Sermon Transcript
Reader's Version
Ruth – Where Do Your Loyalties Lie?Sermon by Gene SimcoReader’s Version
John Kenneth Galbraith, a renowned economist in the early 1900s, was frequently sought after by dignitaries to help navigate economic markets. One particular day, exhausted from his work, he instructed his housekeeper, Emily, to hold all his calls and not disturb him under any circumstances. Shortly thereafter, the phone rang. It was none other than President Lyndon Johnson calling from the White House.
"Get me Ken Galbraith," the President commanded.
"He's sleeping, Mr. President," Emily replied. "He said not to disturb him."
"Well, wake him up. I want to talk to him," Johnson insisted.
Emily, unfazed by the power of the caller, simply responded, "No, Mr. President. I work for him, not you."
When Galbraith later returned the call, President Johnson could scarcely contain his admiration. "Tell that woman I want her here in the White House!"
Emily, the housekeeper, understood something fundamental. She was a servant to one man, and she obeyed his wishes without hesitation. Her loyalty was firm, unwavering, and unshaken by external pressures. She knew to whom she belonged.
We find ourselves continuing in our Alpha and Omega series, where we are journeying through the beginning and the end of the Bible, covering one book each week. Once again, I want to remind you that my hope is not for this to be a mere Cliff’s Notes version, something to check off a list, but rather that these stories will draw you in, inviting you to dig deeper into God’s Word.
As we go through these books, we see that Jesus is the Alpha and the Omega—the beginning and the end. Everything in the Old Testament ultimately points to Him.
We have discussed chapter movements throughout this series, noting that chapter and verse numbers were not part of the original biblical texts. These divisions were not introduced until the 1500s, with the Geneva Bible in 1560 being the first English Bible to include them. This means that for the majority of Christian history, believers did not face the “verse of the day” problem that we often see today. Scripture was meant to be read in longer sections, allowing for a fuller understanding of its message.
With Ruth, however, we find a unique case. This short book, only four chapters long, is a novella in its structure—crafted to be read in one sitting. Its compact nature allows us to experience its entire arc at once, immersing ourselves in the story of redemption, loyalty, and divine providence.
The Book of Ruth serves as a bridge between Judges and 1 Samuel, setting the stage for King David’s lineage. As we discussed in our last message, Judges ended in chaos, with Israel doing what was right in their own eyes, and Ruth introduces hope amid that darkness.
Have you ever witnessed someone’s life completely transformed by a single act of kindness or love? The story of Ruth is one of kindness, loyalty, and God's redeeming love. It takes place during the time of Judges, a period of spiritual and moral decline in Israel, yet in contrast to the rebellion we saw in that book, Ruth offers a story of faithfulness and God’s providence. This is more than a simple love story. It is a picture of Jesus, our ultimate Redeemer, bringing outsiders into the family of God.
In chapter one, we are introduced to a family struggling with famine. Elimelech is the husband, and his wife Naomi travels with him from Bethlehem to Moab, along with their two sons, Mahlon and Kilion. Their names foreshadow what is to come—Mahlon’s name means “sickly,” and Kilion’s name means “wasting away.” To a Jewish reader, this journey would immediately appear as a faithless act. Instead of trusting God during the famine, they left the land He had given them and went to Moab, a nation often hostile toward Israel.
Not long after arriving in Moab, Elimelech dies, and Naomi is left a widow. Her two sons then marry Moabite women, Orpah and Ruth, which would also be seen as faithless, as Israel was not supposed to intermarry with pagan nations (Deuteronomy 7:3-4). After ten years, both Mahlon and Kilion also die, leaving Naomi and her daughters-in-law as widows with no means of support.
Naomi, hearing that the famine in Israel has ended, decides to return home. She urges Orpah and Ruth to go back to their own people, insisting that she has nothing left to offer them. Orpah eventually returns to Moab, but Ruth refuses to leave. This moment sets up one of the most powerful statements of loyalty and faith in all of Scripture. Naomi tells Ruth, “Look, your sister-in-law has gone back to her people and to her gods. You should do the same” (Ruth 1:15). This contrast highlights the theme of loyalty versus disloyalty.
But Ruth refuses to leave Naomi, demonstrating a faith that goes beyond family ties. Our key verses, Ruth 1:16-17, capture her devotion:
"Don’t ask me to leave you and turn back. Wherever you go, I will go; wherever you live, I will live. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God. Wherever you die, I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord punish me severely if I allow anything but death to separate us!"
This is extraordinary. Ruth, a Moabite, is not just pledging loyalty to Naomi but to the God of Israel. She is leaving behind her people, her culture, and her gods to fully embrace the faith of Naomi. In doing so, she becomes a picture of God’s heart for the outsider.
When they return to Bethlehem, Naomi is so overcome with grief that she tells the women there, “Don’t call me Naomi. Instead, call me Mara, for the Almighty has made life very bitter for me” (Ruth 1:20). This name change reflects her despair, much like the bitter water at Marah in Exodus 15:23-25, where God turned the bitter water into something drinkable. Naomi believes her life is hopeless, but she is about to witness God’s faithfulness unfold.
In chapter two, we find Ruth working in the fields of Boaz, a relative of her deceased father-in-law, Elimelech. This moment is significant because Ruth, now a foreigner living in Bethlehem, is humbling herself to provide for Naomi by gleaning leftover grain. According to the law, landowners were to leave the edges of their fields unharvested so the poor and widows could gather food (Leviticus 19:9-10).
As Ruth works, Boaz notices her and inquires about her. When he hears about her loyalty to Naomi, he is impressed and shows her kindness, instructing his workers not to harass her and to allow her to gather freely. In Ruth 2:8-9, Boaz tells 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. See which part of the field they are harvesting, and then follow them. I have warned the young men not to treat you roughly. And when you are thirsty, help yourself to the water they have drawn from the well."
Overwhelmed by his kindness, Ruth bows before him and asks why he is showing such favor to a foreigner. Boaz responds, “Yes, I know, but I also know about everything you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband… 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 2:11-12).
This moment highlights the theme of hesed, a Hebrew word meaning steadfast love, kindness, and loyalty. Ruth has demonstrated this kind of love to Naomi, and now Boaz is demonstrating it to Ruth.
During this scene, Boaz invites Ruth to break bread with him, offering her roasted grain. This is a moment of deeper connection, where Ruth is not just receiving leftovers—she is welcomed to the table (Ruth 2:14). After eating, Ruth returns to the field, and Boaz secretly orders his workers to leave extra grain behind for her, ensuring she has more than enough to take home.
A significant note here concerns the Greek Septuagint (LXX) and its contrast with the Masoretic Text (MT). The Septuagint, the version of Scripture used by the early church and quoted frequently in the New Testament, states that the workers were to treat Ruth as an equal among them. This foreshadows the inclusion of the Gentiles into the family of faith through Jesus Christ (Galatians 3:28). However, the Masoretic Text, developed later by Jewish scholars who had rejected Jesus as the Messiah, slightly alters this wording. This is yet another example of why the Greek Old Testament remains essential for understanding how Jesus fulfills the Scriptures, as it preserves the early Christian understanding of God’s plan to bring all people—Jew and Gentile—into His covenant.
After breaking bread with Boaz, Ruth gathers even more grain and brings it home to Naomi, who is astounded by her provision. Naomi then reveals something crucial—Boaz is their family redeemer. In Hebrew law, a kinsman-redeemer (go’el) was a relative who had the right to buy back land, marry a widow, and preserve the family name (Leviticus 25:25). Naomi recognizes God’s providence at work, setting up what is about to unfold in the next chapter.
The chapter closes with Ruth continuing to work in Boaz’s fields until the end of the harvest, demonstrating her faithfulness and diligence. God is providing for Naomi and Ruth, not just through food, but through a greater plan of redemption that is unfolding.
In chapter three, Naomi devises a plan for Ruth to seek Boaz as her kinsman-redeemer. Understanding the customs of their time, Naomi instructs Ruth on how to approach Boaz in a way that signals her desire for him to fulfill his role as a go’el, or family redeemer (Leviticus 25:25; Deuteronomy 25:5-10).
Naomi tells Ruth to wash, put on perfume, and dress in her best clothes before going to the threshing floor where Boaz would be sleeping after the harvest (Ruth 3:3). This is not an act of seduction but rather a symbolic gesture. Some scholars suggest that by changing out of her widow’s garments, Ruth is signaling that she is now ready for marriage.
