Ruth’s Romance – Part 1 – Ruth 2

In our last message we looked at Ruth’s Repentance, how she turned from her pagan idolatry to the One True God of Israel. In this message we study the romance between Ruth and Boaz which provides some wonderful lessons on Christian courtship as well as a beautiful type of Christ and his bride the church.

“The Book of Ruth sets forth a lovely picture of life in Israel during the time of the Judges. It was not written by Ruth, but is rather about Ruth. The name “Ruth” means “friendship” or “beautiful”. It is commonly believed that the prophet Samuel is the author of the Book.” (Sorenson)

Suggested Outline for Ruth

• Ruth’s Repentance (Chap. 1)
• Ruth’s Romance (Chap. 2-3)
• Ruth’s Redemption (Chap. 4:1-12)
• Ruth’s Reward (Chap. 4:13-22)

The Providence of the Romance (Vs. 1-7)

The Providence of God is clearly seen at work in this godly romance. God was working to bring this couple together. We see God’s Providence in:

The Plan to Glean (Vs. 1-2)

1. We are introduced to a snapshot of Boaz at the beginning of the chapter to help set the scene for what follows (Vs. 1)
   1. He is noted as being a relative of Elimelech and a “mighty man of wealth”. As we will see, he was a man not only of material wealth, he was a man of spiritual wealth.
   2. Note: On the practical side, a man needs to be in a position to be able to support a wife. That does not mean he has to be as wealthy as Boaz but he needs to be able to fulfill his role as provider for the family.
2. Ruth proposes that she go and glean to help provide for her and her widowed mother-in-law (Vs. 2)
   1. Evidently, she was aware of the gleaning provision in the law for the poor. Ruth’s gleaning based on O.T. provision for the poor (See Lev. 19:9; 23:22; Deut. 24:19-21). Ruth was both a stranger and a widow so qualified for this provision. The fact she had to go and glean tells us that her and her mother-in-law Naomi were poor.
   2. Notice that she went looking to find “grace” in someone’s sight. What a picture of the poor sinner who has nothing seeking grace from the One who has the resources to meet the need.

The Place to Glean (Vs. 3-7)

1. Ruth goes out and begins to glean in a field. Little did she know that she had come to the field of none other than Boaz (Vs. 3). The Bible says “her hap was to light on a part of the field belonging unto Boaz” (Vs. 3) The word ‘hap’ means “by chance, unexpectedly”. “From a human standpoint it appeared to be a fortuitous coincidence but in reality, it was the result of Divine Providence. Who could have imagined the far-reaching effects of Ruth “happening” on the field of Boaz? (Flanigan) The hand of God was at work to bring Ruth and Boaz together. Little did they both know that day how their paths would cross in the will of God.
2. Boaz comes to the field for the day, greets his workers and then inquires of his manager as to the identity of the woman gleaning in his field (Vs. 4-7). Ruth clearly caught Boaz’s interest and attention which lead him to make the inquiry.

The People in the Romance (Vs. 8-23)

These verses detail the first encounter between Ruth and Boaz that would spark a godly interest that would eventually lead to marriage in the will of God. These verses give us further insight into the character of the three main characters involved in this romance – Boaz, Ruth and Noami. Let’s look at each of them in turn.

Boaz – The Portrait of a Godly Man (Vs. 8-9, 11-12, 14-16)

Boaz is a good example to Christian men in a number of key areas. His name means “in him is strength”. He was:

An industrious man (Vs. 1, 4, 3:2).

Boaz was clearly a hardworking, diligent man. This is an essential requirement for a prospective husband. 2 Thess. 3:10 says, “For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.” Boaz was a man of industry and activity. He wasn’t at home sitting on the couch watching better fields and vineyards or playing world of Canaan craft on his computer! If you are idle and lazy as a single man, you are not a good candidate for marriage!

A spiritual man (Vs. 4, 12).

