Category: Bible Studies

Bible Studies

“Introduction” Let Freedom Ring: the book of Galatians

Loring Schultz

Read: Galatians 1:1-10 NLT – Greetings from Paul – This letter is – Bible Gateway

“This letter is from Paul, an apostle. I was not appointed by any group of people or any human authority, but by Jesus Christ himself and by God the Father, who raised Jesus from the dead.” Galatians 1:1 NLT

Photo by James Coleman on Unsplash

This week in Biblical Insights we begin a new series in the New Testament book of Galatians. Our opening verse tells us the apostle Paul authored this book which was actually a letter written to the churches in Galatia. These were churches Paul founded on his first missionary journey in cities throughout ancient Asia Minor. This is the only epistle Paul wrote addressing more than one city. Here he is addressing those in the Galatia region. The main theme in Paul’s letter to the Galatians is ‘justification by faith,’ which Paul preached when establishing these churches. There are no works involved for one to come to Christ but to accept His free gift of salvation. The purpose for writing to the Galatian churches was to correct false teaching that was being spread after Paul had left to continue his journey. These false teachers were agitators who did not like Paul and attacked him personally as not being qualified to preach let alone refer to himself as an apostle. They accused Paul of preaching a false gospel when he preach salvation by faith alone. The Judaizers, as they were called, were adding works and Jewish traditions to faith, and therefore distorting the gospel message of ‘salvation by grace through faith alone.’

The book of Galatians is sometimes referred to as the ‘Magna Charta of Christian Liberty’ or ‘Declaration of Independence of Christian liberty.’ Martin Luther called Galatians his ‘Catherine von Bora’ after his wife. He loved her and he loved the book of Galatians and said, “I am married to it,” as Luther was married to his wife. The central truth in the book is again, ‘man is justified by faith in Jesus Christ,’ nothing else is needed. This was the core of Luther’s ministry as well.

It was important to Paul but vital for the churches to recognize Paul’s apostleship. He claimed to be a direct appointee by Jesus Christ and God the Father. Paul’s message was serious, simple and to the point but he would speak it with authority. Paul needed to seen as a true apostle with  apostolic authority. His enemies did all they could to cast doubt on his credentials. So, Paul starts out by saying, “I was not appointed by any group of people or any human authority, but by Jesus Christ himself and by God the Father, who raised Jesus from the dead.” (Gal.1:1 nlt) Paul then gives them his greeting which will become his custom in the rest of his letters, “May God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.” (Gal.1:2 nlt) After his initial greetings Paul jumps right into the gospel message stating Jesus gave up His life voluntarily according to Father’s plan to save us from our sins.

The Galatian churches started well but it wasn’t long before Paul had heard how quickly how the Judaizers were persuading them to turn away from the true gospel. The gospel of Jesus Christ is Good News as Paul preached. What the people in Galatia were now being taught in Paul’s absence, Paul says, “is not the Good News at all. You are being fooled by those who deliberately twist the truth concerning Christ.” (Gal.1:7 nlt) The Judaizers were deliberately twisting or perverting the gospel by adding traditions of the law to it. Part of what was taught was a Christian needed to be circumcised in the Jewish tradition. They reasoned Jesus was a Jew and Christianity has its root in the Jewish religion of the Old Testament. This distorts the simple message of belief in Jesus by faith as all that is needed. Jesus Himself said to Nicodemus, “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” (Jn.3:16 nlt) Jesus did not say anything else needed to be added, including good works to earn your way to heaven. No, only simple faith in Christ as your savior is all that is required.

This was such a serious issue for the churches in Galatia and for churches today in 2026 that Paul boldly states with authority, “Let God’s curse fall on anyone, including us or even an angel from heaven, who preaches a different kind of Good News than the one we preached to you.” (Gal.1:8 nlt) There is no other gospel. There is no other way. So many churches today are falling into the trap the early church fell into. People feel there needs to be something else, or good works to get them to heaven. Some are beginning to as we say ‘coexist’ and accept all religions as a way to get to heaven. You have had it said, ‘all roads lead to heaven.’ Well, what does Paul, who was appointed by Jesus as an apostle say? “I say again what we have said before: If anyone preaches any other Good News than the one you welcomed, let that person be cursed.” (Gal.1:9 nlt)

Stone church marked “ΕΚΚΛΗΣΙΑ ΓΑΛΑΤΑΣ” amid rolling hills and trees

This is serious business. If you believe the Bible is God’s Word you cannot possibly accept any other form of salvation. If you deny any part of the Bible referring to salvation or you add something, such as good deeds, or aligning with other religions of the world you are as Paul says of those who preach such things, ‘let that person be cursed.’ The word ‘cursed’ actually means ‘doomed to destruction.’ This all sounds frightening and it should, but beneath it all is the Good News Paul preaches about the love of God who sent His Son for us. Jesus Christ  provided the way for us, the only way.