Following Naomi’s instructions, Ruth waits for Boaz to fall asleep, then quietly uncovers his feet and lies down (Ruth 3:7). This phrase, “uncovering his feet,” has sparked much discussion. Some have attempted to assign improper meaning to this phrase, but in the cultural context, it was a symbolic act of submission and a request for protection.
When Boaz wakes up startled, he asks who is there, and Ruth responds with a bold request:
"I am your servant Ruth. Spread the corner of your covering over me, for you are my family redeemer." (Ruth 3:9).
This phrase, "spread the corner of your garment," is significant. In Hebrew, the word for corner (kanaph) is also the word for wing, which connects back to Ruth 2:12 where Boaz had prayed that Ruth would find refuge under the wings of God. Here, Ruth is essentially asking Boaz to be the answer to his own prayer, providing her with the refuge and protection of marriage.
The word "feet" in Ruth 3:7-9 has long been debated for its possible cultural and linguistic implications. Ruth follows Naomi’s instruction to "uncover his feet" and lie down. Many scholars argue that the phrase carries a double meaning—both literal and possibly symbolic or euphemistic.
1. Literal Interpretation:
The simplest understanding is that Ruth literally lay down at Boaz’s actual feet as an act of humility, submission, and request for protection. This fits with the broader biblical use of “sitting at one’s feet” as a position of servitude or learning (e.g., Luke 10:39 with Mary sitting at Jesus’ feet). In this case, Ruth is humbly requesting Boaz to act as her kinsman-redeemer.
2. Feet as a Euphemism for Genitalia:
In ancient Hebrew culture, the word “feet” (רֶגֶל, regel) can serve as a euphemism for male genitalia, similar to its potential use in other parts of the Old Testament. This occurs in texts such as:
• Exodus 4:25 – Zipporah "touches Moses’ feet" with her son’s foreskin, which some scholars interpret as referring to circumcision and possibly Moses’ reproductive role.
• Isaiah 6:2 – The seraphim use two wings to cover their "feet," which some interpret as covering their private parts in reverence before God.
If “feet” is meant as a euphemism in Ruth, Naomi may have been advising Ruth to perform an intimate act or at least to place herself in a position where Boaz would have understood her request as a marriage proposal. This would align with Ancient Near Eastern customs where acts of covering or uncovering could carry marriage implications.
3. Lying at His Feet as a Request for Protection:
Rather than an explicitly sexual act, Ruth's uncovering of Boaz's feet could symbolically mirror a request for marriage and protection under Boaz as the kinsman-redeemer.
• In Ezekiel 16:8, God metaphorically “spreads His garment” over Israel, symbolizing marriage and protection.
• Ruth uses similar language: "Spread the corner of your garment over me, for you are my family redeemer." (Ruth 3:9).
This supports the idea that Ruth is making a marriage proposal in the symbolic language of the time. Uncovering his feet may have been a culturally recognized gesture of submission and request for care rather than an act of seduction.
4. Boaz’s Reaction – A Clue to the Meaning
Boaz reacts favorably and honorably, showing no shock or rebuke (Ruth 3:10-11). If Ruth’s actions were overtly inappropriate, we might expect outrage or even expulsion. Instead, Boaz praises Ruth’s loyalty and kindness, treating her as a righteous woman, which suggests her actions were bold yet culturally appropriate rather than illicit.
Conclusion: A Culturally Loaded Gesture
The act of uncovering Boaz’s feet and lying down appears to be a highly symbolic yet culturally appropriate marriage proposal, not an act of seduction. The phrase "feet" in Hebrew can carry sexual connotations, but the larger context suggests submission, loyalty, and a plea for redemption rather than sexual impropriety.
Ruth, a foreigner and widow, approaches Boaz at night in a vulnerable yet bold way, requesting that he act as her redeemer. Her actions, though unusual, are faithful and righteous, showing her trust in God’s provision through Boaz.
Boaz is moved by Ruth’s character, recognizing that she could have pursued a younger man but instead sought to follow the proper order of redemption in Israel (Ruth 3:10). He assures her that he will redeem her if he is able, but notes that there is another relative closer in line who must be consulted first (Ruth 3:12-13).
Before Ruth leaves in the morning, Boaz gives her six measures of barley, which she carries back in her apron (Ruth 3:15). The number six in Hebrew culture represents incompleteness, as it falls short of seven, the biblical number of completion and rest. This gesture subtly foreshadows the completion of Ruth’s redemption in the next chapter.
Naomi’s plan and Ruth’s boldness defy social norms in multiple ways—Ruth, a Moabite, directly requests redemption from a respected Israelite man, challenging expectations. Yet, God’s providence is at work, using human decisions and customs to weave together His redemptive plan. The cultural practice of the kinsman-redeemer reflects God’s heart for the vulnerable and outcast, prefiguring Jesus, who would one day be the ultimate Redeemer of both Jew and Gentile (Galatians 3:28).
In chapter four, Boaz moves to secure Ruth’s redemption by following the proper legal procedures at the city gate, where legal and business transactions took place in ancient Israel (Ruth 4:1). Boaz gathers ten elders as witnesses, ensuring the matter is handled publicly and lawfully.
Boaz first addresses the closer family redeemer, presenting him with the opportunity to redeem the land that once belonged to Elimelech. Initially, the man is interested—after all, acquiring more land would increase his wealth and inheritance (Ruth 4:3-4). However, Boaz then adds that the land also comes with Ruth, meaning that redeeming it would require him to marry Ruth and produce offspring in Elimelech’s name (Ruth 4:5). At this, the man withdraws, 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).
His response reveals his self-interest—he is unwilling to jeopardize his inheritance by taking on the responsibility of raising children in another man’s name.
The first kinsman-redeemer declined to marry Ruth because it would have endangered his own inheritance (Ruth 4:6). Here are the key reasons why:
1. He Would Have Had to Provide an Heir for Mahlon
• According to Levirate Law (Deuteronomy 25:5-10), if a man died without children, his closest relative was to marry the widow and produce an heir in the name of the deceased husband.
• This meant that Ruth and Boaz’s first son would legally be considered the son of Mahlon, not the first kinsman-redeemer.
• The land that came with Ruth would ultimately pass to this heir, not to the redeemer’s existing family line.
2. Loss of Land & Financial Burden
• By marrying Ruth, the kinsman-redeemer would initially gain land from Elimelech’s estate, but this gain would be temporary.
• Once Ruth bore a son, the land would transfer to Mahlon’s legal heir, meaning the redeemer would have spent money acquiring land only to lose it again.
• He would have also been responsible for providing for Ruth and Naomi, adding to his financial burden without long-term benefits.
3. It Could Affect His Current Inheritance & Family Line
• If the kinsman-redeemer already had sons, marrying Ruth could complicate inheritance rights, potentially requiring him to divide land and resources between both family lines.
• His own sons might receive less inheritance if he took on another household.
• In extreme cases, if he had no sons at the time, Ruth’s child could inherit everything, meaning his name and estate could be lost in favor of Mahlon’s line.
4. Ruth Was a Moabite – Possible Social & Legal Complications
• Moabites were historically excluded from the assembly of Israel (Deuteronomy 23:3), so marrying Ruth may have had social stigma attached to it.
• The Law technically refers to male Moabites, not females, but some Israelites may have seen intermarriage with a Moabite widow as a potential risk to reputation and standing.
5. Fear of Family & Community Judgment
• He may have feared backlash from his existing family or community disapproval, since the inclusion of a Moabite into the family line could be controversial.
• Boaz, however, had the wisdom and standing to recognize Ruth’s faith rather than her nationality (Ruth 2:11-12), whereas the first redeemer may have been less willing to take that risk.
Conclusion: Short-Term Gain, Long-Term Loss
The first kinsman-redeemer would have paid a high price for marrying Ruth but gained little in return. By declining, he protected his own estate and family legacy, allowing Boaz—who was willing to take on the responsibility—to step in as the rightful redeemer. This highlights Boaz’s selfless character, foreshadowing Jesus, our true Redeemer, who sacrifices for us despite the cost.
To finalize the transaction, the man removes his sandal and hands it to Boaz (Ruth 4:7-8). This was an ancient custom symbolizing the transfer of property or legal rights. While it may seem unusual to modern readers, in that time, it served as a public and binding agreement.
With the transaction complete, Boaz marries Ruth, securing her redemption and restoring Naomi’s family line (Ruth 4:9-10). The once-broken household is now rebuilt, reversing the tragedies that had taken place at the beginning of the book.
