Ruth 4:13

So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife. And when he had relations with her, the LORD enabled her to conceive, and she gave birth to a son.

Study Bible

So Boaz took Ruth
This phrase marks the culmination of a redemptive journey. Boaz, a man of noble character, acts as the kinsman-redeemer, a concept rooted in the Hebrew word "go'el," which signifies a relative who restores the rights of another and avenges their wrongs. This act of taking Ruth as his wife is not merely a legal transaction but a profound act of love and obedience to God's law, reflecting Christ's redemptive work for humanity.

and she became his wife
The union of Boaz and Ruth is significant both personally and theologically. Historically, marriage was a covenantal relationship, deeply respected and honored. Ruth, a Moabite, being accepted into the Israelite community through marriage, symbolizes the inclusivity of God's grace. This marriage also foreshadows the inclusion of Gentiles into the covenant community through Christ.

And when he had relations with her
This phrase delicately addresses the consummation of their marriage. In the Hebrew context, marital relations were not only for procreation but also for the deepening of the marital bond. The physical union between Boaz and Ruth is a sacred act, blessed by God, and it underscores the sanctity of marriage as ordained by God.

the LORD enabled her to conceive
The conception of a child is attributed directly to the LORD, highlighting the belief in God's sovereignty over life. The Hebrew word used here for "enabled" is "nathan," meaning "to give" or "to grant," emphasizing that children are a gift from God. This divine intervention is a reminder of God's providence and His active role in the unfolding of His redemptive plan.

and she gave birth to a son
The birth of a son to Ruth and Boaz is not only a personal blessing but also a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative. This son, Obed, becomes the grandfather of King David, placing Ruth in the direct lineage of Jesus Christ. This highlights the theme of redemption and God's ability to bring about His purposes through ordinary lives. The birth of Obed is a testament to God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises, serving as an inspiration for believers to trust in God's timing and plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Boaz
A wealthy landowner in Bethlehem, a kinsman-redeemer for Ruth, and a man of noble character who marries Ruth.

2. Ruth
A Moabite widow who shows loyalty to her mother-in-law Naomi and becomes the great-grandmother of King David.

3. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who is actively involved in the lives of His people, enabling Ruth to conceive.

4. Bethlehem
The town where the events take place, significant as the birthplace of King David and later Jesus Christ.

5. Conception and Birth
The miraculous provision of a son, Obed, who becomes part of the lineage of David and Jesus.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Family
God is actively involved in the formation of families and the continuation of His covenant promises.

Faithfulness and Reward
Ruth's faithfulness to Naomi and God is rewarded with a place in the lineage of the Messiah, demonstrating that God honors loyalty and righteousness.

Redemption and Restoration
Boaz as a kinsman-redeemer is a type of Christ, who redeems and restores us, pointing to the ultimate redemption found in Jesus.

Divine Providence
The events in Ruth's life show God's providential care and orchestration of events for His purposes, encouraging trust in His plans.

Legacy of Faith
Ruth's account encourages believers to consider the impact of their faith and actions on future generations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of Boaz as a kinsman-redeemer reflect the work of Christ in our lives?

2. In what ways does Ruth's account encourage us to trust in God's timing and provision?

3. How can we see God's hand in the ordinary events of our lives, as seen in the account of Ruth and Boaz?

4. What lessons can we learn from Ruth's loyalty and faithfulness in our relationships today?

5. How does the inclusion of Ruth, a Moabite, in the lineage of Jesus challenge us to view God's grace and redemption?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 21
The birth of Isaac to Sarah, another instance where God intervenes to enable conception, highlighting God's sovereignty over life.

Matthew 1
The genealogy of Jesus, where Ruth is mentioned, showing her inclusion in the Messianic line.

1 Samuel 16
The anointing of David, Ruth's great-grandson, as king, fulfilling God's plan through her lineage.

Psalm 127
The acknowledgment that children are a heritage from the LORD, emphasizing God's role in the gift of life.