Who Was Naomi in the Bible? From Bitterness to Restoration Series: People of the Bible Primary text: Ruth 1–4 This post is written in three tiers so you can read at your pace: (1) Quick Look, (2) Simple Explanation, (3) Deep Dive. Key to watch: Naomi’s story moves from deep grief to unexpected restoration. She... Continue Reading →
In the heartwarming narrative of Ruth Chapter 3, we encounter a tale of love, loyalty, and faithfulness that transcends time. This blog post delves into the essence of the sermon, offering a comprehensive summary that brings the message to life for readers seeking inspiration and guidance from the Bible.
Introduction I have seen advertisements for the game show Deal or No Deal Island. I have never watched it and likely never will, but I did watch several episodes of its predecessor, Deal or No Deal, hosted by Howie Mandel. Contestants would select briefcases hoping to avoid the high-dollar amounts so the banker would offer... Continue Reading →
How to Use This Commentary Ruth 3 is one of the most debated chapters in the book of Ruth. Naomi develops a plan to secure Ruth’s future, Ruth approaches Boaz at the threshing floor, and Boaz responds with integrity and covenant faithfulness. Read the chapter in three movements: (1) Naomi’s plan (3:1–5), (2) the midnight... Continue Reading →
How to Use This Commentary Ruth 2 slows the story down so we can watch God’s providence unfold in ordinary life. A hungry widow goes to glean in a field, “happens” to enter Boaz’s portion, and finds far more than food. This chapter introduces Boaz, deepens Ruth’s character, and shows Naomi beginning to see the... Continue Reading →
How to Use This Commentary Ruth 1:8–22 moves from grief-filled conversation to covenant commitment. Naomi urges her daughters-in-law to return to Moab, Orpah does, Ruth does not, and the chapter ends with two widows arriving in Bethlehem carrying very different kinds of burdens. Read the passage in three movements: (1) Naomi’s plea and lament (1:8–13),... Continue Reading →
How to Use This Commentary The opening verses of Ruth introduce a story that begins in tragedy but unfolds into one of the Bible’s most beautiful accounts of redemption. The narrative begins with famine, loss, and displacement—but quietly moves toward hope. The key movement of the passage is simple: departure from Bethlehem (1:1–5) and the... Continue Reading →
Authorship and Date of Writing Who wrote the book of Ruth? The book doesn't contain a claim of authorship, although external tradition holds that Samuel the prophet wrote Ruth. The Jewish Talmud says that Ruth as well as Judges and 1 and 2 Samuel were written by this prophet of Israel. The Talmud says, "Samuel... Continue Reading →
This video by the Bible Project provides a simple but helpful overview of the book of Ruth.
Find resources to help you while you study the book of Ruth.