Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionThe account of Ruth, found in the Book of Ruth in the Old Testament, is a profound narrative that highlights themes of loyalty, faith, and divine providence. Ruth's decision to remain with her mother-in-law, Naomi, is a pivotal moment that showcases her character and sets the stage for God's redemptive plan through her lineage. Background Ruth was a Moabite woman, originally from a nation often at odds with Israel. She married Mahlon, one of the sons of Elimelech and Naomi, who had moved to Moab due to a famine in Bethlehem. After the deaths of Elimelech and his two sons, Naomi decided to return to Bethlehem, urging her daughters-in-law to remain in Moab and seek new husbands. Ruth's Decision Ruth's decision is captured in one of the most poignant declarations of loyalty in the Bible. Despite Naomi's insistence that she return to her own people, Ruth chose to stay with Naomi, expressing her commitment in Ruth 1:16-17 : "Do not urge me to leave you or to turn from following you. For where you go, I will go, and where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God. Where you die, I will die, and there I will be buried. May the LORD punish me, and ever so severely, if anything but death separates you and me." This decision was not merely an act of familial loyalty but also a profound spiritual choice. Ruth embraced the God of Israel, leaving behind her native Moabite gods and culture. Her commitment to Naomi and to the God of Israel is a testament to her faith and courage. Consequences of Ruth's Decision Ruth's decision to accompany Naomi to Bethlehem had significant consequences. Upon their arrival, Ruth's diligence and integrity became evident as she gleaned in the fields to provide for Naomi and herself. Her actions caught the attention of Boaz, a relative of Elimelech, who showed her favor and protection. Boaz, recognizing Ruth's loyalty and virtue, eventually took on the role of kinsman-redeemer, marrying her and securing her and Naomi's future. This union was blessed by God, as Ruth became the great-grandmother of King David, placing her in the direct lineage of Jesus Christ, as noted in the genealogy in Matthew 1. Theological Implications Ruth's decision is a powerful example of God's providence and the inclusion of Gentiles in His redemptive plan. Her account illustrates how God can use the faithfulness and decisions of individuals to fulfill His purposes. Ruth's choice to follow Naomi and the God of Israel demonstrates the transformative power of faith and the blessings that come from aligning oneself with God's will. Conclusion Ruth's decision to remain with Naomi and embrace the God of Israel is a testament to her character and faith. Her account is a reminder of the importance of loyalty, faithfulness, and the impact of our decisions in the unfolding of God's divine plan. Nave's Topical Index Ruth 1:16And Ruth said, Entreat me not to leave you, or to return from following after you: for where you go, I will go; and where you lodge, I will lodge: your people shall be my people, and your God my God: Nave's Topical Index 1 Samuel 11:4-7 Library Vehicles of Revelation; Scripture, the Church, Tradition. A Cloud of Witnesses. The Formation of the Old Testament Canon Letter Lxxi. To Lucinius. The Minne-Songs Hebrew Captives; Or, Mordecai and Esther. Melito and the Circumstances which He Records. Job's Faith and Expectation Matt. xxii. 15 Appendix xii. The Baptism of Proselytes Resources What does the Bible say about decision-making? | GotQuestions.orgHow should a Christian view the Roe vs. Wade decision? | GotQuestions.org Is loving God an emotion, a feeling, or a decision? | GotQuestions.org Decision: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Decision: Exhibited in Being on the Lord's Side Decision: Exhibited in Blessedness of Decision: Exhibited in Following God Fully Decision: Exhibited in Keeping the Commandments of God Decision: Exhibited in Loving God Perfectly Decision: Exhibited in Seeking God With the Heart Decision: Exhibited in Serving God Decision: General Scriptures Concerning Decision: Necessary to the Service of God Decision: Opposed to a Divided Service Decision: Opposed to Double-Mindedness Decision: Opposed to Halting Between Two Opinions Decision: Opposed to not Setting the Heart Aright Decision: Opposed to Turning to the Right or Left Valley of Decision: General Scriptures Concerning Related Terms |
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