Ruth 3:5

"I will do everything you say," Ruth answered.

Study Bible

I will do everything you say
This phrase reflects Ruth's obedience and trust in Naomi, her mother-in-law. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, family loyalty and respect for elders were highly valued. Ruth's commitment to follow Naomi's instructions demonstrates her dedication and willingness to embrace the customs and traditions of Naomi's people. This act of submission is significant, as it sets the stage for the unfolding of God's providential plan in Ruth's life. Her obedience can be seen as a type of Christ's submission to the Father's will, as seen in Philippians 2:8, where Jesus humbles Himself and becomes obedient to death on the cross.

Ruth answered
Ruth's response is immediate and affirmative, indicating her readiness to act. This reflects her character as a woman of integrity and faithfulness. Her answer also highlights the theme of redemption that runs throughout the Book of Ruth. By agreeing to Naomi's plan, Ruth is taking a step towards securing her and Naomi's future, which ultimately leads to her becoming part of the lineage of David and, by extension, Jesus Christ. This connection to the genealogy of Christ is significant, as it shows God's inclusive plan of salvation that extends beyond the boundaries of Israel, as Ruth was a Moabite.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ruth
A Moabite widow who has shown great loyalty to her mother-in-law, Naomi. Her actions in this chapter demonstrate her faith and obedience.

2. Naomi
Ruth's mother-in-law, who guides Ruth in seeking security and provision through Boaz, a relative of Naomi's deceased husband.

3. Boaz
A wealthy and influential relative of Naomi's late husband, Elimelech. He is a kinsman-redeemer, a concept rooted in Hebrew law that allows a relative to redeem or marry a widow to preserve the family line.

4. Threshing Floor
The location where Ruth approaches Boaz. It is a place of work and harvest, symbolizing provision and blessing.

5. Bethlehem
The setting of the account, a town in Judah, which is significant as the future birthplace of Jesus Christ.

Teaching Points

Obedience and Trust
Ruth 3:5 demonstrates Ruth's willingness to obey Naomi's instructions, showing trust in her wisdom and God's provision.

God's Provision
The account highlights how God provides for His people through relationships and community, encouraging believers to seek and offer support within the body of Christ.

Faith in Action
Ruth's actions are a testament to her faith, reminding us that faith often requires us to step out of our comfort zones and act.

Role of Mentorship
Naomi's guidance to Ruth underscores the importance of mentorship and discipleship in the Christian life.

Redemption and Hope
The role of Boaz as a kinsman-redeemer points to the ultimate redemption found in Christ, offering hope and restoration.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ruth's response to Naomi in Ruth 3:5 reflect her character and faith? How can we apply this level of obedience in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the concept of a kinsman-redeemer in Ruth's account connect to the redemptive work of Jesus Christ?

3. How can we identify and seek out mentors or be mentors to others in our faith community, as seen in the relationship between Naomi and Ruth?

4. What does the setting of the threshing floor symbolize in terms of God's provision and blessing, and how can we recognize God's provision in our own lives?

5. How does Ruth's account encourage us to take bold steps of faith, and what are some areas in our lives where we need to act in faith today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

The concept of a kinsman-redeemer is also seen in Leviticus 25, where the law provides for the redemption of property and family members.

Ruth's obedience to Naomi parallels the call to honor and obey parental figures, as seen in Ephesians 6.

The account of Ruth and Boaz foreshadows the redemptive work of Christ, as seen in the genealogy of Jesus in Matthew 1.