December 13, 2021
Body Language: Baby of Joy
The Christian hope jumps into history in the most unlikely and improbable way: a baby. Incarnation. God with us. Immanuel. And no one saw it coming.
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Ruth 4:13-22
Message Questions:
If you’re meeting as a group: read Ruth 4:13-22.
If you’re using these questions solo or with a partner: read the whole book of Ruth.*
- Ruth 1:1 indicates this story comes from the “days when the Judges ruled.” What was life like in those days? (If you’re uncertain, read a couple of pages from the book of Judges.)
- What was Israel’s relationship like with Moab? If you’re uncertain you can read Judges 3:12-30, Numbers 22:1-6, or even go back to the original ‘bad blood’ in Genesis 19:30-38 (gross!). Explain how this reflected poorly on Ruth and every other Moabite.
- Recall or research the story of Naomi’s “sad tale of woes.” Describe how she might have felt justified in turning her back on the God of Israel.
- God is good AND he often uses people like Boaz to show his goodness. Tell of a time that a “Boaz” or a “Ruth” stepped into some trouble you were having and redeemed a calamity.
- Explain the significance of the Bible including Ruth in the family line that reaches to David (and Jesus!—see Matthew 1:5). Is there something in your background or history that you have felt disqualified you? What might God be saying to you about that from the book of Ruth?
*If you do read the book of Ruth, please let me know. I’m curious to know if anyone does this!
Extend your small group discussion with the expanded guide for today’s message. It includes more questions and soul training practices for you and your small group.
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