As we close the curtains on the Book of Ruth, my focus will be on the kinsman’s decision not to marry Ruth, which by default meant he was interested in marrying Naomi.
As well as Deuteronomy 23 which explicitly forbids relationship with Moabites, chances are that the Kinsman also saw through the lenses of retributive justice (Ex.20:6).
This doctrine was challenged by Ezekiel (18:2), and Jeremiah (31:29), but it still persevered, raising its ugly head in John 9:2, in the incident of the man born blind, where Jesus dealt with it squarely.
Sadly, it still persists today in the shape of ‘generational curses’ which requires further ‘deliverance’, apart from repentance and acceptance of Jesus as Lord of all.
So, the fate of Elimelek’s family would have hinged on the fact that he left for Moab, and that he allowed his sons to marry Moabite women. This being the case, Ruth was bad news.
But in the spirit of love “which does not seek her own” (1 Cor 13), Boaz stepped-up to the challenge. And in typical fashion, the God who carefully orchestrates everything to “work together for the good of those who love him, who are called according to his purpose” (Rom. 8:28) backed him, raising his seed to sit on the throne of Israel, in the persons of David, and ultimately – our lord Jesus Christ! Hallelujah!!!
So join us this Sunday at our new venue as I crystallise this epic Book.
3pm (light refreshment afterwards)
Church Hall
St John’s Sidcup,
Church Road,
Sidcup, Kent DA14 6BX
(Just behind the Morrisons in Sidcup)
Healingsprings fellowship 