Next week Paul explains his call to apostleship………

Bible Studies

The Story of Ruth the Moabitess: Part 6      

Loring Schultz

Read: Ruth 4:13-22 NLT – The Descendants of Boaz – So Boaz took – Bible Gateway

“This is the genealogical record of their ancestor Perez: Perez was the father of Hezron. Hezron was the father of Ram. Ram was the father of Amminadab. Amminadab was the father of Nahshon. Nahshon was the father of Salmon. Salmon was the father of Boaz. Boaz was the father of Obed. Obed was the father of Jesse. Jesse was the father of David.” Ruth 4:18-22 NLT

Smiling couple holding a laughing baby in a rustic stone home

When we began our look at the book of Ruth six weeks ago it was noted that the story of Ruth is much more than her story. Ruth is an Old Testament book having three major theological themes. God’s redemption plan is for both Jews and Gentiles. God’s sovereignty and providential care, and Boaz, Ruth’s kinsman redeemer, as a type of Christ. Redemption being the key word is found over twenty times in various forms throughout the book. Boaz was Ruth’s kinsman redeemer who married her and restored the land of her late husband and preserved the family line in her husband’s name. God not only provided for Ruth but also for her mother-in-law, Naomi, through Boaz. But the most important underlying theme of the book is God’s redemption plan of salvation that came through His Son Jesus, a descendant of Ruth and Boaz.

“So Boaz took Ruth into his home, and she became his wife. When he slept with her, the LORD enabled her to become pregnant, and she gave birth to a son.” (Ruth 4:13 nlt) The Lord bless Ruth and Boaz for their faithfulness to Him. Ruth became a convert and trusted in the true God of Israel and Boaz fulfilled his obligation of Ruth’s kinsman redeemer. A son was born to them. It was a happy beginning for them both and a happy ending for Naomi. It was also noted in the beginning of our study that Naomi could be considered the main character. She is just as important in this story as Ruth and Boaz. The theological theme of God’s sovereignty and providential care is seen in Naomi’s well-being. The family name will go on, the land was restored, and there will be grandchildren to help support Naomi in her old age. In returning to Bethlehem after her stay in Moab Naomi said to her friends, “I went away full, but the LORD has brought me home empty.” (Ruth 1:21 nlt) The Lord God watched over her and now she is full once again. The Lord brought her from emptiness to fullness.

Concerning the child born the women said, “May he restore your youth and care for you in your old age. For he is the son of your daughter-in-law who loves you and has been better to you than seven sons!” (Ruth 4:15 nlt) The women named him Obed which means ‘a servant who worships.’ This is the only time in Scripture where someone other than the parents or family have ever named a child. Obed became the father of Jesse, and Jesse became the father of King David. Scripture is clear that the Messiah would be a descendant of King David and would be called the Son of David.

God had this all planned in His sovereignty. God uses those who He chooses for His own purposes. There are both Jews and Gentiles listed in the genealogy of the Messiah. This shows salvation is open to all people who accept Christ as savior. Jesus came to redeem all people, both Jew and Gentile. (Gentile meaning anyone not Jewish) Jesus came for all people. In God’s kingdom there will be representatives from every nation, of every language, and every ethnicity and race. This is part of the story of Ruth the Moabitess, born as a gentile woman in a heathen nation, Ruth went on to trust God having faith in Him proving salvation is open to all people.

Finally, Boaz is seen as a type of Christ in our story. Boaz redeemed Ruth. She became his bride and married her. Jesus redeems those who accept Him as savior and Christians become the bride of Christ. And there will be a day when the wedding will take place. “Let us be glad and rejoice and let us give honor to him. For the time has come for the wedding feast of the Lamb, and his bride has prepared herself. She has been given the finest of pure white linen to wear. For the fine linen represents the good deeds of God’s holy people.” (Rev.19:7-8 nlt)

There are many things to glean from the book of Ruth, the story of Ruth the Moabitess. Just as Ruth gleaned the grain that had fallen there is plenty for us to feast on when we read the Bible but let us pay attention to what is intentionally pulled out as Boaz’s men pulled out extra grain for Ruth. The entire Bible is about Jesus Christ and God’s plan of redemption. Every book has additional grain to be pulled out and noticed about Christ. May the book of Ruth be good training ground for us to see Christ as we read all of Scripture.

Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko on Pexels.com
Bible Studies

The Story of Ruth the Moabites: Part 5

Loring Schultz

Read: Ruth 3:14 – 4:12 NLT – So Ruth lay at Boaz’s feet until the – Bible Gateway

“Then Naomi said to her, ‘Just be patient, my daughter, until we hear what happens. The man won’t rest until he has settled things today.’” Ruth 3:18 NLT

Last week in Biblical Insights Ruth followed her mother-in-law’s instruction to approach Boaz and request he marry her and be her kinsman-redeemer through the Levirate law. Ruth had gone to where Boaz had laid down for the night after the celebration of the completion of the barley harvest. Ruth laid herself down at his feet and removed the cover from his feet. “After Boaz had finished eating and drinking and was in good spirits, he lay down at the far end of the pile of grain and went to sleep. Then Ruth came quietly, uncovered his feet, and lay down.” (Ruth 3:7 nlt) As Boaz woke up around midnight he noticed a woman at his feet and asks who it was. ‘“I am your servant Ruth,’ she replied. ‘Spread the corner of your covering over me, for you are my family redeemer.’” (Ruth 3:9 nlt) (see last week’s Biblical Insights ‘The Story of Ruth….part 4’ for further explanation and the exchange between Ruth and Boaz)

Boaz is willing to do this as he is aware of the situation and has noticed Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi along with the respect she has earned from all who have watched her. He told her he would take of it first thing in the morning. “So Ruth lay at Boaz’s feet until the morning, but she got up before it was light enough for people to recognize each other. For Boaz had said, ‘No one must know that a woman was here at the threshing floor.’” (Ruth 3:14 nlt) Rising early in the morning was wise so she could leave before the morning light and anyone finding out that she was there. Now again, nothing immoral happen, but Boaz did not want any misunderstanding or gossip going around about her as this was an innocent visit. Boaz then went the extra mile and scooped out six portions of barley for her to take back to her mother-in-law. Arriving back home Naomi asked her what had happened and Ruth told her everything. Naomi knowing what kind of man Boaz was knew the matter would be settled quickly. Boaz would not procrastinate and let it drag on. It happens so often in our day when important matters are left undone because we do not see the urgency of getting them done. Boaz knew this was important and he had an obligation to see to it quickly. He did not wait.

Boaz went right into town and sat at the city gate. The gate was not only the main entrance way into the city but it functioned as the place where legal transactions and commercial business took place. Soon Boaz noticed the closer family redeemer approaching and he called him over. “Then Boaz called ten leaders from the town and asked them to sit as witnesses.” (Ruth 4:2 nlt) Boaz explained the situation to him concerning Naomi needing to sell the land that was in her late husband’s name for financial reasons. The man had the first right as he was closest kin. Boaz explained that if he (the closer relative) did not purchase it that he would. The man said he would redeem it, but there was more to the purchase.

“Then Boaz told him, ‘Of course, your purchase of the land from Naomi also requires that you marry Ruth, the Moabite widow. That way she can have children who will carry on her husband’s name and keep the land in the family.’” (Ruth 4:5 nlt) This was something the man would not or could not do. He may have already been married, which would have caused a problem, and furthermore it made cause complications in his own inheritance passed down to his children, The man declined saying, “Then I can’t redeem it, because this might endanger my own estate. You redeem the land; I cannot do it.” (Ruth 4:6 nlt)

The transaction is about to be made official. We have come a long way in binding legal transactions through paper trails and endorsing signatures, we even have electronic signing in our day, but not back then. “Now in those days it was the custom in Israel for anyone transferring a right of purchase to remove his sandal and hand it to the other party. This publicly validated the transaction.” (Ruth 4:7 nlt) So, the man took of his sandal and handed to Boaz. The transaction was completed and was now official.

People gathered outside a stone gate labeled BETHLEHEM, with camels nearby

Boaz then said to the ten official witnesses and those standing around that he purchased all the property belonging to Elimelech and his sons Kilion, and Mahlon. “And with the land I have acquired Ruth, the Moabite widow of Mahlon, to be my wife. This way she can have a son to carry on the family name of her dead husband and to inherit the family property here in his hometown. You are all witnesses today.” (Ruth 4:10 nlt) The Levirate law of marriage was enacted. Ruth would have a husband. The family name and inheritance of her late husband, Mahlon, would continue in the birth of her first son. And all the people around rejoiced asked for blessings on their home and for Ruth to be as fruitful as Rachel and Leah. There is much more in this story for us to glean from. It is not just a happy ending of a family name restored, a widow married and Naomi being full again as we will see next week as we conclude with the Story of Ruth the Moabites.

