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Christ as Redeemer

CGG Weekly by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Ruth herself typifies the Christian, called out of this world to begin a new life in preparation for eternal life as part of the Bride of Christ in God's Kingdom. In the narrative of Ruth, Boaz takes up the responsibility to be Ruth's kinsman-redeemer, willing to buy back the land, pay off debts, and take Ruth as his wife, seeing her as a pearl of great price. Likewise, Christ gave all that He had, His perfect, sinless life, for His Bride, paying for the sins of the whole world. Naomi's confidence in Boaz's determination to redeem Ruth reflects the relentless desire of Christ to save and prepare us for His Kingdom, working night and day to present us holy, blameless, and above reproach in His sight. The union of Boaz and Ruth produces Obed, meaning servant or worshipper, symbolizing the spiritual outcome of Christ and a converted Christian as a servant and worshipper of God, the goal of God's harvest of firstfruits.

Christ as Provider

CGG Weekly by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Ruth, as depicted in the Old Testament book bearing her name, serves as a profound symbol of the Christian being redeemed. Just as Ruth diligently gleans in the fields of Boaz, a type of Christ, her actions reflect the dedication required of those under His care. Boaz, lord and master of his domain, mirrors Christ in his complete control and concern for Ruth's safety and well-being, addressing her as "my daughter" and accepting her into his community without regard for her foreign origin. Boaz's instructions to Ruth carry deep significance. He commands her to listen and heed his guidance, ensuring her success under his protection. He forbids her to glean in other fields, emphasizing that his field alone is sufficient to meet her needs and keep her safe among his servants. He directs her to keep her eyes on his field and follow the example of his workers, preventing her from straying or seeking better elsewhere. Boaz assures her that his young men will not harm her, reflecting the care and kindness expected from those under his authority. Finally, he instructs her to drink only the water drawn by his servants, symbolizing the pure and safe sustenance provided through his care. Through these commands, Boaz's concern parallels the care of our Redeemer, Jesus Christ, for His people. His guidance aims to protect, nourish, and sustain us in the right environment for growth and a successful harvest. As God offers only wise and beneficial advice, we are encouraged to remain in His care, listen to His guidance, and fellowship among His servants to endure through the harvest.

Christ as Righteous Judge

CGG Weekly by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

In the story of Ruth, we see her as a type of the Church, reflecting spiritual truths through her actions and relationship with Boaz. Ruth demonstrates covenant loyalty, or chesed, by choosing Boaz, the near kinsman, over a younger man, adhering strictly to the covenant as a widow. Spiritually, she acts contrary to the normal course of this world, prioritizing what is good and right over carnal desires. Boaz reassures her with the words, Do not fear, promising to fulfill all that she requests. He judges her as virtuous, pronouncing her righteous in the spiritual type, akin to the redemption and justification accomplished through Christ. In the morning, Boaz makes it his chief aim to take her as his bride, mirroring how Christ works to bring His Church into the Family of God, judging us worthy to live eternally with Him.

Pentecost and the Book of Ruth

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Although many lessons of the book of Ruth allude to Old Covenant teachings, Ruth prefigures New Covenant principles such as mercy, Christ's care, and acceptance.

Will You Marry Me? (Part Two)

Article by Staff

The story of Boaz and Ruth and the cup of betrothal at Passover ask us to consider: Are we committed to this wonderful relationship with our Fiance?

Patience With Growth

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Fruit maturation takes time. Waiting for the fruit is just part of the story; while we wait, we must also work, including thinning and pruning.

'Being Seen of Them Forty Days'

Sermon by Mark Schindler

On the 40th day on the count to Pentecost, Jesus ascended. The details of His activity before His ascension have not received the focus they should.

Elements of Motivation (Part Four)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

Because we have been bought with an awesome price, we have no right to pervert our lives, but are obligated to look upon our bodies as vessels in His service.