The story reaches its climax with the birth of Ruth and Boaz’s son, Obed, who becomes the grandfather of King David (Ruth 4:17). The community rejoices, recognizing how God has redeemed Naomi’s family through Ruth’s loyalty and Boaz’s faithfulness.
"Then the women of the town said to Naomi, ‘Praise the Lord, who has now provided a redeemer for your family! May this child be famous in Israel. 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 4:14-15).
The genealogy at the end of Ruth directly connects to Jesus, revealing that God’s redemptive plan was unfolding through unexpected people. The Moabite woman who once seemed like an outsider became a key part of God’s covenant plan.
Boaz’s redemption of Ruth points directly to Jesus, the ultimate Redeemer. Just as Boaz willingly took on the cost of redeeming Ruth, Jesus took on the cost of redeeming humanity. The closer relative in Ruth’s story represents the law, which could not ultimately redeem, while Boaz represents Christ, who provides full redemption through grace.
In the same way that Ruth found a home, security, and a future in Boaz, we find eternal security in Jesus Christ, who restores all things and calls us into His family.
And here we see our Alpha and Omega fulfillments.
In Ruth 3:9, Ruth makes a bold request:
"Spread the corner of your covering over me, for you are my family redeemer."
This act of Ruth seeking Boaz’s protection and redemption is a powerful foreshadowing of how we, too, seek Christ as our Redeemer. The Omega fulfillment of this is seen in Ephesians 1:7:
"He is so rich in kindness and grace that He purchased our freedom with the blood of His Son and forgave our sins."
Boaz’s role as kinsman-redeemer is a profound shadowing of Christ’s redemptive work. Just as Boaz redeemed Ruth, securing her future and bringing her into his family, Jesus redeems us through His sacrifice. By His blood, Christ purchases our freedom from sin and makes us heirs of God’s promises, fulfilling the ultimate act of redemption.
Through Ruth the foreigner, we see that God welcomes outsiders into His covenant family. Our Alpha fulfillment is found in Ruth 1:16:
"Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God."
In our Omega fulfillment, we see the genealogies of Jesus in Matthew 1:5-6:
"Boaz was the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth. Obed was the father of Jesse. Jesse was the father of King David."
Ruth’s story highlights God’s inclusion of outsiders into His redemptive plan. Despite being a Moabite, Ruth’s faith and loyalty brought her into the lineage of Jesus Himself. This mirrors Christ’s mission to redeem all nations, demonstrating God’s boundless grace and His heart for every individual, regardless of background, race, or culture.
In Ruth, we see the foreshadowing of the greatest redemption story:
• She is rescued from despair by Boaz, just as we are rescued from sin and death by Jesus.
• She is brought into a new family, just as we are grafted into God’s family through faith in Christ (Romans 11:17).
• She is given a future and a hope, just as Jesus secures our eternal inheritance (1 Peter 1:3-4).
Just as Ruth found refuge under Boaz’s covering, we find refuge under the grace and salvation of Christ.
And we see the line of David continuing, pointing us directly to Jesus, the eternal King.
In Ruth 4:17, the women of the town recognize the significance of Naomi’s grandson:
"The neighbor women said, 'Now at last Naomi has a son again!' And they named him Obed. He became the father of Jesse and the grandfather of David."
That is King David—the greatest king of Israel and the one through whom God’s covenant promise was made.
In our Omega fulfillment, we see this clearly in Luke 1:32-33:
"He will be very great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of His ancestor David. And He will reign over Israel forever; His Kingdom will never end."
Ruth’s connection to the line of David is a pivotal moment in redemptive history. Her marriage to Boaz and the birth of Obed set the stage for King David, the man after God’s own heart, whose throne God promised would endure forever. This promise finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus, the descendant of David, who reigns eternally as the King of Kings, securing salvation and hope for all.
Ruth’s story is one of faithfulness, love, and redemption. It shows how God works through ordinary people and events to fulfill His extraordinary plan.
• Boaz’s role as a redeemer prefigures Jesus, our ultimate Redeemer.
• Ruth, an outsider, is welcomed into God’s covenant, just as we are welcomed into His family through Christ.
• Naomi, who once called herself Mara (bitter), is restored to fullness and joy, showing how God turns mourning into joy (Psalm 30:11).
Ruth’s journey from famine to fullness, from outsider to family, is a picture of what Jesus has done for us. He redeems, restores, and makes us a part of God’s eternal family.
Just as Boaz provided for Ruth and Naomi, Jesus provides for us in ways beyond what we can imagine.
We need to:
• Trust in His redemption – He has purchased us with His blood and made us co-heirs with Him (Romans 8:17).
• Live in His love – Just as Boaz showed kindness to Ruth, we are called to show the love of Christ to others.
• Share in His kindness with others – Because we have been redeemed, we are called to bring others into the family of God, just as Ruth, an outsider, became a part of the story of Jesus.
Ultimately, Ruth points us to Jesus, the true and better Boaz, the King from David’s line, whose kingdom will never end.
Loyalty is a key theme in the story of Ruth, beautifully illustrated through Ruth’s unwavering commitment to Naomi. As followers of Christ, we are called to display the same loyalty across key areas of our lives. Ruth’s example invites us to consider how loyalty plays a role in our work, friendships, family, and church, and to reflect on when we should stay, when it is appropriate to leave, and the blessings that come from steadfast commitment.
Loyalty in the workplace is an important principle, but discernment is required. There are times when leaving a job is necessary, particularly when ethical compromises or harmful environments make it spiritually damaging. Some workplace cultures can be toxic for Christians, pulling them away from their faith or forcing them into compromising situations. If a job begins to corrupt one’s morals, then it is time to seek employment elsewhere. However, how one leaves is just as important as the decision itself. It should be done with grace, integrity, and without burning bridges.
Many people fall into the trap of thinking that the grass is greener in another job, assuming that money, title, or status will bring satisfaction. Yet leaving solely for these reasons often leads to disappointment. Contentment does not come from a bigger paycheck or a promotion. Paul writes in 1 Timothy 6:6-10 that true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. If someone is discontent in their work, they should examine whether the issue lies with the job or within their own heart. A phrase often heard is, “Wherever you go, there you are.” If someone is unhappy or unfulfilled, simply changing jobs will not fix the core issues. True joy comes from within, and work alone cannot provide that.
We are also called to be faithful witnesses in our workplaces, even in difficult environments. 1 Peter 2:18-21 exhorts believers to endure hardship with patience, not for wrongdoing but as a testimony to Christ. "For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in His steps" (1 Peter 2:21). Workplaces can often be challenging, filled with difficult people or unfair treatment, but Christians are called to shine as lights in the midst of darkness. This doesn’t mean enduring abuse or unethical situations, but rather responding with integrity, patience, and grace, showing the character of Christ through our actions. Just as Ruth’s faithfulness in a foreign land led to her redemption, so too can our steadfastness in challenging work environments serve as a testimony that draws others toward Christ.
Changing one’s environment does not automatically change a person. Personal growth requires internal work, and new workplaces will not suddenly transform character or work ethic. Scripture reminds us that faithfulness in small things leads to greater opportunities. Loyalty in work often brings trust, promotion, and deeper relationships. Just as Ruth found favor because of her faithfulness, remaining steadfast in a job where God has placed someone can lead to unexpected blessings. Employers test reliability, and promotion often comes to those who have been tested and proven faithful.
Loyalty applies to friendships as well. There are times when it is necessary to leave certain relationships, especially when they are toxic or pull us away from Christ. Paul warns in 1 Corinthians 15:33, “Bad company corrupts good character.” Friendships should build us up in faith, not drag us into sin or compromise. While we are called to love all people, we must also use wisdom in choosing our close companions. Constant negativity, narcissism, or emotionally abusive relationships can be damaging, and in some cases, it is necessary to love people from a distance.
At the same time, we must recognize that the grass is not always greener when it comes to friendships. Trading old friends for new, shallow ones rarely satisfies the deeper longing for authentic relationships. True friendship is built over time, through trust, loyalty, and shared experiences. If someone continually cycles through friendships, always searching for something better, they may never find the depth they desire.
Another truth to consider is that wherever you go, there you are. Relationship issues often follow us because we carry the same insecurities, hurts, and patterns into new friendships. Before blaming others for relational difficulties, it is wise to ask an important question: What was my role in this? Personal growth requires self-reflection. Proverbs 19:11 reminds us, “Sensible people control their temper; they earn respect by overlooking wrongs.” If conflict repeatedly arises in friendships, the common denominator may not be the friends but the unresolved issues within ourselves.
