady
Gene Pensiero Jr

Find the rest of the series at https://calvaryhanford.com/thegleaninglady

Subscribe on YouTube at:
https://youtube.com/calvaryhanford

Read the notes at:
https://calvaryhanford.substack.com

Find audio, video, and text of hundreds of other studies through the Bible at https://calvaryhanford.com/

Embark on a journey through the Old Testament book of Ruth in this video as we continue our verse-by-verse Bible study series. The focus of this message is on Ruth 1:16-22, where we see a powerful and inspiring contrast between two speeches: one of bold resolve and faith, and one of bitter resignation. This Bible teaching is for anyone who wants to study the Bible, understand the book of Ruth, and see how ancient stories still apply to our lives today. If you’re searching for Christian sermons, Bible studies, or teaching from a conservative, evangelical, Calvary Chapel perspective, you’ve come to the right place.

The first speech, given by Ruth, is a beautiful and memorable declaration of her dedication to Naomi, to the people of Israel, and to the God of Israel, Yahweh. We’ll explore how her words demonstrate a bold faith, a determination to follow God no matter the circumstances. Her resolve to abandon her old life, her homeland, and her old gods to follow the one true God is a powerful picture of what it means to be saved by Jesus Christ. Ruth’s example reminds us that turning to God in faith and obedience leads to a new life brimming with hope through His mercy and grace.

In stark contrast, we will examine the speech of Naomi. After a decade of hardship, Naomi returns to Bethlehem full of bitterness and grief. We’ll see how her words are an outburst of accusations against God, reflecting a heart that has been worn down by circumstances. Her story is a humbling reminder that even in the face of loss, our speech should not be of defeat, but of trust in the Lord. Naomi’s journey from “Naomi” (pleasant) to “Mara” (bitter) shows us the dangers of a bitter heart and the importance of remembering God’s eternal truth even when our emotions tell us otherwise.

This video also touches on the importance of community and how the people of Bethlehem welcomed Naomi and Ruth, despite Naomi’s bitter response. It’s a call to be a welcoming people, extending God’s love and grace to everyone, whether they are known to us or a stranger. Ultimately, the story of Ruth and Naomi is one of restoration. While Naomi’s journey starts in bitterness, it doesn’t end there. Her return to Bethlehem—the very place God wanted her to be—shows us that it’s never too late to turn back to God. This message will encourage you that no matter your past or present circumstances, God’s plan for your life is not hopeless. The Redeemer is waiting to bring you into His loving arms.

Join us as we learn from the book of Ruth how to live a life of bold faith, trusting in God’s provision and providence, and knowing that He is always good and faithful, even when we don’t understand our circumstances. This study is an encouragement for anyone who wants to deepen their relationship with Jesus, find hope in uncertain times, or simply grow in their knowledge of God’s Word.

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Ruth 1:3-15 – Home Is Where His Hesed Is

Naomi needs to find her way home, but she tries to keep Ruth from coming with her.

Our text in this study is: Ruth 1:3-15
Series: The Gleaning Lady
Gene Pensiero Jr

Find the rest of the series at https://calvaryhanford.com/thegleaninglady

Subscribe on YouTube at:
https://youtube.com/calvaryhanford

Read the notes at:
https://calvaryhanford.substack.com

Find audio, video, and text of hundreds of other studies through the Bible at https://calvaryhanford.com/

This study is part of our series on the book of Ruth. In this message, titled “Home Is Where His Hesed Is,” we explore the powerful themes of home, rest, and God’s faithfulness in Ruth 1:3-15. We begin with a relatable comparison between a house and a home, recognizing that a true home provides peace, provision, and rest for the soul. This sets the stage for the narrative of Naomi, a woman who has lost everything and must decide where to find a place of refuge and hope.

In this study, we follow Naomi’s tragic journey, examining the consequences of Elimelech’s choice to leave Bethlehem and how it led their family into a difficult situation. We see how Naomi’s life choices and a series of devastating losses left her feeling bereaved and cut off. This section emphasizes the biblical truth that humans were created for community, friendship, and family, not isolation. Our life choices have consequences that impact those around us, and we are responsible for loving and supporting others. We also introduce Ruth, a Moabite woman who becomes one of the most refreshing characters in the Old Testament.

