Ruth 2
BSB1 Now Naomi had a relative on her husband’s side, a prominent man of noble character from the clan of Elimelech, whose name was Boaz. 2 And Ruth the Moabitess said to Naomi, “Please let me go into the fields and glean heads of grain after someone in whose sight I may find favor.” “Go ahead, my daughter,” Naomi replied. 3 So Ruth departed and went out into the field and gleaned after the harvesters. And she happened to come to the part of the field belonging to Boaz, who was from the clan of Elimelech. 4 Just then Boaz arrived from Bethlehem and said to the harvesters, “The LORD be with you.” “The LORD bless you,” they replied. 5 And Boaz asked the foreman of his harvesters, “Whose young woman is this?" 6 The foreman answered, “She is the Moabitess who returned with Naomi from the land of Moab. 7 She has said, ‘Please let me glean and gather among the sheaves after the harvesters.’ So she came out and has continued from morning until now, except that she rested a short time in the shelter." 8 Then Boaz said to Ruth, “Listen, my daughter. Do not go and glean in another field, and do not go away from this place, but stay here close to my servant girls. 9 Let your eyes be on the field they are harvesting, and follow along after these girls. Indeed, I have ordered the young men not to touch you. And when you are thirsty, go and drink from the jars the young men have filled." 10 At this, she fell on her face, bowing low to the ground, and said to him, “Why have I found such favor in your eyes that you should take notice of me, even though I am a foreigner?" 11 Boaz replied, “I have been made fully aware of all you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband, how you left your father and mother and the land of your birth, and how you came to a people you did not know before. 12 May the LORD repay your work, and may you receive a rich reward from the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have taken refuge." 13 “My lord,” she said, “may I continue to find favor in your eyes, for you have comforted and spoken kindly to your maidservant, though I am not like one of your servant girls." 14 At mealtime Boaz said to her, “Come over here; have some bread and dip it into the vinegar sauce.” So she sat down beside the harvesters, and he offered her roasted grain, and she ate and was satisfied and had some left over. 15 When Ruth got up to glean, Boaz ordered his young men, “Even if she gathers among the sheaves, do not insult her. 16 Rather, pull out for her some stalks from the bundles and leave them for her to gather. Do not rebuke her." 17 So Ruth gathered grain in the field until evening. And when she beat out what she had gleaned, it was about an ephah of barley. 18 She picked up the grain and went into the town, where her mother-in-law saw what she had gleaned. And she brought out what she had saved from her meal and gave it to Naomi. 19 Then her mother-in-law asked her, “Where did you glean today, and where did you work? Blessed be the man who noticed you.” So she told her mother-in-law where she had worked. “The name of the man I worked with today is Boaz,” she said. 20 Then Naomi said to her daughter-in-law, “May he be blessed by the LORD, who has not withdrawn His kindness from the living or the dead.” Naomi continued, “The man is a close relative. He is one of our kinsman-redeemers. “ 21 Then Ruth the Moabitess said, “He also told me, ‘Stay with my young men until they have finished gathering all my harvest.’" 22 And Naomi said to her daughter-in-law Ruth, “My daughter, it is good for you to work with his young women, so that nothing will happen to you in another field." 23 So Ruth stayed close to the servant girls of Boaz to glean grain until the barley and wheat harvests were finished. And she lived with her mother-in-law.
Study Notes — Ruth 2
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Ruth 2
- Themes from Ruth 2
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Ruth 2
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Ruth 2 begins with Ruth asking Naomi if she can go to the fields to glean, hoping to find enough food to sustain them. Naomi agrees, and Ruth goes to the field of Boaz, a wealthy relative of her late husband, Elimelech. Boaz notices Ruth and inquires about her, learning that she is the Moabite woman who has been caring for Naomi. He shows her kindness, allowing her to glean in his field and even inviting her to eat with his workers. Ruth returns to Naomi with a large quantity of barley, and Naomi recognizes the Lord's hand of blessing in their lives. The chapter concludes with Ruth continuing to glean in Boaz's field, and Boaz instructing his workers to intentionally leave behind extra grain for her to collect.
Context for the Chapter
This chapter is part of the larger narrative of the book of Ruth, which tells the story of a Moabite woman who becomes part of the family of King David and ultimately, the ancestry of Jesus Christ. The events of this chapter take place during the time of the judges in Israel, a period marked by spiritual decline and moral chaos. Despite this challenging context, the story of Ruth and Boaz shines as a beacon of hope and redemption, highlighting God's faithfulness to those who trust in Him.
