Ruth 1: Loyalty, Faith and Commitment

Introduction: The Book of Ruth is a beautiful narrative that celebrates faith, commitment, and loyalty, even in the midst of despair. Ruth chose to follow her mother-in-law Naomi back to Bethlehem after facing heavy losses in Moab and demonstrates remarkable strength and resilience. This theological review of Ruth Chapter 1 unveils the strength of Ruth, her steadfast faith, and love for God.

I. Ruth 1:1-5: A Time of Great Loss
The narrative begins in a time of famine in Bethlehem, causing Elimelek and his family to relocate to Moab. Tragedy strikes when Elimelek and his two sons, Mahlon and Kilion die, leaving his wife Naomi and two Moabite daughters-in-law, Ruth and Orpah, widowed. The story sets the stage for a grand revelation of God’s providential care for the bereaved. This is similar to Job 1:21 where Job loses everything yet acknowledges God’s sovereignty.

II. Ruth 1:6-14: Naomi’s Decision to Return
Naomi, after hearing that the Lord had come to the aid of His people in Bethlehem, decides to return home. She urges her daughters-in-law to return to their maternal homes, highlighting her selflessness and love for them. The situation mirrors Abraham’s call to leave Ur in Genesis 12:1, where God assures His providential care.

III. Ruth 1:15-18: Ruth’s Unwavering Commitment
Ruth’s commitment to Naomi and God is profound. She insists on staying with Naomi, stating, “Your people will be my people and your God my God” (Ruth 1:16). This act of faith and commitment is reminiscent of Joshua’s commitment to serve the Lord in Joshua 24:15.

IV. Ruth 1:19-22: Return to Bethlehem
Upon their return to Bethlehem, Naomi is recognized despite her years of absence. Overwhelmed with sadness, she asks to be called Mara, meaning bitter, in reflection of her life’s afflictions (Ruth 1:20). This evokes Job’s lamentations in Job 3:1-26 after his suffering. However, the chapter ends on a hopeful note, with barley harvest beginning, foreshadowing God’s provision (Ruth 1:22).

V. Cross-References
Ruth’s faith is comparable to that of Abraham in Romans 4:3. Her loyalty to Naomi mirrors Jonathan’s loyalty to David in 1 Samuel 20:17. Her foreigner status, yet inclusion in God’s plan, echoes Ephesians 2:19. Her determination and work ethic are reflected in Proverbs 31:17. The theme of redemption in the Book of Ruth foreshadows Christ’s redemption in Ephesians 1:7.

Conclusion: The first chapter of Ruth showcases Ruth’s strength, loyalty, and unwavering faith in God. Through her trials, Ruth emerges as a woman of noble character, setting a strong foundation for the rest of the book. The chapter is a testament to God’s providence and His concern for the marginalized. As we see in this chapter and throughout the Bible, God’s plans are often fulfilled in unexpected ways, pointing to His supreme wisdom and sovereign control.