Bible Studies

The Story of Ruth the Moabitess: Part 4      

Loring Schultz

Read: Ruth 3:1-13 NLT – Ruth at the Threshing Floor – One day – Bible Gateway

“One day Naomi said to Ruth, ‘My daughter, it’s time that I found a permanent home for you, so that you will be provided for.’” Ruth 3:1 NLT

Chapter 3 of the book of Ruth begins with Naomi fulfilling an obligation to find security in marriage for Ruth. In chapter 1 as both Ruth and her sister-in-law were going to Bethlehem with Naomi, Naomi encouraged them to back to their home and find security, “May the LORD bless you with the security of another marriage.” (Ruth 1:9 nlt) Ruth’s sister-in-law went back but Ruth promised to stay with Naomi and go to Bethlehem. Naomi now says to Ruth, “My daughter, it’s time that I found a permanent home for you, so that you will be provided for.” (Ruth 3:1 nlt) The stage is set.

Boaz had proven he was a protector of Ruth in caring for her while she was working in his fields. The levirate custom of marriage is in play here. One who is considered a redeemer, a close relative, would protect a family in need as well as marrying the widow of the deceased to continue the family name. It would make sense to approach Boaz because of his past deeds and concern for Ruth and Naomi. Although Boaz was indeed one of their closest relatives there was one closer, but it made perfect sense to consider Boaz.

Naomi instructs Ruth to get dressed in her finest clothes, put on perfume as if preparing for a wedding, which was the case. She tells her to go to the threshing floor. The harvest season is ending, the final threshing is being done, and the grain is being stockpiled. Ruth is told to not make herself known but to notice where Boaz lays himself down after the festive meal. Boaz, as other landowners, would sleep nearby their harvest until they are secured to prevent robbery during the night.

Ruth is to wait for this moment of opportunity seeing where he lays down and go uncover his feet. “So she went down to the threshing floor that night and followed the instructions of her mother-in-law.” (Ruth 3:6 nlt) This may seemed a little strange in our time, even look and sound like immorally, but Naomi and Ruth had nothing but the purist of motives. Scripture says after Boaz finished eating and drinking after the exhausting day he laid down on the grain and fell asleep. Then Ruth went and uncovered his feet and laid down herself. One thought as to why Ruth uncover his feet is this; think of yourself when part of covers during the night move away from you, you feel it and wake up. Boaz felt the cool breeze and woke up and found a woman lying at his feet. ‘“Who are you?’ he asked. ‘I am your servant Ruth,’ she replied. ‘Spread the corner of your covering over me, for you are my family redeemer.”’ (Ruth 1:9 nlt)

The spreading of a garment over a woman was a token of marriage. Some still practice this today in the Arab world. Ruth was actually proposing marriage to Boaz through the Levirate custom. She identifies herself  as a humble servant and simply relates to the fact she is widow and asks Boaz to marry her. Yes, strange in our day, but acceptable and proper during that time. Boaz being a redeemer relative could have asked her, but he was a generation older than Ruth and would not have done that. Boaz commends her for her action and loyalty. She did not go after younger men, or refused to marry again into the family, but chose to do what was right and honoring to the God she now serves, the Lord God.

Boaz assures Ruth of his intentions and would do what she asks for. He knows of the good reputation she has among others and he has seen it for himself. Unfortunately there is an important piece of business that must be done for the matter to be right. “Now don’t worry about a thing, my daughter. I will do what is necessary, for everyone in town knows you are a virtuous woman. But while it is true that I am one of your family redeemers, there is another man who is more closely related to you than I am.” (Ruth 3:11-12 nlt) The very closes relative in the family is the one to redeem. We do not know Boaz’s relation to Naomi’s husband exactly. It is thought Elimelech was Boaz’s uncle. The closer relative to Naomi may be another one of Elimelech’s brothers or Boaz’s older brother. Boaz wants to be sure to do it the right way.

Woman covering a sleeping man with a blanket in a rustic shelter

Boaz says he would take of this the first thing in the morning. He tells her to stay until morning. (at his feet, there is nothing immoral here, remember Ruth has nothing but the purist motives) If the other relative agrees to marry her, Ruth should do so, but if not, Boaz promises to redeem and marry her ‘as surely as the Lord lives,’ the strongest vow an Israelite can make. Next week the matter is settled.