Simply changing friends will not necessarily change a person. Lasting transformation requires intentional growth in character, not just a shift in social circles. We must be willing to examine our hearts, correct our flaws, and become the kind of friend we wish to have.
There are great rewards for staying committed to true friendships. Loyalty cultivates lifelong relationships rooted in trust and mutual respect. As Proverbs 27:17 declares, “As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.” Faithful friendships refine us, challenge us, and encourage us to grow in Christ. I once heard the phrase, “Don’t trust anyone without old friends, because you won’t be one.” The test of true friendship is time. Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi led to incredible blessings, and in the same way, steadfast friendships produce the kind of deep, meaningful bonds that cannot be easily replaced.
Loyalty applies deeply to both family and marriage. Scripture is clear that leaving a marriage is only permitted in specific circumstances—abandonment, adultery, or abuse—and even in these cases, reconciliation should always be prayerfully considered when safe and possible. Matthew 19:9 states, “And I tell you this, whoever divorces his wife and marries someone else commits adultery—unless his wife has been unfaithful.” Similarly, 1 Corinthians 7 addresses various aspects of marriage and separation, underscoring the seriousness of lifelong commitment.
Even in cases where divorce is permitted due to abandonment, adultery, or abuse, Scripture still calls believers to be witnesses of Christ, even in difficult situations. 1 Peter 3:1-2 speaks directly to this, encouraging Christian spouses to live in such a way that their unbelieving partners “will be won over by observing your pure and reverent lives.” This doesn’t mean staying in a harmful or unsafe situation, but rather that our faithfulness to Christ should remain unwavering, whether in marriage, separation, or any difficult circumstance. Likewise, 1 Corinthians 7:12-16 speaks of believers staying with their unbelieving spouses if the unbeliever is willing, emphasizing that a Christian's presence in a marriage can be a testimony of God's grace and lead to salvation. While there are times when separation is necessary, there are also times when enduring difficulties as a faithful witness to Christ may bring redemption into a broken situation.
There are significant consequences for leaving a marriage. Broken marriages often lead to lifelong emotional wounds, strained relationships with children and extended family, and a repeated cycle of relational brokenness. While there is no such thing as a generational curse in Christ, many who grow up in homes affected by divorce find themselves struggling in their own marriages. As a pastor, I have heard many people express their fear of repeating the past, worried that the difficulties their parents faced will inevitably become their own. Divorce also has a way of damaging personal testimony and hindering spiritual growth, often leaving individuals feeling lost and uncertain about God’s plan for them.
The illusion that the grass is greener often leads people to chase fleeting happiness outside of their marriage, only to discover that their struggles follow them. Pursuing new relationships for shallow reasons—whether personal dissatisfaction, emotional excitement, or sexual desires—rarely leads to true fulfillment. The excitement of something new inevitably wears off, and without true commitment, the cycle simply continues. The reality remains: wherever you go, there you are. Changing spouses won’t magically solve personal issues. Marital struggles often reveal deep-rooted problems that must be addressed individually. If someone consistently struggles with trust, insecurity, or selfishness, these issues won’t disappear with a new relationship. Proverbs 4:23 reminds us, “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.” True change starts within.
A new partner won’t necessarily change a person. Healthy marriages are built on humility, sacrifice, and a willingness to grow together. There is no perfect spouse, and no relationship is free from struggle. Ephesians 5:25 calls husbands to “love their wives, just as Christ loved the church. He gave up his life for her.” This level of self-sacrifice is what sustains marriage—not personal gain or temporary happiness.
Yet, there are incredible rewards for staying. Deep intimacy, trust, and spiritual maturity grow through years of faithful commitment. Just as Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi led to a redeemed family line and a lasting legacy, staying committed through the difficulties of marriage leads to an unshakable bond. God blesses those who remain steadfast in their vows, teaching them deeper lessons about love, patience, and grace.
Loyalty also applies to the church. When is it appropriate to leave a church? There are legitimate reasons—severe doctrinal errors, spiritual abuse, or leadership steeped in unrepentant sin. 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1 outline clear qualifications for church leaders, and when these standards are continually violated, accountability is necessary. However, many leave churches for superficial reasons—personal preferences about worship styles, small disagreements, or minor conflicts. These are not reasons to abandon a church family.
Leaving a church has significant consequences. Constantly changing churches creates instability in one’s spiritual growth, leading to a lack of deep discipleship and fractured relationships within the body of Christ. It also wounds those left behind, weakening the overall church community. When members walk away, it can discourage others, making them question their own place in the church. As it has been said, when someone leaves, it often feels like an amputation—part of the body is missing.
Paul uses the metaphor of the body of Christ in 1 Corinthians 12, demonstrating that every member is essential. Even the smallest, most unseen parts serve an irreplaceable function. This means that when people leave, their absence is felt, no matter their role. In a smaller church, the impact is even more pronounced. A thumb may seem small, but it is vital for grasping and movement. Likewise, every believer has a role, and when they remove themselves from the body, the whole church suffers.
It is also important to remember that the grass is not greener. Many leave churches because they feel that another congregation has better music, programs, or social appeal. But church-hopping rarely leads to deeper faith. Instead, it fosters a consumer mentality, where people treat church as a product rather than a family. Hebrews 10:25 urges us, “And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” Church is about commitment to Christ and to one another, not personal convenience.
Wherever you go, there you are. The perfect church does not exist, because every church is filled with imperfect people. No congregation will be free from problems, disagreements, or frustrations. The question is not whether a church is flawless, but whether we are willing to work through difficulties in love and unity. Changing churches won’t necessarily change a person. Spiritual maturity requires consistency, accountability, and humility—things that can’t be developed if we constantly uproot ourselves.
There are profound rewards for staying. Loyalty to a local church fosters deep relationships, spiritual depth, and a genuine sense of community. Just as Ruth’s commitment placed her in the lineage of Christ, long-term faithfulness to a church allows believers to experience the richness of Christ’s love through committed relationships.
Reflecting on my own life, I see how these principles have shaped me. At times, I was tempted to change jobs, believing something better awaited elsewhere. Yet, I realized that faithfulness in one place often led to unexpected blessings. As a former employer, I viewed frequent job changes as a red flag. Stability and loyalty matter in professional settings, just as they do in spiritual ones.
Marriage, too, has been a journey of growth. My wife’s battle with addiction could have led to destruction, but through God’s grace, she is now ten years sober. Many in recovery circles have stories of divorce, but by staying committed, we have witnessed God’s transformative power. Marriage is not easy, but true love is not found in perfection—it is forged in trials and strengthened through endurance.
The church has also been a place of testing and transformation. Our church has gone through many difficult seasons, including years where pastors were quickly discarded if their sermons challenged too many people. The church lacked stability, leadership was weak, and members operated as if they could vote on truth itself. But by staying, I witnessed God’s provision. He provided me with mentors, training, and ultimately, a calling to shepherd this congregation. Had I left, I would have missed the deep friendships and spiritual growth that now define my life.
Like Ruth, our loyalty in work, friendships, family, and church shapes who we become and how God uses us. When we commit to faithfulness, even when tempted to chase what seems easier or better, God rewards that commitment with deeper relationships, greater spiritual maturity, and lasting peace.
Loyalty teaches us valuable lessons. Ruth’s commitment to Naomi shows the power of steadfast love in relationships. Are we reflecting that kind of loyalty in our own lives? Integrity, as demonstrated by Boaz and Ruth, is crucial—do others see us as trustworthy and faithful? Ruth, a Moabite, became part of God’s covenant people, reminding us that God welcomes all. No one is beyond His love, regardless of background, history, or past failures.
The inclusion of Ruth in Jesus’ family tree is a powerful statement. If God welcomed her, He welcomes us. But do we extend that same love to others? Galatians 3:28 reminds us, “There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Are we willing to break down the walls of division—racial, political, or cultural—to show the love of Christ?
Loyalty to God, His people, and His purposes brings true blessings. Ruth’s story is a reminder that God's plans are always good. He brings beauty from ashes, redemption from loss, and fullness from famine. Even when life seems uncertain, He is working behind the scenes for our good. Romans 8:28 assures us, “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.”
True transformation does not come from changing our circumstances but from allowing God to shape us right where we are. Stay loyal. God blesses those who remain faithful.
