We have a Redeemer who CAN!

Like Boaz, our Redeemer takes the initiative in our Redemption ()

Explanation: In this final act in the book of Ruth we see Boaz taking care of business. The previous chapter ended with him telling Ruth he would settle the matter. Naomi was also of the mind that Boaz would not rest until the situation was resolved one way or another. While the text does not explicitly state it, there is a high probability that Boaz went directly to the city gate when he left the threshing floor.

As Boaz moves into position, the Narrator supplies information that this other near kinsman just happens to be passing by the gate. [the Unseen Hand is at work again, providentially bringing the pieces together!] This other was on his own business, but Boaz takes the initiative and and asks him to turn aside. He does so, and then he waits at the gate while Boaz gathers the necessary witnesses for validating the transaction

Argument: God is the One who draws lost sinners to Himself. The natural man is dead in his trespasses and sins () and cannot comprehend spiritual things (). He or she is in rebellion and will not seek God on his or her own behalf (). In His love and Grace, however, God comes to us. He draws near and invades our lives with His presence because He came to seek and to save that which was lost ()

Application: As believers, we are to be thankful for the coming of Christ, not only into the world, but into our lives. And as we walk among those who are still spiritually dead, let us be mindful that we may be the means that God uses to bring the Word of Hope to them

Like the near kinsman, the world offers us partial redemption ()

Explanation: When Boaz brings the matter of redeeming Elimelech’s land in order to assist Naomi, the nearer kinsman is all for the deal. He agrees to redeem the land. Being a close relative, he knows Naomi and is fully aware that she is past child-bearing. He can get the land and increase his holdings.

However, when Boaz stipulates that Ruth is to be included in the deal, the nearer kinsman quickly has second thoughts. Acquiring Ruth as a wife and then having a child who would then inherit the land of Elimelech was more than he could handle. The nearer kinsman, selfishly considering his own assets more than the needs of others, backs out of the deal by stating, “I cannot redeem it.”

Illustrate: getting one of the electric cars and avoiding the cost of gas sounds really good. Then you find out there are no charging stations anywhere near your work, and the replacement cost of the batteries is $4,000 dollars

Argument: The nearer kinsman could not handle the “catch” when it was revealed. Boaz could handle it, and stepped up to the plate. In a similar way, the world system offers partial healing, partial comfort, partial happiness, partial ______. Only Jesus can deliver a full and complete Redemption for our sin and brokenness. Only Jesus can deliver an Eternal Solution to life’s greatest need.

Application: The world system is limited. What it offers can sometimes look good, but it is never as good as it looks. The solutions of the world, while tempting, are incomplete. Money, position, and things can only go so far.

Like Boaz, our Redeemer is Willing, Capable, and actually Provides complete Redemption ()

Explanation: When the near kinsman backs out of the deal and declares that he cannot redeem the situation, Boaz steps in with his redemption. Boaz had already declared his intent earlier (3:13; 4:4b), and now in vv 9 & 10 he states that he is actually providing the redemption. He does so without hesitation or evasion in the presence of the witnesses.

Illustrate: It is one thing to want to buy a car. A person may have all the desire in the world, but if their credit score is too low the bank won’t lend the money.

Argument: Boaz signed on the dotted line and got the sandal. He completed the deal. Boaz is a type for our Ultimate Redeemer Jesus. Jesus not only wanted to redeem a people for Himself, He actually has already done so. There on the Cross, Jesus cried out, “IT IS FINISHED!”

Application: Jesus is our Complete Redeemer. As believers, we have a tendency to drift back towards the world. Renew your mind and refresh your trust in Jesus for your needs. He alone can Provide

Application: Jesus is our Complete Redeemer. As believers, we have a tendency to drift back towards the world. Renew your mind and refresh your trust in Jesus for your needs. He alone can Provide

Like the Witnesses, we can Rejoice in His Redemption ()

Explanation: the elders and the others affirmed and witnessed the redemption made by Boaz of Naomi’s property and his marriage to Ruth. Not only were they witnesses, they celebrated the Redemption story and invoked the blessing of God in the Covenant Name upon what took place. They interceded on behalf of Boaz and Ruth that the two of them might multiply the nation and that they would be role models for the community

Argument: In His providence and in keeping with His promises, God marked a turning point in the nation’s history with Leah and Rachel. These 2, along with their hand maids, were the mothers of the 12 tribes. Jacob’s 12 sons were the point of multiplication and the building up of the house of Israel.

Perez was Judah’s son and was also Boaz’s great to the 4th grandfather. And Perez was the result of a levirate marriage. The point on including Perez is not to draw attention to the sin of Judah’s first 2 sons, or his own sin in sleeping with his daughter-in-law. The point of similarity is the use of the levirate marriage system to continue the line. A line that ultimately produced the Messiah.

Perez was Judah’s son and was also Boaz’s great to the 4th grandfather.

Application: Jesus can and does Redeem situations that are beyond our comprehension. When He enters the picture and provides salvation to others, we should be affirming witness who pray for those who have been rescued