Question
House Church Series, Lesson 8
RUTHS AND BOAZS FAITH
(God Uses Commitment and Selflessness to Redeem a Family)
Ruth 1:1–4:22
Key Verse: 2:12
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During the times of Judges, the Lord revealed his grace by raising deliverers for his people, despite their repeated idolatry and disobedience (Jdg3:7,12; 4:1; 6:1; 10:6; 21:25). In this dark spiritual environment, God was still working through his remnant people––like Naomi, Ruth and Boaz.
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What situation prompted Naomi’s family to immigrate to Moab, and what tragedies befell them there? (1:1–5) Why did Naomi become hopeless? (1:11–13) How did she interpret what had happened? (1:13b,20–21)
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What prompted Naomi to decide to return? (1:6–7) On the way, what did she propose? (1:8–9) As Moabite widows, what risks did they face in going back to Israel? How did Orpah respond? (1:10–14a) What choice did Ruth make, and how did she express her faith? (1:14b–18) Why is it important to make a life commitment to God and his people?
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How does the author introduce Boaz? (2:1,4) What moved him to be kind to, protect and provide for Ruth––a foreigner? (2:5–11,13–18) Read 2:12. How did he bless her and encourage her faith here? How could he do this? What can husbands learn from Boaz about making a good environment for house church ministries?
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Naomi counsels Ruth (2:19–3:4)
Ruth obeys Naomi (3:5–18)
Boaz’s commitment to Ruth (4:1–12)
Naomi’s family line redeemed (4:13–22) [God’s larger redemptive history and plan]