Ruth 4:1-12: The Redeemer Steps Up

The book of Ruth is like a beautiful short story full of love, loyalty, and unexpected twists. In chapter 4, we reach the exciting climax where everything falls into place.

What’s Happening?

Boaz, the kind landowner who has been so good to Ruth, isn’t just any guy. He’s a kinsman-redeemer. That’s a fancy title for a relative who has the responsibility to take care of family matters, like protecting a widow or buying back land. In this scene, Boaz goes to the city gate, where important decisions are made, to sort things out publicly. There’s another relative closer to Naomi’s family who has the first right to be the redeemer.

Boaz says to this other guy, “Hey, Naomi is back, and she’s selling some land. You’re the closest relative, so you have the first chance to buy it back.” But there’s a catch! If this guy buys the land, he also needs to marry Ruth and provide for her. This would mean the land would stay in the family, and Ruth would be taken care of. The other relative backs out. He doesn’t want the responsibility. This is Boaz’s chance!

Boaz declares, “Since you’re not stepping up, I will! I’ll buy the land, and I’ll marry Ruth!” Everyone at the city gate is happy and gives Boaz and Ruth their blessing. They wish them a happy marriage and lots of children.

Why Does This Matter?

This story isn’t just about land deals and weddings. It’s about:

• God’s provision: Even when things look bleak (like when Naomi lost her husband and sons), God is working behind the scenes to care for His people.
• Redemption: Boaz becomes a “redeemer” for Ruth, saving her from a difficult situation and giving her a new start. It’s a beautiful picture of how Jesus redeems us.
• Love and Loyalty: Ruth and Boaz show incredible loyalty to each other and to Naomi. This kind of love is rare and valuable.

Think About It

1. Have you ever felt like God stepped in and helped you when you needed it most?
2. What does the word “redemption” mean to you? How has Jesus been a redeemer in your life?
3. Why are loyalty and love so important in relationships? How can you show these qualities to the people you care about?
4. What do you think Ruth was feeling during this scene? What about Boaz?

This story in Ruth is like a puzzle piece that fits perfectly into the larger story of the Bible. It points us toward Jesus, the ultimate Redeemer, who stepped up to save us even though it cost Him everything.