Study of Ruth 4:1-6
Meanwhile, Boaz went to the gate and sat down there. Soon the kinsman-redeemer of whom he had spoken came along, and Boaz said, “Come over here, my friend, and sit down.” So he went over and sat down.
Then Boaz took ten of the elders of the city and said, “Sit here,” and they did so.
And he said to the kinsman-redeemer, “Naomi, who has returned from the land of Moab, is selling the piece of land that belonged to our brother Elimelech. I thought I should inform you that you may buy it back in the presence of those seated here and in the presence of the elders of my people. If you want to redeem it, do so. But if you will not redeem it, tell me so I may know, because there is no one but you to redeem it, and I am next after you.”
“I will redeem it,” he replied.
Then Boaz said, “On the day you buy the land from Naomi and also from Ruth the Moabitess, you must also acquire the widow of the deceased in order to raise up the name of the deceased on his inheritance.”
The kinsman-redeemer replied, “I cannot redeem it myself, or I would jeopardize my own inheritance. Take my right of redemption, because I cannot redeem it.”
— Ruth 4:1-6
This passage highlights Boaz’s strategic and honorable approach to resolving the issue of redemption for Naomi and Ruth. Boaz brings the matter to the city gate, a place of public business and legal transactions, and gathers the elders as witnesses to ensure everything is handled transparently.
The kinsman-redeemer initially agrees to purchase the land, but when Boaz mentions Ruth, the kinsman-redeemer pauses to consider how this decision might jeopardize his own inheritance. This moment reveals Boaz’s willingness to take on the responsibility that others might be unwilling to bear, showcasing his selflessness and commitment to doing what is right.
This scene reminds us that God’s plans often unfold through human decisions and actions. Boaz’s integrity and faithfulness reflect how God works through those who are willing to step up and take responsibility, even when it is costly.
Questions
1. Boaz handled the matter of redemption with wisdom, integrity, and transparency. How can we follow his example in making important decisions?
2. The kinsman-redeemer paused to consider how accepting his responsibility might affect his future, while Boaz was willing to step up. How does this challenge us to take on responsibilities that others may avoid?
3. How do Boaz’s actions reflect God’s love and willingness to redeem us through Jesus?
Prayer
Loving Father,
Through Boaz’s actions, we see the beauty of integrity and faithfulness. Teach us to handle our responsibilities with wisdom and transparency, always seeking to honor You in our decisions. Give us the courage to step up and take on roles that may be challenging, trusting that You will equip us for the task. Thank You for redeeming us through Jesus, who willingly bore the cost of our salvation.
All this I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
-
Comments
Post a Comment