Bible Studies

The Story of Ruth the Moabitess: Part 3

Loring Schultz

Read: Ruth 2:10-23 NLT – Ruth fell at his feet and thanked him – Bible Gateway

‘“I hope I continue to please you, sir,’ she replied. ‘You have comforted me by speaking so kindly to me, even though I am not one of your workers.’” Ruth 2:13 NLT

Woman carrying a basket of wheat through a harvested field

The key word throughout the book of Ruth is ‘redemption.’ This week in Biblical Insights we begin to see this unfold in Boaz’s concern for Naomi and his treatment of Ruth. Ruth was extremely thankful for Boaz’s generosity in allowing her to glean only in his field and not go anywhere else. She was guaranteed protection during the workday with no harassment, and plenty of water in the heat of the day. Ruth may not have understood the grace that she was receiving or why she was receiving it since she is foreigner. But Boaz understands that Ruth has sought the protection of the Lord God as he says to her, “May the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge, reward you fully for what you have done.” (Ruth 2:12 nlt)

Boaz explains to Ruth how he heard about the kindness she has shown to her mother-in-law Naomi, and how Ruth left her family and homeland to live in a strange land. Boaz heard because, no doubt, people were talking. People noticed, and people were impressed. It was a big sacrifice for Ruth, but she is already being rewarded for her faithfulness to Naomi and her faith in God. Ruth humbly continues her thanks to Boaz, ‘“I hope I continue to please you, sir,’ she replied. ‘You have comforted me by speaking so kindly to me, even though I am not one of your workers.’” (Ruth 2:13 nlt) Ruth was being treated as though she belonged there, and in reality by God’s will, she did belong there. At times we may feel a sense of not belonging, but over time no matter how difficult it is we find out it was God’s leading and we did and do belong. Ruth is starting to feel the same way.

Boaz then invited Ruth to the mid-day meal break with his workers. Ruth ate her fill, careful not to overeat leaving some leftover to bring home to Naomi. Back out in the fields, Boaz extended extra permission above the law in gleaning. Normally, gleaning was allowed after the women tied the bundle of sheaves. But here, Boaz tells his workers to allow her to glean right among the sheaves. In fact Boaz says, “And pull out some heads of barley from the bundles and drop them on purpose for her. Let her pick them up, and don’t give her a hard time!” (Ruth 2:16 nlt) Boaz’s kindness paid off for Ruth. “So Ruth gathered barley there all day, and when she beat out the grain that evening, it filled an entire basket.” (Ruth 2:17 nlt) After a hard days work, you had to then thresh or beat out the grain using a club or stick to separate the kernels from the husks, chaff, and stalks. The end result that first day was a filled basket, a large amount for one day. It would enough food for both Naomi and Ruth for approximately ten days.

Arriving back in town Ruth shows her mother-in-law the fruits of her labor and gives her the leftover roasted grain from her afternoon meal. Naomi recognizes this is an extra-large amount of grain perhaps with the help of a special favor. She asks, “Where did you gather all this grain today? Where did you work? May the LORD bless the one who helped you!” (Ruth 2:19 nlt) Ruth told her his name was Boaz. You can only imagine Naomi’s feelings when she heard it was Boaz, the closest relative they had. Naomi refers to him as ‘one of our family redeemers.’ A family redeemer in those days was one who would protect a family in need especially after the death of a loved one. By rights they would buy their land to keep the name in the family and care for those relatives who remained. The news only gets better for both of them. “Then Ruth said, ‘What’s more, Boaz even told me to come back and stay with his harvesters until the entire harvest is completed.’” (Ruth 2:21 nlt) This was not a one-day trip for food. Ruth would not be gleaning as much as she would be working alongside the women until the end of the harvest season as one of Boaz’s workers.

When we walk with the Lord and are in His will good things happen. If we are willing to take the lowest job or position to do the right thing for our families the Lord will bless us. God will provide for us, but He wants us to do it His way, God is our provider. God is providing for Naomi and a future for Ruth. Naomi is beginning to see the light of God’s providence. She is encouraged and hopeful now that Boaz in the picture. Naomi’s rejoices and tells Ruth to do as Boaz says and stay in his fields with the women.

Farmers harvesting wheat in a sunlit field near a hillside village

Ruth would stay in Boaz’s field working with the others for the next two months. This was hard intense work lasting from early spring until mid-June. “So Ruth worked alongside the women in Boaz’s fields and gathered grain with them until the end of the barley harvest. Then she continued working with them through the wheat harvest in early summer. And all the while she lived with her mother-in-law.” (Ruth 2:23 nlt) The end of the harvest will bring a new beginning for Ruth, the Moabitess, as we will begin to see next week……..

Bible Studies

The Story of Ruth the Moabitess: Part 2      

Loring Schultz

Read: RUTH 1:14-2:10 NLT – And again they wept together, and Orpah – Bible Gateway

“May the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge, reward you fully for what you have done.” Ruth 2:12 NLT

Farmers harvesting wheat in a sunlit field near a hillside village

Last week, in our story of Ruth we left off with Naomi trying to persuade her two daughters-in-law that it would be better for them if they returned to their homeland and their families. Orpah finally decided to go back, but Ruth held steadfast clinging unto Naomi. Ruth’s mind was made up. She would return with Naomi. That did not deter Naomi from trying to convince Ruth to follow her sister-in-law Orpah. ‘“Look,’ Naomi said to her, ‘your sister-in-law has gone back to her people and to her gods. You should do the same.’” (Ruth 1:15 nlt) There was something going on in Ruth’s mind and heart. She not only loved Naomi, but she now has also come to know the true God. Ruth stated Naomi’s people will be her people and Naomi’s God would be her God. Ruth had forsaken the gods of the Moabite people. Naomi realized Ruth was determined and consented. Ruth will accompany Naomi back to Bethlehem.