Heart Application
As we reflect on this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of trusting in God's providence and care. Like Ruth, we may face uncertain circumstances and difficult challenges, but we can be confident that God is working all things together for our good. May we learn to seek refuge under the wings of the God of Israel, just as Ruth did, and may we experience the kindness and generosity of God's people as we journey through life.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
This chapter tells the story of Ruth, a foreigner who meets a kind and generous man named Boaz. With his help, Ruth is able to provide for herself and her mother-in-law, Naomi. The story shows how God cares for those who trust in Him, even when they are in difficult circumstances. As we read in Ruth 2:12, Boaz blesses Ruth, saying that she has come to seek refuge under the wings of the God of Israel.
Voices from the Church
“The Lord is always working, even when we are not aware of it. He is always guiding, always providing, and always caring for His people.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The story of Ruth is a beautiful example of God's providence and care for those who trust in Him. It reminds us that God is always at work, even in the most mundane and ordinary circumstances.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Ruth's Decision to Glean (Ruth 2:1-3) — Ruth asks Naomi if she can go to the fields to glean, hoping to find enough food to sustain them. Naomi agrees, and Ruth sets out to find a field where she can work.
- Ruth Meets Boaz (Ruth 2:4-7) — Ruth goes to the field of Boaz, a wealthy relative of her late husband, Elimelech. Boaz notices Ruth and inquires about her, learning that she is the Moabite woman who has been caring for Naomi.
- Boaz Shows Kindness to Ruth (Ruth 2:8-13) — Boaz shows remarkable kindness to Ruth, allowing her to glean in his field and even inviting her to eat with his workers. He instructs his workers to intentionally leave behind extra grain for her to collect.
- Ruth Returns to Naomi (Ruth 2:14-23) — Ruth returns to Naomi with a large quantity of barley, and Naomi recognizes the Lord's hand of blessing in their lives. Ruth continues to glean in Boaz's field, and Boaz instructs his workers to treat her with kindness and respect.
- Conclusion (Ruth 2:23) — The chapter concludes with Ruth continuing to glean in Boaz's field, and Boaz's kindness and generosity towards her serving as a reminder of God's providence and care.
Core Doctrines
- Providence
- This chapter teaches that God is actively involved in the lives of His people, guiding and providing for them even in the midst of challenging circumstances. As we see in Ruth 2:12, God's providence is evident in the way that Boaz blesses Ruth and provides for her needs.
- Redemption
- The story of Ruth and Boaz points forward to the coming Messiah, Jesus Christ, who would redeem all people from sin and its consequences. The theme of redemption is central to the book of Ruth and is fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
- Kindness
- This chapter highlights the importance of showing kindness and generosity to others, particularly those who are in need or vulnerable. Boaz's treatment of Ruth serves as a model for how believers should treat others, reflecting God's character and care for His people.
- Faith
- Ruth's decision to seek refuge under the wings of the God of Israel demonstrates her faith and trust in God's provision and care. Her story encourages believers to trust in God's sovereignty and providence, even when circumstances are uncertain or challenging.
Lessons from Ruth 2
- God's Providence — This chapter teaches us that God is actively involved in the lives of His people, guiding and providing for them even in the midst of challenging circumstances.
- Kindness and Generosity — Boaz's treatment of Ruth serves as a model for how believers should treat others, reflecting God's character and care for His people.
- Faith and Trust — Ruth's decision to seek refuge under the wings of the God of Israel demonstrates her faith and trust in God's provision and care.
- Redemption — The story of Ruth and Boaz points forward to the coming Messiah, Jesus Christ, who would redeem all people from sin and its consequences.
- Gratitude and Trust — Naomi's recognition of the Lord's hand of blessing in their lives encourages us to cultivate a similar attitude of trust and gratitude, even in the midst of uncertainty and hardship.
Themes from Ruth 2
- God's Sovereignty — This chapter highlights God's sovereignty and providence in the lives of His people, guiding and providing for them even in the midst of challenging circumstances.
- Redemption and Restoration — The story of Ruth and Boaz points forward to the coming Messiah, Jesus Christ, who would redeem all people from sin and its consequences and restore them to a right relationship with God.
- Faith and Trust — Ruth's decision to seek refuge under the wings of the God of Israel demonstrates her faith and trust in God's provision and care, encouraging believers to trust in God's sovereignty and providence.
- Kindness and Generosity — Boaz's treatment of Ruth serves as a model for how believers should treat others, reflecting God's character and care for His people.
- Gratitude and Thanksgiving — Naomi's recognition of the Lord's hand of blessing in their lives encourages us to cultivate a similar attitude of trust and gratitude, even in the midst of uncertainty and hardship.
Questions for Meditation
- What can we learn from Ruth's decision to go to the fields to glean, and how can we apply this to our own lives?
- How does Boaz's kindness to Ruth reflect God's character, and what can we learn from his example?
- What does Ruth's story teach us about God's providence and care, and how can we trust in His sovereignty in our own lives?
