Ruth - Week 3

Question 1

The sermon highlights Naomi's bitterness and Ruth's loyalty in Chapter 1. How does understanding these two perspectives from the previous chapter help us appreciate Ruth's actions and mindset as she enters the "field of opportunity" in Chapter 2?

Suggested verses:

• Ruth 1:19-21: Naomi's lament and declaration of being "empty."

• Ruth 1:16-17: Ruth's famous declaration of loyalty to Naomi and to Naomi's God.

• Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust in the Lord with all your heart... he will make your paths straight. (Connects to Ruth's step of faith despite circumstances).

Question 2

Ruth's decision to glean seems like a simple act of survival, yet the sermon emphasises "divine providence." How can we better recognise and trust God's "unseen hand" at work in our own seemingly mundane or practical daily decisions? Share an example from your life where you might now see God's guidance in retrospect.

Suggested verses:

• Proverbs 16:9: In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.

• Psalm 37:23-24: The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.

• Romans 8:28: And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Question 3

The sermon encourages us not to "dismiss the 'small' decisions" because "God works through them!" What "small" decisions or everyday tasks are you currently undertaking that you might reframe as potential "avenues for God's leading"?

Suggested verses:

• Zechariah 4:10a: "Who despises the day of small beginnings?"

• Colossians 3:17: And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

• 1 Corinthians 10:31: So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

Question 4

Boaz is presented as a man deeply rooted in faith and integrity, exemplified by his greeting to his reapers. What specific aspects of Boaz's character in Ruth 2:4-9 most challenge or inspire you to embody Christ-like attributes in your own daily interactions?

Suggested verses:

• Ephesians 4:32: Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

• Philippians 2:3-4: Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

• Matthew 5:16: In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

Question 5

The sermon states that Boaz "extends grace far beyond what the law required." How does Boaz's radical generosity and compassion towards Ruth illustrate the "spirit of God's law" as opposed to merely fulfilling the letter of the law?

Suggested verses:

• Leviticus 19:9-10: Laws regarding gleaning (the "letter of the law").

• Deuteronomy 24:19-21: Further laws regarding gleaning (the "letter of the law").

• Matthew 5:38-42: Jesus' teaching on "An eye for an eye" and going the extra mile (illustrates going beyond the letter of the law).

• Luke 6:32-36: Jesus' teaching on loving enemies and being merciful (reflects the spirit of God's law).

Question 6

The concept of "hesed" (steadfast love, covenant faithfulness) is introduced in relation to Boaz's actions. How does Boaz's treatment of Ruth demonstrate "hesed" as "love in action," and how can we cultivate a deeper understanding and practice of "hesed" in our relationships?

Suggested verses:

• Psalm 107:1: Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love (hesed) endures forever.

• Micah 6:8: He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy (hesed) and to walk humbly with your God.

• John 13:34-35: A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.

Question 7

Ruth, as a "foreigner," widow, and gleaner, represents someone vulnerable and marginalised. The sermon asks, "People’s circumstances should not dictate how you treat them." How can our congregation intentionally seek out and extend grace to those who might be considered "below our social standing" or in vulnerable positions in our community?

Suggested verses:

• James 2:1-4: My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favouritism.

• Proverbs 3:27-28: Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act. Do not say to your neighbor, "Come back tomorrow and I'll give it to you," when you already have it with you.

• Hebrews 13:2: Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.

Question 8

Boaz's "proactive grace" is seen when he commands his men to leave extra grain for Ruth. Reflect on the idea of "unmerited favour." How can recognising the unmerited favour God shows us daily motivate us to go "above and beyond" for others, especially those who may not expect it?

Suggested verses:

• Ephesians 2:8-9: For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.

• Romans 5:8: But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

• 2 Corinthians 9:7: Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.

Question 9

The sermon concludes with the idea of becoming a "Boaz to others." What practical steps can you take this week, in your own "sphere of influence," to be someone who offers a "field of opportunity" and demonstrates God's boundless love and grace to someone in need?

Question 1

The sermon highlights Naomi's bitterness and Ruth's loyalty in Chapter 1. How does understanding these two perspectives from the previous chapter help us appreciate Ruth's actions and mindset as she enters the "field of opportunity" in Chapter 2?

Suggested verses:

• Ruth 1:19-21: Naomi's lament and declaration of being "empty."

• Ruth 1:16-17: Ruth's famous declaration of loyalty to Naomi and to Naomi's God.

• Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust in the Lord with all your heart... he will make your paths straight. (Connects to Ruth's step of faith despite circumstances).

Question 10

The sermon connects Ruth's journey from "surviving to thriving" to stepping out in faith and trusting God's guidance. What area of your life currently feels like a "barren place" or a crossroads, and how might you prayerfully identify and step into your "field of opportunity" this week, trusting God to lead you?

Suggested verses:

• Psalm 23:1-3: The Lord is my shepherd; I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.

• Isaiah 43:18-19: Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.

• Hebrews 11:6: And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.