“So the two of them continued on their journey. When they came to Bethlehem, the entire town was excited by their arrival. ‘Is it really Naomi?’ the women asked.” (Ruth1:19 nlt) Naomi looked as though she had a rough ten years or more. The trip of seventy miles took them 7-10 days, so I’m sure they both looked a little rugged. The women who knew Naomi were excited as everyone else but they noticed something deeper than just her physical appearance. They were actually saying, ‘is this the same person who left the city some years ago.’ What happened?

Naomi aware of their tone in questioning answers them by confirming they are right and here is why. ‘“Don’t call me Naomi,’ she responded. ‘Instead, call me Mara, for the Almighty has made life very bitter for me.” (Ruth 1:20 nlt) Mara means bitter. Naomi is bitter of her circumstances. She still recognizes God as the Almighty God, but she is having a tough time dealing with what has taken place in her life. We too at times can feel as Naomi did, bitter of tragedies that come into our lives. It is understandable, but Naomi gives us a notable example to follow in knowing that God is still God and He is the Lord Almighty. I am sure it wasn’t easy for Naomi and it is not easy for us, but the Lord will help us struggle through it. Naomi explains she went away full as the famine was beginning but has now returned empty, no husband, no sons, and no food. She did return with “her daughter-in-law  Ruth, the young Moabite woman. They arrived in Bethlehem in late spring, at the beginning of the barley harvest.” (Ruth 1:22 nlt) The famine was over and the Lord is blessing the people in Bethlehem. Naomi and Ruth arrive as the barley is about to be harvested. Barley was the first of the grains to be harvested. In ancient Canaan took place in April and May.

Chapter 2 begins with an introduction of another main character, Boaz. Boaz was a relative of Naomi’s late husband Elimelech. He was a wealthy and influential man, but in those days it also meant Boaz possessed the finest qualities. He was an upright man. After a short while Ruth understands she needs to help support herself and her mother-in-law. Ruth requested that she go into the fields as the barley is being harvested and glean what was left behind. According to Mosaic Law grain was to be left after the first cutting for the poor. A person was permitted to follow along and pick up the fallen stalks.

“So Ruth went out to gather grain behind the harvesters. And as it happened, she found herself working in a field that belonged to Boaz, the relative of her father-in-law, Elimelech.” (Ruth 2:3 nlt) By chance, but not really by chance, Ruth winds up in Boaz’s field. God’s providence is at work here. The Lord leads her to the field of an upright influential godly man who is a relative.

Boaz arrives to check on the workers and the harvesting being done. He notices Ruth right away. Ruth, being from Moab, was not dressed as the other women. He asks the foremen about her and finds out she is the Moabitess who returned with Naomi. The foremen told Boaz that she asked to glean in the field which by right she did not to do because it was left for the poor. We do not know if Ruth was aware of this, but either way she politely asked if she could gather the leftover grain. The foreman then told Boaz what hard worker she was working continually except for a few minutes rest.

“Boaz went over and said to Ruth, ‘Listen, my daughter. Stay right here with us when you gather grain; don’t go to any other fields. Stay right behind the young women working in my field.’” (Ruth 2:8 nlt) Boaz’s kindness is seen immediately. His sense of protecting Ruth is also noticeable telling her not to go any other fields but to stay in his. He told her to stay behind the women and follow them. The women, or maidens, would bind the stalks that were cut down from the men and get them ready to be brought to the threshing floor. Ruth would follow behind and glean what was left over. Boaz made Ruth feel safe by warning the men not to be rough with her and she was assured of drinking water when she felt the need for it.

Ruth is overwhelmed by Boaz’s kindness. “Ruth fell at his feet and thanked him warmly. ‘What have I done to deserve such kindness?’ she asked. ‘I am only a foreigner.’” (Ruth 2:10 nlt) Ruth shows her humility knowing she is Moabite and not an Israelite receiving such kindness. Boaz is well aware of this Moabitess and we will find out what he already knows about her next week in Biblical Insights.

