Ruth: The Redeemer’s Covering
This week’s texts from Scripture are:
Ruth Chapter 3 (ESV)
Sermon Outline:
I. Faith Makes a Plan — “Should I not seek rest for you?” (Ruth 3:1)
Naomi steps out in faith to seek rest—a home and a future—for Ruth.
Boaz, the goel (redeemer), points us to God’s covenant faithfulness.
Faith doesn’t sit still; it moves forward, trusting God’s promises.
II. Faith Steps Forward — “Who are you?” (Ruth 3:9)
Ruth approaches Boaz in bold, humble faith.
Her request to be covered by his “wings” is a plea to enter God’s covenant.
True faith takes risks grounded in God’s promises, not self-preservation.
III. Faith Waits in Hope — “How did you fare, my daughter?” (Ruth 3:16)
Naomi’s question echoes Boaz’s: “Who are you?”—a question of identity.
Ruth returns with a promise and a pledge (six measures of barley).
God’s people live in this same tension—redeemed, yet waiting for full restoration.
Application Questions…
Comprehension Questions (Understanding the Text)
In what ways does Ruth 3 show that God is active even when His name is not mentioned?
What does Naomi mean when she asks Ruth, “Should I not seek rest for you?” (v.1)? How does this idea of “rest” connect to God’s covenant promises?
What is the role of a goel (kinsman-redeemer), and how does Boaz fulfill this role for Ruth and Naomi?
What is the significance of Ruth asking Boaz to “spread his wings” over her? How does this connect to God’s promises in Scripture?
How does the ending of Ruth 3—where Ruth must wait for Boaz to act—teach us about faith and patience in God’s timing?
Life Application Questions (Living the Text)
Faith That Acts
Naomi and Ruth both took bold, faith-filled action despite uncertainty. Where might God be inviting you to take a risk in faith right now?
Naomi made a plan based on her trust in God’s covenant faithfulness. What kind of faith-based planning or next step might God be calling you to make?
How do you balance prayerful trust in God with practical steps of obedience in your own life?
Faith That Defines Identity
Boaz and Naomi both ask Ruth, “Who are you?” How would you answer that question in light of your identity in Christ?
Where are you most tempted to define yourself by your past or your circumstances rather than by your redemption in Christ?
Ruth’s faith moved her from being an outsider to belonging to God’s covenant family. How has Christ’s redemption reshaped your sense of belonging and purpose?
Faith That Waits
Ruth had to wait after doing everything she could. Where are you being asked to wait faithfully and patiently on God’s timing?
What helps you stay grounded in hope when God’s promises feel delayed or hidden?
Naomi and Ruth saw the “current of grace” through ordinary events. How can you cultivate eyes to see God’s grace at work in the everyday parts of your life?
Faith That Points to Christ
Boaz’s redemption of Ruth points forward to Jesus, our ultimate Redeemer. How does seeing Jesus as your goel shape the way you view your past, your struggles, and your future?
If you have questions about this sermon, please feel free to reach out to David.