©️ Copyright 2025 Gene Simco Most Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Scriptures in brackets reflect the original Biblical languages.
John Kenneth Galbraith, a renowned economist in the early 1900s, was frequently sought after by dignitaries to help navigate economic markets. One particular day, exhausted from his work, he instructed his housekeeper, Emily, to hold all his calls and not disturb him under any circumstances. Shortly thereafter, the phone rang. It was none other than President Lyndon Johnson calling from the White House.
"Get me Ken Galbraith," the President commanded.
"He's sleeping, Mr. President," Emily replied. "He said not to disturb him."
"Well, wake him up. I want to talk to him," Johnson insisted.
Emily, unfazed by the power of the caller, simply responded, "No, Mr. President. I work for him, not you."
When Galbraith later returned the call, President Johnson could scarcely contain his admiration. "Tell that woman I want her here in the White House!"
Emily, the housekeeper, understood something fundamental. She was a servant to one man, and she obeyed his wishes without hesitation. Her loyalty was firm, unwavering, and unshaken by external pressures. She knew to whom she belonged.
We find ourselves continuing in our Alpha and Omega series, where we are journeying through the beginning and the end of the Bible, covering one book each week. Once again, I want to remind you that my hope is not for this to be a mere Cliff’s Notes version, something to check off a list, but rather that these stories will draw you in, inviting you to dig deeper into God’s Word.
As we go through these books, we see that Jesus is the Alpha and the Omega—the beginning and the end. Everything in the Old Testament ultimately points to Him.
We have discussed chapter movements throughout this series, noting that chapter and verse numbers were not part of the original biblical texts. These divisions were not introduced until the 1500s, with the Geneva Bible in 1560 being the first English Bible to include them. This means that for the majority of Christian history, believers did not face the “verse of the day” problem that we often see today. Scripture was meant to be read in longer sections, allowing for a fuller understanding of its message.
With Ruth, however, we find a unique case. This short book, only four chapters long, is a novella in its structure—crafted to be read in one sitting. Its compact nature allows us to experience its entire arc at once, immersing ourselves in the story of redemption, loyalty, and divine providence.
The Book of Ruth serves as a bridge between Judges and 1 Samuel, setting the stage for King David’s lineage. As we discussed in our last message, Judges ended in chaos, with Israel doing what was right in their own eyes, and Ruth introduces hope amid that darkness.
Have you ever witnessed someone’s life completely transformed by a single act of kindness or love? The story of Ruth is one of kindness, loyalty, and God's redeeming love. It takes place during the time of Judges, a period of spiritual and moral decline in Israel, yet in contrast to the rebellion we saw in that book, Ruth offers a story of faithfulness and God’s providence. This is more than a simple love story. It is a picture of Jesus, our ultimate Redeemer, bringing outsiders into the family of God.
In chapter one, we are introduced to a family struggling with famine. Elimelech is the husband, and his wife Naomi travels with him from Bethlehem to Moab, along with their two sons, Mahlon and Kilion. Their names foreshadow what is to come—Mahlon’s name means “sickly,” and Kilion’s name means “wasting away.” To a Jewish reader, this journey would immediately appear as a faithless act. Instead of trusting God during the famine, they left the land He had given them and went to Moab, a nation often hostile toward Israel.
Not long after arriving in Moab, Elimelech dies, and Naomi is left a widow. Her two sons then marry Moabite women, Orpah and Ruth, which would also be seen as faithless, as Israel was not supposed to intermarry with pagan nations (Deuteronomy 7:3-4). After ten years, both Mahlon and Kilion also die, leaving Naomi and her daughters-in-law as widows with no means of support.
Naomi, hearing that the famine in Israel has ended, decides to return home. She urges Orpah and Ruth to go back to their own people, insisting that she has nothing left to offer them. Orpah eventually returns to Moab, but Ruth refuses to leave. This moment sets up one of the most powerful statements of loyalty and faith in all of Scripture. Naomi tells Ruth, “Look, your sister-in-law has gone back to her people and to her gods. You should do the same” (Ruth 1:15). This contrast highlights the theme of loyalty versus disloyalty.
But Ruth refuses to leave Naomi, demonstrating a faith that goes beyond family ties. Our key verses, Ruth 1:16-17, capture her devotion:
"Don’t ask me to leave you and turn back. Wherever you go, I will go; wherever you live, I will live. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God. Wherever you die, I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord punish me severely if I allow anything but death to separate us!"
This is extraordinary. Ruth, a Moabite, is not just pledging loyalty to Naomi but to the God of Israel. She is leaving behind her people, her culture, and her gods to fully embrace the faith of Naomi. In doing so, she becomes a picture of God’s heart for the outsider.
When they return to Bethlehem, Naomi is so overcome with grief that she tells the women there, “Don’t call me Naomi. Instead, call me Mara, for the Almighty has made life very bitter for me” (Ruth 1:20). This name change reflects her despair, much like the bitter water at Marah in Exodus 15:23-25, where God turned the bitter water into something drinkable. Naomi believes her life is hopeless, but she is about to witness God’s faithfulness unfold.
In chapter two, we find Ruth working in the fields of Boaz, a relative of her deceased father-in-law, Elimelech. This moment is significant because Ruth, now a foreigner living in Bethlehem, is humbling herself to provide for Naomi by gleaning leftover grain. According to the law, landowners were to leave the edges of their fields unharvested so the poor and widows could gather food (Leviticus 19:9-10).
As Ruth works, Boaz notices her and inquires about her. When he hears about her loyalty to Naomi, he is impressed and shows her kindness, instructing his workers not to harass her and to allow her to gather freely. In Ruth 2:8-9, Boaz tells 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. See which part of the field they are harvesting, and then follow them. I have warned the young men not to treat you roughly. And when you are thirsty, help yourself to the water they have drawn from the well."
Overwhelmed by his kindness, Ruth bows before him and asks why he is showing such favor to a foreigner. Boaz responds, “Yes, I know, but I also know about everything you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband… 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 2:11-12).
This moment highlights the theme of hesed, a Hebrew word meaning steadfast love, kindness, and loyalty. Ruth has demonstrated this kind of love to Naomi, and now Boaz is demonstrating it to Ruth.
During this scene, Boaz invites Ruth to break bread with him, offering her roasted grain. This is a moment of deeper connection, where Ruth is not just receiving leftovers—she is welcomed to the table (Ruth 2:14). After eating, Ruth returns to the field, and Boaz secretly orders his workers to leave extra grain behind for her, ensuring she has more than enough to take home.
A significant note here concerns the Greek Septuagint (LXX) and its contrast with the Masoretic Text (MT). The Septuagint, the version of Scripture used by the early church and quoted frequently in the New Testament, states that the workers were to treat Ruth as an equal among them. This foreshadows the inclusion of the Gentiles into the family of faith through Jesus Christ (Galatians 3:28). However, the Masoretic Text, developed later by Jewish scholars who had rejected Jesus as the Messiah, slightly alters this wording. This is yet another example of why the Greek Old Testament remains essential for understanding how Jesus fulfills the Scriptures, as it preserves the early Christian understanding of God’s plan to bring all people—Jew and Gentile—into His covenant.
After breaking bread with Boaz, Ruth gathers even more grain and brings it home to Naomi, who is astounded by her provision. Naomi then reveals something crucial—Boaz is their family redeemer. In Hebrew law, a kinsman-redeemer (go’el) was a relative who had the right to buy back land, marry a widow, and preserve the family name (Leviticus 25:25). Naomi recognizes God’s providence at work, setting up what is about to unfold in the next chapter.
The chapter closes with Ruth continuing to work in Boaz’s fields until the end of the harvest, demonstrating her faithfulness and diligence. God is providing for Naomi and Ruth, not just through food, but through a greater plan of redemption that is unfolding.
In chapter three, Naomi devises a plan for Ruth to seek Boaz as her kinsman-redeemer. Understanding the customs of their time, Naomi instructs Ruth on how to approach Boaz in a way that signals her desire for him to fulfill his role as a go’el, or family redeemer (Leviticus 25:25; Deuteronomy 25:5-10).
Naomi tells Ruth to wash, put on perfume, and dress in her best clothes before going to the threshing floor where Boaz would be sleeping after the harvest (Ruth 3:3). This is not an act of seduction but rather a symbolic gesture. Some scholars suggest that by changing out of her widow’s garments, Ruth is signaling that she is now ready for marriage.