Bible Studies

The Story of Ruth the Moabitess: Part 1      

Loring Schultz

Read: RUTH 1 NLT – Elimelech Moves His Family to Moab – In – Bible Gateway

“And again they wept together, and Orpah kissed her mother-in-law good-bye. But Ruth clung tightly to Naomi.” Ruth 1:14 NLT

Photo by Sincerely Media on Unsplash

This week in Biblical Insights we begin a new series ‘The Story of Ruth the Moabitess.’ The Old Testament book of Ruth is much more than about the character it is named for, as the Lord used this woman from a pagan country to bring about His purposes, ultimately being in the ancestral line of Jesus Christ our savior. The book features the key word of redemption throughout. The Hebrew word in various forms is used twenty-three times in the book. Naomi could very well be considered the main character as her life is an example of going from emptiness to fullness. Boaz sets forth what it looks like to do the right thing. His kindness is an example that should be followed by all God-fearing people. The book of Ruth makes it clear that entrance into God’s kingdom is not through birthright into a religion or an ethnic group, but only through obedience of faith to God. So, let us begin this series.

“In the days when the judges ruled in Israel, a severe famine came upon the land. So a man from Bethlehem in Judah left his home and went to live in the country of Moab, taking his wife and two sons with him.” (Ruth 1:1 nlt) The man’s name was Elimelech. His wife was Naomi and his sons were named Mahlon and Kilion. The story takes place during the period of the judges, a time of Israel’s apostasy and moral degradation. Because of their unfaithfulness Israel was often put under oppression by their enemies. After they called out to God, the Lord would deliver them from their suffering through a judge He would appoint. Famines were not uncommon in the Near East during those days. Rainfall was not always plentiful. We do not know if this famine were another punishment for Israel’s disobedience, but we do know the Lord promised they would always have plenty to eat if they obeyed Him. (Deut.11:13-15) Bethlehem means ‘house of bread’ or ‘house of food,’ but apparently not now.

One thing to consider is, even though this may have been temporary, Elimelech took it upon himself to leave the land God had promised them to travel to the pagan country of Moab. Did he overreact? Was his faith in God lacking? Did Naomi help persuade him to leave? We cannot definitively answer these questions, but we know that things did not work out so well. “Then Elimelech died, and Naomi was left with her two sons. (Ruth 1:3 nlt) Naomi’s sons married Moabite women which was not unlawful due to the fact they were in the country of Moab. Their names were Orpah and Ruth. The restriction against mixed marriages applied to those living in the Promised Land the Lord had given them. (Deut.7:1-3) But as we see after ten years Naomi’s sons die leaving her and her two daughters-in-law alone to care for themselves.

Naomi is now empty. Her husband and sons are dead and her daughters-in-law are childless. Childless widows in the ancient world were one of the lowest classes in society. Naomi knew this and the best thing for them to do would be to return to Bethlehem with her daughters-in-law. She had received word that the famine was over in Israel so now was the time to start the return home. “With her two daughters-in-law she set out from the place where she had been living, and they took the road that would lead them back to Judah.” (Ruth 1:7 nlt)

Both Orpah and Ruth had a deep love for Naomi as they would not have decided to go with her. But as they traveled Naomi tried to reason with them what would be best. Of course Naomi had no idea of God’s future plans as we do not in our lives, but we try as she did to make the most reasonable sound decision possible. Naomi said, “Go back to your mothers’ homes. And may the LORD reward you for your kindness to your husbands and to me. May the LORD bless you with the security of another marriage.” (Ruth 1:8-9 nlt) Naomi told them it would make more sense to return to their families and the land they are familiar with. She also asks the Lord’s blessing on them that they will remarry and find rest. After all one of God’s plans for marriage is to be a place of rest and peace.

Three women in ancient-style clothing walking along a rocky hillside path

Naomi kissed them, said goodbye, and all three broke down and cried. Orpah and Ruth both insisted that they wanted to go with her to Bethlehem and her people. Naomi must have had an enormous influence on them for them wanting to return with her. We should never underestimate the influence we can have on others if we remain consistent in obeying God. We may be surprised. Naomi again tries to persuade them she has nothing to offer them. She uses the example of the custom of levirate marriage where a brother would marry the widow of the dead husband and continue the line of the brother after the birth of the first child. This would be impossible because Naomi had no other sons and it is inconceivable that she would ever have other sons for them to marry. Naomi then confides in them by saying, “Things are far more bitter for me than for you, because the LORD himself has raised his fist against me.” (Ruth 1:13 nlt) Naomi realizes it is the Lord’s hand that is at work here. She doesn’t fully understand why. Was it because they left their home and did not trust in Him? Whatever the case she is returning both to her home and to God. Naomi is returning in repentance and is not bitter towards God. When we feel the Lord’s hand against us and become bitter it is time to repent and go back to Him. It is the only place in which to go.

