JOSHUA - fourthstreamJoshua, Jericho, Achan, and Ai! Read Chapters 5-8 Page 6. KEY QUESTIONS: 1. Why...

JOSHUA

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Welcome to the book of Joshua! To begin your study of this book of conquest, meditate on the book's content reflected in the overview chart below. What are the major movements of the book? Joshua provides the anticipated transition from wandering to Israel's life of occupying the land "flowing with milk and honey". It is a book of military action and godly expectation. Israel is now prepared to take possession of what God had promised so long ago! This new generation is prepared for war, and unlike their fathers, ready to encounter the rigors of what appear to be insurmountable odds.

The book of Joshua reveals principles of being a warrior of God. God's desire was to fight on behalf of His people, just as He does for those who belong to Christ today! As we enter these historical books, pay close attention to God's actions on behalf of the Jews, and their willingness to move forward by faith.

Open your heart as you read! God is not as often interested in the achievements of His children as He is in their character growth as they encounter adversity. It is as spiritual warriors that we impact eternity (Ephesians 6:10-20). Do you have a desire to be God's warrior? Are you prepared to war in God's power and by the strength of His might!? Our struggle is not against flesh and blood!

"The land flowing with milk and honey!" 11:23

1-12 12-21 22-24

LAND CONTESTED

1:5-9; 5:14,15 6:10; 7:5; 9:14

JOSHUA Conquest

Joshua Goodbye

LAND DIVIDED

13:1; 14:5-9

AUTHOR AND NAME The Hebrew name Joshua, or Jehoshua, means the Lord saves (or delivers). Its Greek name equivalent is Jesus. This name applies well to Joshua, the son of Nun, who led God's people to victory and deliverance from her enemies as she entered and occupied the land of Canaan.

DATE Because Jerusalem was inhabited by Jebusites (18:16, 28) and the fact that Rahab, the harlot, was still alive at the time of the writing (6:25) indicate an early date. The narrative describes events covering a period of about thirty years and was probably written between 1400 and 1350 B.C.

PURPOSE Joshua is a book of conquest. It begins where Deuteronomy leaves off. The history of Israel's seven year military campaign over Canaan under the leadership of Joshua, and the con-quest and consolidation of the land under the twelve tribes is recounted.

You will quickly discover the symbol of warfare in the book of Joshua. There is a warfare parallel between that of the Jew of Joshua and believer of today, especially with the book of Ephesians. Note some of the battle similarities: 1. Both books speak of a rich inheritance for the heirs of God. 2. Both books reveal how victory is gained despite and even because of conflict. 3. Both books make it strikingly clear that the life of a believer is a battleground, not a playground. 4. In Joshua, the Israelites are equipped and energized by God as they encounter formidable enemies. The same is true of the warrior-believer of today (Ephesians 6:12-18).

While the sons of Israel conquered their enemies in the land of Canaan, as believers through faith we are assured that we can be more than conquerors through Him who loved us, (Romans 8:37).

WHY STUDY THE BOOK OF JOSHUA? 1. This book emphasizes an important principle for the local church today of the need for unity and working together. It took all twelve tribes to go in and conquer the land, and it takes each member of a local body working together to go and conquer your "Jerusalem" for Jesus Christ. 2. The man, Joshua, serves as a worthy example of the local church leader today--a godly leader who faithfully guided the nation Israel into their promised inheritance. As a leader, you might not get the recognition of a Joshua; but then God did not call you to be flattered, but to be faithful in your responsibilities. 3. This book also shows the devastating effect the disobedience of a single individual (Achan) can have on a people. One member's sin in a church can bring defeat to that church as a whole if it is not dealt with according to the Scriptures.

KEY QUESTIONS: 1. What kind of success was Joshua promised? 2. On what was that success to be based? 3. How did the report of these two spies differ from that of the twelve spies in Numbers 13? 4. Why would God choose a harlot to protect the two spies? 5. What makes Rahab special? 6. What is the significance of the "scarlet cord"?

What about today? 1. What does 1:8 have to do with the believer of today? 2. What kind of a spy would you have made for Joshua? 3. What are your standards for prosperity and success and what are the standards of your culture? The standards of your friends with whom you associate? Paul's perspective on success involved three things (2 Timothy 4:7,8). What are they and how does each one relate to your current spiritual victories?

My thoughts on what brings about spiritual victory:

Chapter Title Key Verse

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Preparing for Victory Read Chapters 1-2

A Bread of Life Bible Study Guide. Copyright 1990.