Following Naomi’s instructions, Ruth waits for Boaz to fall asleep, then quietly uncovers his feet and lies down (Ruth 3:7). This phrase, “uncovering his feet,” has sparked much discussion. Some have attempted to assign improper meaning to this phrase, but in the cultural context, it was a symbolic act of submission and a request for protection.
When Boaz wakes up startled, he asks who is there, and Ruth responds with a bold request:
"I am your servant Ruth. Spread the corner of your covering over me, for you are my family redeemer." (Ruth 3:9).
This phrase, "spread the corner of your garment," is significant. In Hebrew, the word for corner (kanaph) is also the word for wing, which connects back to Ruth 2:12 where Boaz had prayed that Ruth would find refuge under the wings of God. Here, Ruth is essentially asking Boaz to be the answer to his own prayer, providing her with the refuge and protection of marriage.
The word "feet" in Ruth 3:7-9 has long been debated for its possible cultural and linguistic implications. Ruth follows Naomi’s instruction to "uncover his feet" and lie down. Many scholars argue that the phrase carries a double meaning—both literal and possibly symbolic or euphemistic.
1. Literal Interpretation:
The simplest understanding is that Ruth literally lay down at Boaz’s actual feet as an act of humility, submission, and request for protection. This fits with the broader biblical use of “sitting at one’s feet” as a position of servitude or learning (e.g., Luke 10:39 with Mary sitting at Jesus’ feet). In this case, Ruth is humbly requesting Boaz to act as her kinsman-redeemer.
2. Feet as a Euphemism for Genitalia:
In ancient Hebrew culture, the word “feet” (רֶגֶל, regel) can serve as a euphemism for male genitalia, similar to its potential use in other parts of the Old Testament. This occurs in texts such as:
• Exodus 4:25 – Zipporah "touches Moses’ feet" with her son’s foreskin, which some scholars interpret as referring to circumcision and possibly Moses’ reproductive role.
• Isaiah 6:2 – The seraphim use two wings to cover their "feet," which some interpret as covering their private parts in reverence before God.
If “feet” is meant as a euphemism in Ruth, Naomi may have been advising Ruth to perform an intimate act or at least to place herself in a position where Boaz would have understood her request as a marriage proposal. This would align with Ancient Near Eastern customs where acts of covering or uncovering could carry marriage implications.
3. Lying at His Feet as a Request for Protection:
Rather than an explicitly sexual act, Ruth's uncovering of Boaz's feet could symbolically mirror a request for marriage and protection under Boaz as the kinsman-redeemer.
• In Ezekiel 16:8, God metaphorically “spreads His garment” over Israel, symbolizing marriage and protection.
• Ruth uses similar language: "Spread the corner of your garment over me, for you are my family redeemer." (Ruth 3:9).
This supports the idea that Ruth is making a marriage proposal in the symbolic language of the time. Uncovering his feet may have been a culturally recognized gesture of submission and request for care rather than an act of seduction.
4. Boaz’s Reaction – A Clue to the Meaning
Boaz reacts favorably and honorably, showing no shock or rebuke (Ruth 3:10-11). If Ruth’s actions were overtly inappropriate, we might expect outrage or even expulsion. Instead, Boaz praises Ruth’s loyalty and kindness, treating her as a righteous woman, which suggests her actions were bold yet culturally appropriate rather than illicit.
Conclusion: A Culturally Loaded Gesture
The act of uncovering Boaz’s feet and lying down appears to be a highly symbolic yet culturally appropriate marriage proposal, not an act of seduction. The phrase "feet" in Hebrew can carry sexual connotations, but the larger context suggests submission, loyalty, and a plea for redemption rather than sexual impropriety.
Ruth, a foreigner and widow, approaches Boaz at night in a vulnerable yet bold way, requesting that he act as her redeemer. Her actions, though unusual, are faithful and righteous, showing her trust in God’s provision through Boaz.
Boaz is moved by Ruth’s character, recognizing that she could have pursued a younger man but instead sought to follow the proper order of redemption in Israel (Ruth 3:10). He assures her that he will redeem her if he is able, but notes that there is another relative closer in line who must be consulted first (Ruth 3:12-13).
Before Ruth leaves in the morning, Boaz gives her six measures of barley, which she carries back in her apron (Ruth 3:15). The number six in Hebrew culture represents incompleteness, as it falls short of seven, the biblical number of completion and rest. This gesture subtly foreshadows the completion of Ruth’s redemption in the next chapter.
Naomi’s plan and Ruth’s boldness defy social norms in multiple ways—Ruth, a Moabite, directly requests redemption from a respected Israelite man, challenging expectations. Yet, God’s providence is at work, using human decisions and customs to weave together His redemptive plan. The cultural practice of the kinsman-redeemer reflects God’s heart for the vulnerable and outcast, prefiguring Jesus, who would one day be the ultimate Redeemer of both Jew and Gentile (Galatians 3:28).
In chapter four, Boaz moves to secure Ruth’s redemption by following the proper legal procedures at the city gate, where legal and business transactions took place in ancient Israel (Ruth 4:1). Boaz gathers ten elders as witnesses, ensuring the matter is handled publicly and lawfully.
Boaz first addresses the closer family redeemer, presenting him with the opportunity to redeem the land that once belonged to Elimelech. Initially, the man is interested—after all, acquiring more land would increase his wealth and inheritance (Ruth 4:3-4). However, Boaz then adds that the land also comes with Ruth, meaning that redeeming it would require him to marry Ruth and produce offspring in Elimelech’s name (Ruth 4:5). At this, the man withdraws, 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).
His response reveals his self-interest—he is unwilling to jeopardize his inheritance by taking on the responsibility of raising children in another man’s name.
The first kinsman-redeemer declined to marry Ruth because it would have endangered his own inheritance (Ruth 4:6). Here are the key reasons why:
1. He Would Have Had to Provide an Heir for Mahlon
• According to Levirate Law (Deuteronomy 25:5-10), if a man died without children, his closest relative was to marry the widow and produce an heir in the name of the deceased husband.
• This meant that Ruth and Boaz’s first son would legally be considered the son of Mahlon, not the first kinsman-redeemer.
• The land that came with Ruth would ultimately pass to this heir, not to the redeemer’s existing family line.
2. Loss of Land & Financial Burden
• By marrying Ruth, the kinsman-redeemer would initially gain land from Elimelech’s estate, but this gain would be temporary.
• Once Ruth bore a son, the land would transfer to Mahlon’s legal heir, meaning the redeemer would have spent money acquiring land only to lose it again.
• He would have also been responsible for providing for Ruth and Naomi, adding to his financial burden without long-term benefits.
3. It Could Affect His Current Inheritance & Family Line
• If the kinsman-redeemer already had sons, marrying Ruth could complicate inheritance rights, potentially requiring him to divide land and resources between both family lines.
• His own sons might receive less inheritance if he took on another household.
• In extreme cases, if he had no sons at the time, Ruth’s child could inherit everything, meaning his name and estate could be lost in favor of Mahlon’s line.
4. Ruth Was a Moabite – Possible Social & Legal Complications
• Moabites were historically excluded from the assembly of Israel (Deuteronomy 23:3), so marrying Ruth may have had social stigma attached to it.
• The Law technically refers to male Moabites, not females, but some Israelites may have seen intermarriage with a Moabite widow as a potential risk to reputation and standing.
5. Fear of Family & Community Judgment
• He may have feared backlash from his existing family or community disapproval, since the inclusion of a Moabite into the family line could be controversial.
• Boaz, however, had the wisdom and standing to recognize Ruth’s faith rather than her nationality (Ruth 2:11-12), whereas the first redeemer may have been less willing to take that risk.
Conclusion: Short-Term Gain, Long-Term Loss
The first kinsman-redeemer would have paid a high price for marrying Ruth but gained little in return. By declining, he protected his own estate and family legacy, allowing Boaz—who was willing to take on the responsibility—to step in as the rightful redeemer. This highlights Boaz’s selfless character, foreshadowing Jesus, our true Redeemer, who sacrifices for us despite the cost.
To finalize the transaction, the man removes his sandal and hands it to Boaz (Ruth 4:7-8). This was an ancient custom symbolizing the transfer of property or legal rights. While it may seem unusual to modern readers, in that time, it served as a public and binding agreement.
With the transaction complete, Boaz marries Ruth, securing her redemption and restoring Naomi’s family line (Ruth 4:9-10). The once-broken household is now rebuilt, reversing the tragedies that had taken place at the beginning of the book.
