Ruth Act II: Surprising Kindness

Recap: But despite these glimmers of hope, Naomi and Ruth are still in a very precarious position and in profound need.

• What kind of reception will these two poor and vulnerable women receive?

Boaz has heard of Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi (v.11).

• He immediately addresses their two most pressing needs, offering both food and protection in accordance with Torah (vv.8-9).
• Like Naomi, he invokes Yahweh’s blessing on Ruth (v.12).

Boaz responds to Ruth’s loyalty with kindness and generosity (vv.14-18)

• Boaz goes well beyond the letter of the law - exactly as God intended

In chapter 2, Ruth and Naomi find blessing and generosity, but not yet restoration (v.22).

God’s faithfulness finds expression through the faithfulness of Ruth and now Boaz (vv.11, 20).

Discussion Questions:

• The book of Ruth highlights the power of simple kindness. Why do you think we tend to underestimate its power? 
• Can you think of a situation in your life where God’s faithfulness could find expression through your simple kindness and generosity?