This is the most essential requirement. Boaz’s spirituality is seen multiple times throughout the account. For example:

1. In his greeting to his workers (Vs. 4). Clearly Boaz had a reputation as a man of God with his workers. Don’t forget that this is during the time of the Judges. It is an encouraging reminder that by God’s grace a man can be godly even in the midst of a polluted and apostate environment.
2. In his blessing of Ruth (Vs. 12). Boaz’s words reveal a man of spiritual substance. His words are really a prayer for Ruth. Little did Boaz know that he would end up being part of God’s “reward” to this dear lady.
3. The great need of the hour is for spiritual men like Boaz. A woman needs a godly leader for a husband. There is nothing worse that men who are spiritually shallow.

A protective man (Vs. 8-9).

Ruth, as a foreigner and a widow was vulnerable to exploitation and abuse. Boaz instructs her to stay in the safety of his field with his female workers (maidens)¹ and assures her that he has commanded the men working in his field to not make any advances towards her. Further, in this whole account we never see Boaz use his position and power to exploit a vulnerable woman in need. Boaz is an example of a true gentleman.

A kind hearted man (Vs. 11-12).

Boaz spoke in a kind and comforting manner to Ruth. His words reveal:

1. He had heard of Ruth before they met (Vs. 11). He had genuine admiration for Ruth and her godly character and expressed that to her. Ruth and Boaz were clearly drawn together not just by physical attraction but by their attraction to each other’s faith. It is entirely appropriate to express words of appreciation and admiration to one another in a godly romance.
2. He desired the blessings of the God Ruth had come to trust to be upon her (Vs. 12). The picture of Ruth coming to a place of shelter under Jehovah’s wings is truly beautiful.²
3. Note: On a practical note, women appreciate a man who is kind and loving in his words towards her. Words a very powerful and meaningful for a woman. Look at Ruth’s response in verse 13. Men need to be taught the appropriate treatment of women from a young age. Boys should be taught to treat their mother and sisters with gentleness and respect in word and action.³

A providing man (Vs. 8-9, 14-16)

Boaz was a good provider. God has put it in a man to want to provide for a woman. Sadly, that instinctive is largely smashed out of men today but it should be encouraged. His motivation to provide for Ruth is demonstrated in the following ways:

1. The invitation to stay and exclusively glean in his field (Vs. 8)
2. The invitation to help herself to the water his workers had drawn (Vs. 9) In a day when often women were considered inferior to men, this was a significant gesture on Boaz’s part.
3. The invitation to daily dining (Vs. 14). Boaz was present for these meals as he handed her parched corn. The “parched corn” was “some of the new grain, roasted on the spot, and fit for use after being rubbed in the hands – a favourite viand (food) in the East.” (JFB) “Vinegar” is a type of sauce or “a sour beverage composed of vinegar mixed with oil; a very refreshing drink, which is still a favorite beverage in the East.” (Delitzsch) Not only was this another act of kindness on Boaz’s part, it undoubtedly gave them opportunity to get to know each other more over the several months of harvest.
4. Note: It is appropriate for a courting couple to communicate and spend time together in order to get to know each other. There is romance of a wholesome and pure kind in contrast to the world and its ways.

Ruth – The Portrait of a Virtuous Woman (Vs. 2-3, 7, 10, 13)

The name ‘Ruth’ means “beautiful” or “friendship”. In Ruth 3:11 Boaz makes mention of Ruth’s godly reputation as a “virtuous woman”. It is a fascinating study to read the character traits of a virtuous woman in Proverbs 31:10-31 and then see how they are personified in Ruth. Ruth was:

1. A diligent woman (Vs. 2-3, 7) – Ruth was not an idle woman who spent her days in idle gossip. She was a disciplined woman who used her time productively. She knew how to work. She did not spend her days painting her face and posting pictures of herself on Instaglitz.
2. A serving woman (Vs. 2) – Ruth clearly cared for her aged mother- in-law and took steps to help provide for their daily bread.
3. A spiritual woman (Chap. 1) – Ruth’s spirituality is clearly demonstrated in her decision to follow the One True God of Israel. Her godly character is on display throughout the entire Book in multiple ways. Boaz and Ruth were spiritually matched. Remember, you tend to attract what you are! If you are mediocre spiritually, you will tend to be attracted to and attract someone of a similar spiritual temperature.
4. A humble woman (Vs. 10)
   1. A humble posture (Vs. 10a). To bow in this manner was a demonstration of respect and humility in the East. She clearly had great admiration and respect for this godly man who had entered her life. Men, try to be a man worthy of a godly woman’s respect!
   2. A humble attitude (Vs. 10b). Ruth was clearly a competent, charactered and beautiful woman and yet she was not puffed up in pride and arrogance. She had a humble view of herself.
   3. Note: Ruth’s words of gratitude to Boaz perfectly express the attitude of the grateful believer who has received grace from the heart and hands of the Saviour. Are we not in awe and wonder that we found grace in our Saviour’s sight? Are we not filled with thanksgiving when we consider that as Boaz made his vast resources available for a poor widow like Ruth, our Lord Jesus Christ has opened the way for us through salvation to enjoy the exceeding riches of His grace (Eph. 1:7, 2:7) the riches of His mercy (Eph. 2:4) the riches of His glory (Eph. 1:18, 3:16) and the unsearchable riches of Christ (Eph. 3:8)? “What wonderful condescension! The mighty Boaz becomes interested in a poor, penniless, despised, weak, helpless stranger! Marvelous grace! Matchless goodness! Boaz is interested in Ruth!” (Heslop) Those who love the Saviour can see here a beautiful picture of His grace toward them.
   4. A pure woman (3:6-14). We will cover this in more detail in the next lesson but if you study the account without a set of glasses from Hollywood, you will find that both Boaz and Ruth conducted themselves in a modest, decent and pure fashion.
   5. A submissive woman (Vs. 23). Ruth was willing to follow Boaz’s godly leadership. She took his advice on board and stayed in the safety of his field.
   6. A virtuous woman (3:11) With amazing parallel, the “virtuous” wife of Proverbs 31:10-31 shares at least 8-character traits with Ruth. In fact, if Bathsheba was the author of Proverbs 31, which is highly probable, (see Prov. 31:1) then it is possible she had great grandmother Ruth in mind as her inspiration and example.⁴ Ruth is the personification and illustration of a virtuous woman:⁵
      1. Devoted to her family (Ruth 1:15-18; Prov. 31:1-12, 23)
      2. Delighting in her work (Ruth 2:2; Prov. 31:13)
      3. Diligent in her labor (Ruth 2:7, 17, 23; Prov. 31:14-18, 19-21, 24, 27)
      4. Dedicated to godly speech (Ruth 2:10, 13; Prov. 13:26)
      5. Dependent on God (Ruth 2:12; Prov. 31:30)
      6. Dressed with care and beauty (Ruth 3:3; Prov. 31:22, 25a)
      7. Discreet with men (Ruth 3:6-13; Prov. 31:11-12, 23)
      8. Delivering blessings (Ruth 4:14-15; Prov. 31:28-29, 31)

Naomi – the Portrait of a selfless Parent (Vs. 18-23)

Naomi is the closest thing to a parental authority in this account, at least for Ruth, and she sets a good example for parents to follow.

1. She clearly recognized the hand of God at work in Ruth and Boaz’s romance and was submitted to and supportive of it (Vs. 18-23). Note particularly verse 20.
2. She was focused on what was best for her daughters in law (1:8-9; 3:1). She was motivated by a desire for Ruth to find a place of rest and happiness with a new husband and home. As an older woman with no husband and hardly any material resources, Naomi could easily have been self-centered and selfish and tried to hand on to Ruth. In reality, we see the opposite. Naomi was absolutely focused on helping Ruth marry the right man. She even helped speed up the process! (Chapter 3)
3. She provided godly advice that was a help, not a hindrance to what God was doing in bringing Ruth and Boaz together.

Conclusion

Will you commit to doing romance and marriage God’s way as a single person?

References

1. The men would cut the grain with sickles and the women would bind them into sheaves.
2. Illustration: Baby quails.
3. Illustration: Dad’s training in relation to mother and sisters.
4. David was Ruth’s great grandson (Ruth 4:21-22).
5. Macarthur Bible Commentary, p. 294.

Sermon 2 of 4 in Ruth Series

Sermon Audio Id: 51224636581139