As the story unfolds, we see how the Lord, in His providence, sends a message of hope into Naomi’s darkness: the famine has ended, and He has visited His people with care and concern. The return journey to Judah is presented as a picture of repentance and turning back to God. The Bible often uses the metaphor of “taking a road” to represent the course of our lives. We are reminded of Jesus’ teaching about the two roads—one leading to destruction and the other to life. This message encourages anyone who has drifted away from God to simply repent and get back on the path that leads home to Him.

We then dive into a difficult but crucial part of the text, where Naomi, in her bitterness and sorrow, tries to push Orpah and Ruth away. She tells them to go back to their own people and gods, revealing her deep hurt and lack of trust in God. This serves as a stark reminder that even when we are moving in the right direction, our own hurt and self-centeredness can cause us to miss opportunities to bless others. We see the contrast between Orpah, who returns to her people, and Ruth, who “clings” to Naomi with a deep commitment. This powerful word choice highlights Ruth’s loyalty and devotion.

Ultimately, this Bible study points to Jesus Christ as the source of our true home and rest. Just as Ruth found a home in Bethlehem, Jesus invites us to make our home in Him. He is the God of hesed love, the only one who can give us rest for our souls. If you are seeking to study the Bible and understand what it means to truly trust in God, this message will be a great encouragement. This video is for anyone interested in Christianity, Jesus, and spirituality, especially those looking for solid Calvary Chapel teaching.

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Ruth 1:1-2 – The Gleaning Lady

One of the most important short stories of all time, the book of Ruth, can show us many things about our life and God’s plan for it.

Our text in this study is: Ruth 1:1-2
Series: The Gleaning Lady
Gene Pensiero Jr

Find the rest of the series at https://calvaryhanford.com/thegleaninglady

Subscribe on YouTube at:
https://youtube.com/calvaryhanford

Read the notes at:
https://calvaryhanford.substack.com

Find audio, video, and text of hundreds of other studies through the Bible at https://calvaryhanford.com/

Welcome to our study in the Old Testament book of Ruth. In this first episode of our Bible study series, we begin with an overview of the book and a careful examination of the first two verses of chapter one. Join us as we explore the rich meaning and lasting lessons within this biblical story.

The book of Ruth is an incredible story of faith, redemption, and loyal love. Often seen as a simple love story or a “chick flick,” we’ll discover that this short book is a powerful part of Holy Scripture filled with instruction for every season of life. It’s for men and women, for the faithful, and for those seeking to return to God. We see God’s providence at work alongside human obedience in the lives of three key characters: Naomi, the bitter widow who finds her way back to God; Ruth, the Moabitess who gives up everything to follow the Lord; and Boaz, the godly man who acts as their redeemer.

This study focuses on the setting of the story. The book of Ruth is set in the “time of the judges,” a dark and chaotic period in Israel’s history where “everyone did what was right in their own eyes.” This setting makes the faith of Ruth and Boaz shine even brighter. In this challenging time, we find a family—Elimelech, Naomi, and their two sons—leaving their home in Bethlehem (“the breadbasket”) due to a famine. This is a crucial decision, as they leave their inheritance and community to seek provision in Moab. We’ll see how this move, which they rationalize as a temporary sojourn, becomes a permanent settlement.

This first lesson from the book of Ruth teaches us a powerful truth: rationalizing our disobedience to God’s leading can lead to disaster. As we follow along in this story, we will learn about God’s faithfulness, even when people stray. We’ll also discover the biblical provisions for the destitute and outsiders, which reveal a side of the Law that is full of grace and mercy. The book of Ruth shows us that God’s loving-kindness, or hesed, is a lifestyle for believers.

In this series, we will explore the themes of salvation, redemption, and Jesus Christ as our Kinsman-Redeemer. The story is about how God can redeem a family and, ultimately, redeem all families through His people. Ultimately, we’ll see how Ruth, a gentile, becomes the great-grandmother of King David and an ancestor of Jesus Christ.

We invite you to join us on this journey through the book of Ruth. We hope this series helps you grow in your understanding of the Bible, strengthen your relationship with Jesus, and learn how to apply these timeless truths to your own life. Whether you are a long-time Christian or just starting to explore Christianity, this series is for you.

To follow along with our Calvary Chapel study, please subscribe and check out the rest of the videos in our series. God bless.

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