Question about the Book of Ruth

[cmuchristianguy]

Hi,
I am leading a bible study right now on the book of Ruth. A lot of people believe this story parallels the story of our salvation or that the story is prophetic in that it paints a picture of what is still to come. I have not reached any kind of conclusions. I believe the story stands out by itself with a lot of great examples for us to follow. The story is absolutely true. At the same time it is possible for it to be a prophetic story. Next week we are going to be reviewing Ruth by seeing the similarities between this story and the story of our salvation. If anyone can add some thoughts of what they think or have any webpages or resources I would appreciate the help. Thank you

-Eric
cmuchristianguy

 

[Rebirth In Flames]

The main purpose of the book of Ruth was to show how three people remained strong in character and true to God even when the society around them was collapsing. Of course the setting it was written in was much like the setting we live in today: It was a dark time in Israel's history when people lived to please themselves, not God.. (Judges 17:6) The 5 main themes in this book are faithfulness, kindness, integrity, protection, and prosperity/blessing.

As far as your analogy with salvation goes.. I can see how Boaz's redeeming of Ruth is a picture of Christ redeeming us.

 

[CharlesYTK]

The book of Ruth is also a good picture of how Gentiles are included in the salvation plan of God for all nations. Ruth is not Jewish. She is a Gentle. She attaches herself through faith and total dedication toward Israel and their God. And as it turns out she is the great....Great Grandmother of King David and therefore also of Messiah Yeshua. Gentiles today are bought into Israel (the community of faith, the bride of Adoanai) through trusting faith and not through genetics or ritual conversion.

It is also the story of covenants and the kinsmen redeemer.

 

[Crazy Liz]

Notice also the blessing the elders pronounce upon Ruth: May you be like Tamar!

Have you read Genesis 38? What do Ruth and Tamar have in common?