Ruth 3 is one of the most interesting chapters in the Old Testament. So many questions arise as we read about the strange interactions and behavior of Naomi, Ruth and Boaz. Join Pastor Jim for this fascinating study of the ancient social and cultural practices found in this chapter and what we can learn about the kind of love and faithfulness God honors, and which also brings honor to God.
Sermon Notes
1. The God of the Bible is in the redemption business.
“Unbounded trust in the merciful love of the redeeming God deals a mortal blow to skepticism, cynicism, self-condemnation, and despair. It is our decisive YES to Christ’s command ‘Trust in God and trust in me.’”
Brennan Manning
2. Faith and action go hand in hand.
3. Biblical relationships reflect a sacred faithfulness.
“We believe the gospel. For us this means that sacrificial love is not just our duty but our delight.”
David Platt Radical Together
“Dear Christian: Make a commitment to your local church. Be a host rather than a guest. Don’t just consume. Serve. Engage. Give. Pray. Love.”
Eugene Cho
Discussion Questions
- Read the passage together: Before today’s sermon, what did you already know or believe about this passage? Did anything in your understanding shift after hearing the message?
- Challenge and Reflection: Was there a part of today’s message that was particularly challenging or surprising for you? Why?
- Unpacking the Message: Pick a quote from today’s sermon notes. Discuss what it means to you.
- Personal Impact: What’s one specific way you feel called to change or grow after hearing this message?
- Practical Application: What’s one step you can take this week to put today’s message into practice?
- Connecting Scripture: Are there other Bible passages or stories this message reminds you of? How do they expand or confirm this teaching?
- Gratitude: What aspect of God’s character stood out to you in today’s message? How does it inspire praise or gratitude?
- Pray the Scripture: After hearing the message, is there a specific area where you feel led to pray? How can we pray for one another in light of today’s teaching?