First Public Message on Ruth

Yesterday I had the privilege of giving my first message on the book of Ruth. Pastor Stonehouse had asked if I would share something from my study at Sunday School. So, after much prayer and re-reading of my notes, I got something together. I called the message "Hast Thou Considered My Servant Ruth?" It was an encouragement to all to press on with Bible study and a personal testimony and lesson from the book of Ruth that the Lord had shown me.

Kindness to Whom?

Of the many interesting statements in Ruth, one that is particularly so occurs in chapter three.

"And he said, Blessed be thou of the LORD, my daughter: for thou hast showed more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning, inasmuch as thou followedst not young men, whether poor or rich." (Ruth 3:10)

Here, Boaz is commending Ruth. As one reads this, it may appear at first glance to be referring to kindness shown to Boaz. The popular interpretation of this story is that of a romantic love interest between the two. With this in view, it would seem that Boaz is flattered at Ruth's attention and request, and is expressing his wish that the Lord would bless her for it.

Is this really the case? Is this a proper interpretation of this passage? It is beyond the intended scope of this entry to do a thorough and in depth study to give a definitive answer. However, let us briefly bring up another option which may bring another idea to light.

As we examine Ruth's life, we see a lady who was devoted with all her heart to her mother-in-law and to the Lord. She is continually acting in a way that will benefit her mother-in-law. She asks permission to go to glean. She saves some of what Boaz provides for her, and takes it back to her mother-in-law. When her mother-in-law tells her what she should do in regard to Boaz, it is recorded that she "went down unto the floor, and did according to all that her mother-in-law bade her."

Let me suggest that Ruth went to the threshingfloor primarily in submission to Naomi's request. Let me also suggest that Ruth's kindness was that she considered Naomi and Naomi's family and family name, over and above her own desires. Boaz himself recognizes the unusual nature that Ruth had displayed "inasmuch as thou followedst not young men, whether poor or rich."

So, I put this out for consideration: was Ruth commended for actions to an infatuated Boaz, or was he commending her for the selfless life he had made previous mention of in his barley fields? There is the question. The answer may color the way we view the entire book of Ruth. What do you think?