- How does the theme of redemption in this chapter point forward to the coming Messiah, Jesus Christ?
- What can we learn from Naomi's recognition of the Lord's hand of blessing in their lives, and how can we cultivate a similar attitude of trust and gratitude?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Ruth's Decision to Glean (Ruth 2:1-3)
| 2:1 | Ruth asks Naomi if she can go to the fields to glean, hoping to find enough food to sustain them. |
| 2:2 | Naomi agrees, and Ruth sets out to find a field where she can work. |
| 2:3 | Ruth goes to the field of Boaz, a wealthy relative of her late husband, Elimelech. |
2. Ruth Meets Boaz (Ruth 2:4-7)
| 2:4 | Boaz notices Ruth and inquires about her, learning that she is the Moabite woman who has been caring for Naomi. |
| 2:5 | Boaz shows remarkable kindness to Ruth, allowing her to glean in his field and even inviting her to eat with his workers. |
| 2:6 | Boaz instructs his workers to intentionally leave behind extra grain for her to collect. |
| 2:7 | Ruth is grateful for Boaz's kindness and generosity. |
3. Boaz Shows Kindness to Ruth (Ruth 2:8-13)
| 2:8 | Boaz invites Ruth to eat with his workers and provides her with food and drink. |
| 2:9 | Boaz instructs his workers to treat Ruth with kindness and respect. |
| 2:10 | Ruth is amazed by Boaz's kindness and generosity, and she asks why he is treating her so well. |
| 2:11 | Boaz explains that he has heard about Ruth's kindness to Naomi and her decision to seek refuge under the wings of the God of Israel. |
| 2:12 | Boaz blesses Ruth, saying that she has come to seek refuge under the wings of the God of Israel. |
| 2:13 | Ruth is grateful for Boaz's blessing and promises to continue working in his field. |
4. Ruth Returns to Naomi (Ruth 2:14-23)
| 2:14 | Ruth returns to Naomi with a large quantity of barley, and Naomi recognizes the Lord's hand of blessing in their lives. |
| 2:15 | Naomi is grateful for Boaz's kindness and generosity, and she encourages Ruth to continue working in his field. |
| 2:16 | Boaz instructs his workers to treat Ruth with kindness and respect, and to intentionally leave behind extra grain for her to collect. |
| 2:17 | Ruth continues to glean in Boaz's field, and she gathers a large quantity of barley. |
| 2:18 | Naomi is amazed by the amount of barley that Ruth has gathered, and she recognizes the Lord's hand of blessing in their lives. |
| 2:19 | Naomi asks Ruth about her experience in the field, and Ruth tells her about Boaz's kindness and generosity. |
| 2:20 | Naomi praises the Lord for His kindness and generosity, and she encourages Ruth to continue working in Boaz's field. |
| 2:21 | Ruth continues to glean in Boaz's field, and she experiences the Lord's blessing and provision. |
| 2:22 | Naomi recognizes the Lord's hand of blessing in their lives, and she encourages Ruth to trust in God's sovereignty and providence. |
| 2:23 | Ruth continues to work in Boaz's field, and she experiences the Lord's blessing and provision. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Ruth's decision to go to the fields to glean?
Ruth's decision to go to the fields to glean demonstrates her initiative and resourcefulness, as well as her trust in God's provision and care. As we see in Ruth 2:2, Naomi agrees to let Ruth go, and Ruth sets out to find a field where she can work.
How does Boaz's kindness to Ruth reflect God's character?
Boaz's kindness to Ruth reflects God's character by demonstrating His care and provision for those in need. As we see in Ruth 2:12, Boaz blesses Ruth, saying that she has come to seek refuge under the wings of the God of Israel.
What does Ruth's story teach us about God's providence and care?
