LIFE GROUP: RUTH...If you haven't, you may be surprised at the Blessing you will receive.

History: Customs: practices of the Jewish people during that time; Important that a male heir relative would marry the in law to carry on the family name: Naomi encourages the girls to go back to their home life, but Ruth says she wants to stay with Naomi and wants her God in her life. She is making a stand to commit to her life to Naomi and God, even if it is against the "norm" of her customs. 
Bethlehem is "the house of bread" to Moab, "the trash can". She praises both daughter In laws and tells them to stay where they are.

Food for thought; Ruth is the great grand mother of King David

The prodigal son: leaves something wonderful to go find disparity, only to return with nothing: repeated passage and theme over and over

Chpt 2: God shows his grace in this chapter by delivering and honoring Ruth in her devotion to Naomi by giving a gracious situation that could have been a difficult situation. Ruth is trusting Gods law, and God is rewarding her by providing for her and protecting her in the worst of situations

Chpt 3. What is a kinsman redeemer? Someone in the family who would marry a widow so she could have children and take care of you.
Naomi is bitter prior to this. She changes in this chapter. She begins to think of Ruth. Selfishness leads to destructive behavior and bitterness. Putting others ahead will lead to change of heart. " rest for you" is seeking refuge in the lord.

Including other descendants in lineage is a sign that Christ came for Jews and Gentiles

Chapter 4:Kinsman redeemer is parallel to Christ
Related to us:

• Christ became man
• Take responsibility to take care of the problem for someone else
• Have the price to pay: life and precious blood was the only way to bring us to him
• Shows how relationships with Christ can develop. When Ruth lays down at Boaz's feet ( complete submission). God directs our steps... Can't have that relationship with Christ

What do I need to do to completely surrender to be the companion of Christ?