Joshua Chapter Chart

KEY QUESTIONS: 1. Why was it necessary for Joshua's authority to be validated? 2. How did God choose to make that validation and why? 3. Why were the memorial stones important and why do you think that there were two sets? 4. What was the result of Joshua's validation? Among the Jews? Among the surrounding nations? 5. What sense do you get for the personality and leadership style of Joshua?

What about today? 1. What did crossing the Jordan symbolize for the Jews? What does it symbolize for you? 2. How do memorials affect your life? What memorials do you have? Why are they important?

God has told the Jews that He will do their fighting for them! Read Romans 8:31-39 with regard to God fighting for us. In what ways do you see God specifically fighting for you?

My thoughts about memorials in my life:

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5

Over the Jordan! Read Chapters 3-5

KEY QUESTIONS: 1. Why was it necessary to circumcise the nation once again? Why do you think that they were not circumcised "along the way"? 2. Why did the manna cease? What does this tell you about the Jews' relationship to the manna? 3. How would you have felt if you were approaching Jericho and received your orders? 4. What part was the ark now playing in the lives of the sons of Israel? How did this differ from its previous role? 5. What were the lessons about "things under the ban" and why were they necessary? Why was Achan dealt with so harshly? 6. How could God allow (and even command) such brutal killing of entire cities?

What about today? Joshua encountered God in much the same manner as Moses did at the burning bush (5:13-15). Why is that significant? What does Joshua learn from the answer to his question? What can we learn from the answer? Note the place of the law among the warriors (8:34, 35).

My thoughts about justice when it comes to the loss of human life:

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Joshua, Jericho, Achan, and Ai! Read Chapters 5-8

KEY QUESTIONS: 1. Why did the Gideonites do what they did? What does this tell you about these people, (note 10:2)? 2. What were the short range affects of this deception? 3. What do you think would be the long-term implications? 4. What actually happened in 10:12-15 and why is it remarkable? 5. How complete was the conquest and how do you view the harshness of it? 6. Note the summary verse for Joshua, found in 11:23. Why does this make a good summary verse for the book, and are there others that you would choose?

What about today? The leaders of the people made a far-reaching error by not consulting the Lord concerning the Gideonites (9:14). It is easy to isolate our "real life" decisions as separate from our "spiritual" decisions. In God's sight, all of the decisions that we make have kingdom impact. To be too independent or in too much of a hurry to request God's counsel can be very costly! What did James indicate about this subject (James 4:13-17)? How do you measure up in this area?!

My thoughts about God's guidance:

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The Final Battle!? Read Chapters 9-12

KEY QUESTIONS: 1. What has happened to Joshua? 2. How was Caleb's memory? 3. What was Caleb's inheritance? 4. Why was it important to apportion the land? 5. What sense do you get for the military climate as you consider 17:12-18? Has there been a shift? If so, what has caused it?

What about today? The inheritance of the Jews was specific by tribe. They received their own land, and their own challenges for settlement. Ephesians 1 talks about the inheritance of the believer. Though the land was a gift, inhabiting it took faithful obedience and rigorous warfare. What would be some correlation to a believer today?

My thoughts about my inheritance:

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15

17

The Land is Divided! Read Chapters 13-17

KEY QUESTIONS: 1. What was the method for the remaining apportioning of the land? 2. What was the inheritance of Joshua? 3. What was the purpose of the city of refuge? 4. What made the altar offensive? 5. What was the chief concern over this bogus altar? 6. What similarities and differences do you notice between Joshua's goodbye and that of Moses? 7. Why is the final act of the book significant?

What about today? Just as 11:23 summarizes the events of the book, 24:14, 15 reveal the spiritual message of Joshua. What is your resolve for your household? How do we communicate a resolve such as this to our own family members?

My thoughts about how my household can serve the Lord:

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21

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23

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We Will Serve the Lord! Read Chapters 18-24

God uses the metaphor of being a soldier over and over in the scriptures. It is apparently His intent that we see life as a battle, and that we engage that battle with all the wisdom and zeal that we possibly can provide.

Read the following passages. What do they teach us about what it means to be a God-pleasing warrior? What do they teach us about the nature of the battle? What do they teach us about being "ready?"

Ephesians 6:10-20

2 Timothy 4:1-8

Revelation 19:11-16

As you reflect upon the battles that occurred during the time period of Joshua, what principles of God fighting "for us" do you see?

In what ways do you see a battle occurring in your own life?

What is the difference between seeing the "battle" with flesh and blood or as a part of an even bigger picture?

When you think about the "armor of God" where do you stand?