Ruth's story teaches us that God is actively involved in the lives of His people, guiding and providing for them even in the midst of challenging circumstances. As we see in Ruth 2:20, Naomi recognizes the Lord's hand of blessing in their lives, and she encourages Ruth to trust in God's sovereignty and providence.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ruth 2:1 → Leviticus 19:9-10 | The practice of gleaning, as seen in Ruth 2:1, is rooted in the biblical principle of leaving behind grain for the poor and the foreigner, as commanded in Leviticus 19:9-10. |
| 2 | Ruth 2:12 → Psalm 36:7 | The image of seeking refuge under the wings of the God of Israel, as seen in Ruth 2:12, is reminiscent of Psalm 36:7, which describes God's wings as a place of refuge and protection. |
| 3 | Ruth 2:20 → Deuteronomy 24:19 | The practice of leaving behind grain for the poor, as seen in Ruth 2:20, is also rooted in the biblical principle of caring for the needy, as commanded in Deuteronomy 24:19. |
| 4 | Ruth 2:1 → Matthew 1:5 | The story of Ruth, as seen in Ruth 2:1, is part of the larger narrative of the Bible, which ultimately points to the coming of Jesus Christ, as seen in Matthew 1:5. |
| 5 | Ruth 2:12 → Luke 3:32 | The story of Ruth and Boaz, as seen in Ruth 2:12, is part of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, as seen in Luke 3:32. |
| 6 | Ruth 2:1 → John 1:1 | The theme of God's providence and care, as seen in Ruth 2:1, is reminiscent of the biblical theme of God's sovereignty and care, as seen in John 1:1. |
| 7 | Ruth 2:20 → Romans 8:28 | The recognition of God's hand of blessing in Ruth 2:20 is reminiscent of the biblical theme of God's sovereignty and care, as seen in Romans 8:28. |
| 8 | Ruth 2:12 → Hebrews 13:2 | The image of seeking refuge under the wings of the God of Israel, as seen in Ruth 2:12, is reminiscent of the biblical theme of hospitality and care for the stranger, as seen in Hebrews 13:2. |
| 9 | Ruth 2:1 → 1 Peter 2:11 | The theme of God's providence and care, as seen in Ruth 2:1, is reminiscent of the biblical theme of God's sovereignty and care, as seen in 1 Peter 2:11. |
| 10 | Ruth 2:20 → Revelation 21:4 | The recognition of God's hand of blessing in Ruth 2:20 is reminiscent of the biblical theme of God's ultimate triumph and redemption, as seen in Revelation 21:4. |
Sermons on Ruth 2
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
How to Find Your Place by Derek Prince | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of finding and fulfilling the good works that God has prepared for each individual. He contrasts two different approaches take |
|
(Through the Bible) Ruth by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of holding onto something that is no longer rightfully ours. He refers to the book of Revelation, where a scroll with seven seals |
|
(The Book of Ruth) 3. Ruth - the Gleaner in the Field by Roy Hession | In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the story of Ruth and draws parallels to the lives of believers. He emphasizes that believers have sold and lost their inheritance and bles |
|
|
(The Book of Ruth) 4. Boaz and the Nearer Kinsman by Roy Hession | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the power of Jesus' blood to redeem and transform our lives. He emphasizes that Jesus can make something beautiful out of our brokenness and |
|
Yosemite Bible Conference 1991-12 Posessing Your Possessions by William MacDonald | In this sermon, the speaker shares the story of a man named Dave and his family who went through a series of trials and hardships. Despite their difficulties, the speaker emphasize |
|
Hebrews 4:14 by Carl Armerding | In this sermon, the speaker expresses gratitude to God for saving and bringing them into a wonderful fellowship. They emphasize the privilege of consciously enjoying God's presence |
|
Marriage Series #1 - Aquila & Priscilla by Don McClure | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of investing one's life into others and seeing the kingdom of heaven increase. He shares a personal story about his grandson a |
|
The Cost of Revival by William McCrea | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the love of Jesus and the importance of holding onto Him. He acknowledges that many people may feel unloved, burdened by sin, and neglected |
|
Ruth - Part 4 by John McGregor | John McGregor emphasizes the transformative journey of Ruth in the Book of Ruth, highlighting her invitation from Boaz, which symbolizes God's invitation to all. He discusses the c |
|
|
Marriage Series #4 - Ruth & Boaz by Don McClure | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the book of Ruth and its significance in the context of the spiritual state of the children of Israel during that time. The book portrays a c |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Ruth 2
In this chapter, we see the providence of God guiding the life of Ruth, a foreigner, as she meets Boaz, a relative of her late husband. Boaz shows remarkable kindness to Ruth, allowing her to glean in his field and even inviting her to eat with his workers. This kindness is a reflection of God's character and care for His people. As Matthew Henry notes, 'The Lord is always working, even when we are not aware of it. He is always guiding, always providing, and always caring for His people.' The story of Ruth and Boaz points forward to the coming Messiah, Jesus Christ, who would redeem all people from sin and its consequences. As we reflect on this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of trusting in God's providence and care, and of showing kindness and generosity to others, particularly those who are in need or vulnerable. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
Ruth's Initiative
Ruth takes the initiative to go to the fields to glean, demonstrating her resourcefulness and determination to provide for herself and Naomi. This quality is admirable and reflects her trust in God's provision.
Boaz's Kindness
Boaz shows remarkable kindness to Ruth, allowing her to glean in his field and even inviting her to eat with his workers. This kindness is a reflection of God's character and sets an example for how believers should treat others.
God's Providence
Throughout the chapter, we see God's providence at work, guiding the events of Ruth's life and bringing her into contact with Boaz. This highlights the reality of God's sovereign care over the lives of His people.