The story reaches its climax with the birth of Ruth and Boaz’s son, Obed, who becomes the grandfather of King David (Ruth 4:17). The community rejoices, recognizing how God has redeemed Naomi’s family through Ruth’s loyalty and Boaz’s faithfulness.
"Then the women of the town said to Naomi, ‘Praise the Lord, who has now provided a redeemer for your family! May this child be famous in Israel. 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 4:14-15).
The genealogy at the end of Ruth directly connects to Jesus, revealing that God’s redemptive plan was unfolding through unexpected people. The Moabite woman who once seemed like an outsider became a key part of God’s covenant plan.
Boaz’s redemption of Ruth points directly to Jesus, the ultimate Redeemer. Just as Boaz willingly took on the cost of redeeming Ruth, Jesus took on the cost of redeeming humanity. The closer relative in Ruth’s story represents the law, which could not ultimately redeem, while Boaz represents Christ, who provides full redemption through grace.
In the same way that Ruth found a home, security, and a future in Boaz, we find eternal security in Jesus Christ, who restores all things and calls us into His family.
And here we see our Alpha and Omega fulfillments.
In Ruth 3:9, Ruth makes a bold request:
"Spread the corner of your covering over me, for you are my family redeemer."
This act of Ruth seeking Boaz’s protection and redemption is a powerful foreshadowing of how we, too, seek Christ as our Redeemer. The Omega fulfillment of this is seen in Ephesians 1:7:
"He is so rich in kindness and grace that He purchased our freedom with the blood of His Son and forgave our sins."
Boaz’s role as kinsman-redeemer is a profound shadowing of Christ’s redemptive work. Just as Boaz redeemed Ruth, securing her future and bringing her into his family, Jesus redeems us through His sacrifice. By His blood, Christ purchases our freedom from sin and makes us heirs of God’s promises, fulfilling the ultimate act of redemption.
Through Ruth the foreigner, we see that God welcomes outsiders into His covenant family. Our Alpha fulfillment is found in Ruth 1:16:
"Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God."
In our Omega fulfillment, we see the genealogies of Jesus in Matthew 1:5-6:
"Boaz was the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth. Obed was the father of Jesse. Jesse was the father of King David."
Ruth’s story highlights God’s inclusion of outsiders into His redemptive plan. Despite being a Moabite, Ruth’s faith and loyalty brought her into the lineage of Jesus Himself. This mirrors Christ’s mission to redeem all nations, demonstrating God’s boundless grace and His heart for every individual, regardless of background, race, or culture.
In Ruth, we see the foreshadowing of the greatest redemption story:
• She is rescued from despair by Boaz, just as we are rescued from sin and death by Jesus.
• She is brought into a new family, just as we are grafted into God’s family through faith in Christ (Romans 11:17).
• She is given a future and a hope, just as Jesus secures our eternal inheritance (1 Peter 1:3-4).
Just as Ruth found refuge under Boaz’s covering, we find refuge under the grace and salvation of Christ.
And we see the line of David continuing, pointing us directly to Jesus, the eternal King.
In Ruth 4:17, the women of the town recognize the significance of Naomi’s grandson:
"The neighbor women said, 'Now at last Naomi has a son again!' And they named him Obed. He became the father of Jesse and the grandfather of David."
That is King David—the greatest king of Israel and the one through whom God’s covenant promise was made.
In our Omega fulfillment, we see this clearly in Luke 1:32-33:
"He will be very great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of His ancestor David. And He will reign over Israel forever; His Kingdom will never end."
Ruth’s connection to the line of David is a pivotal moment in redemptive history. Her marriage to Boaz and the birth of Obed set the stage for King David, the man after God’s own heart, whose throne God promised would endure forever. This promise finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus, the descendant of David, who reigns eternally as the King of Kings, securing salvation and hope for all.
Ruth’s story is one of faithfulness, love, and redemption. It shows how God works through ordinary people and events to fulfill His extraordinary plan.
• Boaz’s role as a redeemer prefigures Jesus, our ultimate Redeemer.
• Ruth, an outsider, is welcomed into God’s covenant, just as we are welcomed into His family through Christ.
• Naomi, who once called herself Mara (bitter), is restored to fullness and joy, showing how God turns mourning into joy (Psalm 30:11).
Ruth’s journey from famine to fullness, from outsider to family, is a picture of what Jesus has done for us. He redeems, restores, and makes us a part of God’s eternal family.
Just as Boaz provided for Ruth and Naomi, Jesus provides for us in ways beyond what we can imagine.
We need to:
• Trust in His redemption – He has purchased us with His blood and made us co-heirs with Him (Romans 8:17).
• Live in His love – Just as Boaz showed kindness to Ruth, we are called to show the love of Christ to others.
• Share in His kindness with others – Because we have been redeemed, we are called to bring others into the family of God, just as Ruth, an outsider, became a part of the story of Jesus.
Ultimately, Ruth points us to Jesus, the true and better Boaz, the King from David’s line, whose kingdom will never end.
Loyalty is a key theme in the story of Ruth, beautifully illustrated through Ruth’s unwavering commitment to Naomi. As followers of Christ, we are called to display the same loyalty across key areas of our lives. Ruth’s example invites us to consider how loyalty plays a role in our work, friendships, family, and church, and to reflect on when we should stay, when it is appropriate to leave, and the blessings that come from steadfast commitment.
Loyalty in the workplace is an important principle, but discernment is required. There are times when leaving a job is necessary, particularly when ethical compromises or harmful environments make it spiritually damaging. Some workplace cultures can be toxic for Christians, pulling them away from their faith or forcing them into compromising situations. If a job begins to corrupt one’s morals, then it is time to seek employment elsewhere. However, how one leaves is just as important as the decision itself. It should be done with grace, integrity, and without burning bridges.
Many people fall into the trap of thinking that the grass is greener in another job, assuming that money, title, or status will bring satisfaction. Yet leaving solely for these reasons often leads to disappointment. Contentment does not come from a bigger paycheck or a promotion. Paul writes in 1 Timothy 6:6-10 that true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. If someone is discontent in their work, they should examine whether the issue lies with the job or within their own heart. A phrase often heard is, “Wherever you go, there you are.” If someone is unhappy or unfulfilled, simply changing jobs will not fix the core issues. True joy comes from within, and work alone cannot provide that.
We are also called to be faithful witnesses in our workplaces, even in difficult environments. 1 Peter 2:18-21 exhorts believers to endure hardship with patience, not for wrongdoing but as a testimony to Christ. "For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in His steps" (1 Peter 2:21). Workplaces can often be challenging, filled with difficult people or unfair treatment, but Christians are called to shine as lights in the midst of darkness. This doesn’t mean enduring abuse or unethical situations, but rather responding with integrity, patience, and grace, showing the character of Christ through our actions. Just as Ruth’s faithfulness in a foreign land led to her redemption, so too can our steadfastness in challenging work environments serve as a testimony that draws others toward Christ.
Changing one’s environment does not automatically change a person. Personal growth requires internal work, and new workplaces will not suddenly transform character or work ethic. Scripture reminds us that faithfulness in small things leads to greater opportunities. Loyalty in work often brings trust, promotion, and deeper relationships. Just as Ruth found favor because of her faithfulness, remaining steadfast in a job where God has placed someone can lead to unexpected blessings. Employers test reliability, and promotion often comes to those who have been tested and proven faithful.
Loyalty applies to friendships as well. There are times when it is necessary to leave certain relationships, especially when they are toxic or pull us away from Christ. Paul warns in 1 Corinthians 15:33, “Bad company corrupts good character.” Friendships should build us up in faith, not drag us into sin or compromise. While we are called to love all people, we must also use wisdom in choosing our close companions. Constant negativity, narcissism, or emotionally abusive relationships can be damaging, and in some cases, it is necessary to love people from a distance.
At the same time, we must recognize that the grass is not always greener when it comes to friendships. Trading old friends for new, shallow ones rarely satisfies the deeper longing for authentic relationships. True friendship is built over time, through trust, loyalty, and shared experiences. If someone continually cycles through friendships, always searching for something better, they may never find the depth they desire.
Another truth to consider is that wherever you go, there you are. Relationship issues often follow us because we carry the same insecurities, hurts, and patterns into new friendships. Before blaming others for relational difficulties, it is wise to ask an important question: What was my role in this? Personal growth requires self-reflection. Proverbs 19:11 reminds us, “Sensible people control their temper; they earn respect by overlooking wrongs.” If conflict repeatedly arises in friendships, the common denominator may not be the friends but the unresolved issues within ourselves.