The scene repeats itself, “And again they wept together, and Orpah kissed her mother-in-law good-bye. But Ruth clung tightly to Naomi.” (Ruth 1:14 nlt) This time Orpah took Naomi’s advice and saying goodbye started back to her home. ‘But Ruth clung tightly to Naomi.’ Until next week……….

Bible Studies

I Am the Vine: Jesus’ seven “I AM” statements – 7

Loring Schultz

Read: John 15:1-11 ESV – I Am the True Vine – “I am the true – Bible Gateway

“I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5 ESV

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Jesus’ seventh “I am” statement in John’s gospel is “I am the vine,” meaning He is the life. He proceeds to tell us we “are the branches,” meaning no life; for “the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine.” A branch off the vine dries up and dies, whatever fruit may have been on it will eventually rot. Jesus tells us that if we abide in Him we will bear fruit, in fact He says, “much fruit.” But take note what He says next, “for apart from me you can do nothing.”

The word “abide” appears ten times in the first eleven verses of John 15. The idea is to “remain” in Christ. If your Christian life is just there going through the motions having no recognizable changes in your life, there is a separation with the vine. It is utterly amazing what Christ can do for us as we remain in Him through daily Bible reading and prayer. Do not let worldly distractions keep you from what is profoundly important, abiding in Christ and bearing fruit.

So, are you bearing fruit? Are you growing in your spiritual walk with Jesus? Is your Christian life evident to those around you? Jesus said, ‘I am the (life) vine; you are the (dead) branches when you do not abide in Me.’ Jesus says remember, “apart from me you can do nothing.” Are you abiding in Him?

Bible Studies

I Am the Way, the Truth, and the Life: Jesus’ seven “I AM” statements – 6

Loring Schultz

Read: John 14:1-6 ESV – I Am the Way, and the Truth, and the – Bible Gateway

“Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’” John 14:6 ESV

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Starting out on a journey, whether a local excursion or an extended trip across the miles requires a knowledge of the way to get to your destination. Whether using your smart phone, a GPS system, or downloaded directions from a maps web site,  all will show several ways to get there. That is fine when traveling from here to there in our world. At times more than one option is sometimes desirable and even recommended. Today’s GPS systems will even redirect you if you make a wrong turn. If you see your life here on earth as a journey, which it is, where is your destination at the end of your life and where are you getting your directions? Will your world religions and earthly maps warn you if you made a wrong turn and are going in the wrong direction?

Ultimately if your destination is heaven; there is only one road, only one way to eternal life in heaven with God the Father. In Jesus’ sixth “I am” statement in John’s gospel, Jesus said very clearly the He is the only way to the Father. Of the seven “I am” statements, this one is the most controversial in our day. Why, because Jesus declares there are no other roads or religions, no short cuts, no long way around, no alternative route to heaven except through Him.

If what Jesus said is not true, then He would be a liar, and if He is a liar, He could not be God the Son, and if he is not God the Son, then He could not save us from our sins. All roads do not lead to heaven, only one does, Jesus! If there are other ways to eternal life except through Jesus, then Jesus’ death on the cross was in vain. No, “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’” (Jn.14:6 esv)

Bible Studies

I Am the Resurrection and the Life: Jesus’ seven “I AM” statements – 5

Loring Schultz

Read: John 11:1-44 NLT – The Raising of Lazarus – A man named – Bible Gateway

“Jesus told her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying.’” John 11:25 NLT

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The story is told of another miracle perform by Jesus in the eleventh chapter of the gospel of John. It is also the basis for His fifth “I AM.” This particular one is perhaps the greatest of them all. Jesus raised a person from the dead, one who had been dead four days. The person was Lazarus, a very close and personal friend of Jesus along with Lazarus’s sisters Mary and Martha. When Jesus heard that his friend Lazarus was sick, He stayed two more days in the place where He was before he left in response to the news. (Jn.11:6) The question immediately comes to mind, why? Why did he wait two days?

Some have suggested that Jesus knew that Lazarus was already dead when the messenger’s arrived to tell Him that His friend was sick. Perhaps so, but there seems to be a deeper explanation. For those present at Lazarus’s resurrection and for those of us in our day, it is a matter of trust (or faith) in Jesus Christ. Do we believe He is in control of every portion of our lives, that He is never late, and that He loves us knowing what is best for us? Do we believe He is God the Son, and have faith that nothing is impossible for Him to do?

Raising Lazarus from the dead was not impossible for Jesus to do, He is the resurrection and the life. Jesus also said, “Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying.” (Jn.11:26 nlt) We are assured of a place in heaven and eternal life if we put our trust and faith in Jesus Christ, God the Son.

Jesus is speaking to you and me when He says, “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never ever die. Do you believe this, (insert your name)?” (Jn.11:25-26 nlt)