Simply changing friends will not necessarily change a person. Lasting transformation requires intentional growth in character, not just a shift in social circles. We must be willing to examine our hearts, correct our flaws, and become the kind of friend we wish to have.
There are great rewards for staying committed to true friendships. Loyalty cultivates lifelong relationships rooted in trust and mutual respect. As Proverbs 27:17 declares, “As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.” Faithful friendships refine us, challenge us, and encourage us to grow in Christ. I once heard the phrase, “Don’t trust anyone without old friends, because you won’t be one.” The test of true friendship is time. Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi led to incredible blessings, and in the same way, steadfast friendships produce the kind of deep, meaningful bonds that cannot be easily replaced.
Loyalty applies deeply to both family and marriage. Scripture is clear that leaving a marriage is only permitted in specific circumstances—abandonment, adultery, or abuse—and even in these cases, reconciliation should always be prayerfully considered when safe and possible. Matthew 19:9 states, “And I tell you this, whoever divorces his wife and marries someone else commits adultery—unless his wife has been unfaithful.” Similarly, 1 Corinthians 7 addresses various aspects of marriage and separation, underscoring the seriousness of lifelong commitment.
Even in cases where divorce is permitted due to abandonment, adultery, or abuse, Scripture still calls believers to be witnesses of Christ, even in difficult situations. 1 Peter 3:1-2 speaks directly to this, encouraging Christian spouses to live in such a way that their unbelieving partners “will be won over by observing your pure and reverent lives.” This doesn’t mean staying in a harmful or unsafe situation, but rather that our faithfulness to Christ should remain unwavering, whether in marriage, separation, or any difficult circumstance. Likewise, 1 Corinthians 7:12-16 speaks of believers staying with their unbelieving spouses if the unbeliever is willing, emphasizing that a Christian's presence in a marriage can be a testimony of God's grace and lead to salvation. While there are times when separation is necessary, there are also times when enduring difficulties as a faithful witness to Christ may bring redemption into a broken situation.
There are significant consequences for leaving a marriage. Broken marriages often lead to lifelong emotional wounds, strained relationships with children and extended family, and a repeated cycle of relational brokenness. While there is no such thing as a generational curse in Christ, many who grow up in homes affected by divorce find themselves struggling in their own marriages. As a pastor, I have heard many people express their fear of repeating the past, worried that the difficulties their parents faced will inevitably become their own. Divorce also has a way of damaging personal testimony and hindering spiritual growth, often leaving individuals feeling lost and uncertain about God’s plan for them.
The illusion that the grass is greener often leads people to chase fleeting happiness outside of their marriage, only to discover that their struggles follow them. Pursuing new relationships for shallow reasons—whether personal dissatisfaction, emotional excitement, or sexual desires—rarely leads to true fulfillment. The excitement of something new inevitably wears off, and without true commitment, the cycle simply continues. The reality remains: wherever you go, there you are. Changing spouses won’t magically solve personal issues. Marital struggles often reveal deep-rooted problems that must be addressed individually. If someone consistently struggles with trust, insecurity, or selfishness, these issues won’t disappear with a new relationship. Proverbs 4:23 reminds us, “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.” True change starts within.
A new partner won’t necessarily change a person. Healthy marriages are built on humility, sacrifice, and a willingness to grow together. There is no perfect spouse, and no relationship is free from struggle. Ephesians 5:25 calls husbands to “love their wives, just as Christ loved the church. He gave up his life for her.” This level of self-sacrifice is what sustains marriage—not personal gain or temporary happiness.
Yet, there are incredible rewards for staying. Deep intimacy, trust, and spiritual maturity grow through years of faithful commitment. Just as Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi led to a redeemed family line and a lasting legacy, staying committed through the difficulties of marriage leads to an unshakable bond. God blesses those who remain steadfast in their vows, teaching them deeper lessons about love, patience, and grace.
Loyalty also applies to the church. When is it appropriate to leave a church? There are legitimate reasons—severe doctrinal errors, spiritual abuse, or leadership steeped in unrepentant sin. 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1 outline clear qualifications for church leaders, and when these standards are continually violated, accountability is necessary. However, many leave churches for superficial reasons—personal preferences about worship styles, small disagreements, or minor conflicts. These are not reasons to abandon a church family.
Leaving a church has significant consequences. Constantly changing churches creates instability in one’s spiritual growth, leading to a lack of deep discipleship and fractured relationships within the body of Christ. It also wounds those left behind, weakening the overall church community. When members walk away, it can discourage others, making them question their own place in the church. As it has been said, when someone leaves, it often feels like an amputation—part of the body is missing.
Paul uses the metaphor of the body of Christ in 1 Corinthians 12, demonstrating that every member is essential. Even the smallest, most unseen parts serve an irreplaceable function. This means that when people leave, their absence is felt, no matter their role. In a smaller church, the impact is even more pronounced. A thumb may seem small, but it is vital for grasping and movement. Likewise, every believer has a role, and when they remove themselves from the body, the whole church suffers.
It is also important to remember that the grass is not greener. Many leave churches because they feel that another congregation has better music, programs, or social appeal. But church-hopping rarely leads to deeper faith. Instead, it fosters a consumer mentality, where people treat church as a product rather than a family. Hebrews 10:25 urges us, “And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” Church is about commitment to Christ and to one another, not personal convenience.
Wherever you go, there you are. The perfect church does not exist, because every church is filled with imperfect people. No congregation will be free from problems, disagreements, or frustrations. The question is not whether a church is flawless, but whether we are willing to work through difficulties in love and unity. Changing churches won’t necessarily change a person. Spiritual maturity requires consistency, accountability, and humility—things that can’t be developed if we constantly uproot ourselves.
There are profound rewards for staying. Loyalty to a local church fosters deep relationships, spiritual depth, and a genuine sense of community. Just as Ruth’s commitment placed her in the lineage of Christ, long-term faithfulness to a church allows believers to experience the richness of Christ’s love through committed relationships.
Reflecting on my own life, I see how these principles have shaped me. At times, I was tempted to change jobs, believing something better awaited elsewhere. Yet, I realized that faithfulness in one place often led to unexpected blessings. As a former employer, I viewed frequent job changes as a red flag. Stability and loyalty matter in professional settings, just as they do in spiritual ones.
Marriage, too, has been a journey of growth. My wife’s battle with addiction could have led to destruction, but through God’s grace, she is now ten years sober. Many in recovery circles have stories of divorce, but by staying committed, we have witnessed God’s transformative power. Marriage is not easy, but true love is not found in perfection—it is forged in trials and strengthened through endurance.
The church has also been a place of testing and transformation. Our church has gone through many difficult seasons, including years where pastors were quickly discarded if their sermons challenged too many people. The church lacked stability, leadership was weak, and members operated as if they could vote on truth itself. But by staying, I witnessed God’s provision. He provided me with mentors, training, and ultimately, a calling to shepherd this congregation. Had I left, I would have missed the deep friendships and spiritual growth that now define my life.
Like Ruth, our loyalty in work, friendships, family, and church shapes who we become and how God uses us. When we commit to faithfulness, even when tempted to chase what seems easier or better, God rewards that commitment with deeper relationships, greater spiritual maturity, and lasting peace.
Loyalty teaches us valuable lessons. Ruth’s commitment to Naomi shows the power of steadfast love in relationships. Are we reflecting that kind of loyalty in our own lives? Integrity, as demonstrated by Boaz and Ruth, is crucial—do others see us as trustworthy and faithful? Ruth, a Moabite, became part of God’s covenant people, reminding us that God welcomes all. No one is beyond His love, regardless of background, history, or past failures.
The inclusion of Ruth in Jesus’ family tree is a powerful statement. If God welcomed her, He welcomes us. But do we extend that same love to others? Galatians 3:28 reminds us, “There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Are we willing to break down the walls of division—racial, political, or cultural—to show the love of Christ?
Loyalty to God, His people, and His purposes brings true blessings. Ruth’s story is a reminder that God's plans are always good. He brings beauty from ashes, redemption from loss, and fullness from famine. Even when life seems uncertain, He is working behind the scenes for our good. Romans 8:28 assures us, “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.”
True transformation does not come from changing our circumstances but from allowing God to shape us right where we are. Stay loyal. God blesses those who remain faithful.
©️ Copyright 2025 Gene Simco Most Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Scriptures in brackets reflect the original Biblical languages.