WHEN YOU ARE A SOLDIER

Joshua Goodbye

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JUDGES

Welcome to the Book of Judges! To understand the book of Judges, we must first understand that it represents yet another transition in human leadership for the Jews. Consider the transition from Moses to Joshua. While Joshua was certainly a courageous warrior and man of faith (Joshua 14:8), he didn't wield the same authority given by God to Moses. Why do you think this was true? The book of Judges begins with the death of Joshua. Israel perceives a need for a leader to fight for them. Notice that God's answer to this need does not center on one person as it had before. Why do you think that this was true?

As you consider the overview below and look up the references in each section, examin-ing how each relates to God's desire to lead His people on righteous paths and to deliver them from bondage.

Open your heart as you read! In Judges we see cycles of sin that inevitably occur because of mankind's refusal to ac-knowledge and abide by the leadership of our Heavenly King. The generations during the period of the Judges of Israel had not seen firsthand the wonders in Egypt. There is no mistaking God's hand of deliverance from their oppression through the judges He raises up. Consider the subtle-ties of the compromises that lead to oppression. See if you can draw correlations to your own walk of faith from the examples given in this instructive book!

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1-2 3-18Every man did what was right in his own eyes! 17:6

JUDGES CyclesClimate for Testing

No Leader (1:1)No Persistance (1:27)No Knowledge (2:10)No Power (2:20-23)

No Commitment (2:1-3)

No Perspective (8:22-23)No Appreciation (8:33-35)

No Loyalty (10:13)No Conscience (19:22-30)

No Choice (20:3,18)No Understanding (21:3)

Climate for Compromise

AUTHOR AND NAME The authorship of this book is uncertain, though Jewish tradition attributes it to Samuel. It is most likely that Samuel edited and compiled the records, as he is the link between the period of the judges and kings and was the most prominent spokesman for God during this time period. The title of the book is based on the type of leadership Israel experienced during the period after the death of Joshua and up to the ascension of King Saul to the throne. There are fourteen military leaders or "judges" mentioned in the book. These judges involved themselves in delivering and ruling over the tribes of Israel. The establishment of the office of judge was first mentioned by Moses (Deuteronomy 16:18; 17:9; 19:17).

DATE Both internal evidence and tradition suggest an origin for the book of Judges during the early years of the monarchy. Davis, in Conquest and Crisis, says that it appears that the book was most likely written sometime in the latter days of Saul or in the early days of David for the following reasons: 1. The Jebusites (1:21) still controlled Jerusalem, hence a date before 990 B.C. 2. The Canaanites still controlled Gezer (1:29), hence a date before Solomon's reign.

OTHER BACKGROUND Someone has called the book of Judges the account of the dark ages of the Israelites. The people forsook God (2:13), and God forsook the people (2:23). The period of the Judges lasted about four centuries. It was unique in that it was a period of great hope, but often resulted in great disappoint-ment. The reason there was such hope and promise for Israel was because their form of government had God as sole ruler. This form of government is call a theocracy. God desired this for His people. It would cause them to depend more completely on Him. But the people rebelled, disobeyed, and began to turn away from their God. The theological term for such behavior is "apostasy". Apostasy often begins by passively withdrawing and later actively rebelling against God. In Judges, the nation moves through the same five step cycle of apostasy a total of seven times. Each of these periods of apostasy are marked off by the words, "and the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord" (3:7, 12; 4:1; 6:1; 8:33; 10:6; 13:1). It is interesting to note that God caused these dark periods in Israel's history (3:8, 12: 4:2; 10:7; 13:1). These were punishments, not accidents. In the life of the believer today, there are no accidents, only incidents, divinely planned or allowed by God for our benefit.

PURPOSE The book of Judges was written in retrospect, viewing the condition of a nation tested by God to see if they would follow Him. But disregarding God and His standards, each man "did what was right in his own eyes." The resulting cycles (Idolatry-Bondage-Deliverance) are written as examples (1 Corinthians 10:1-14) for US - both of the consequences of sin and the faithfulness of God.

Why Study the Book of Judges? In our present society the banner theme is "do what is right in your own eyes." Along with that viewpoint resides an attitude that what someone else does is none of your concern. Hopefully through the study of Judges we can see the need to overcome such attitudes and begin to see Jesus' authority to rule and reign over our lives. There will always be cycles as long as we live, but the length and depth of these cycles can be greatly impacted by understanding and commitment - and insight from the good and bad examples in the book of Judges.

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KEY QUESTIONS:1. What is the one phrase that is repeated over and over that represents Israel's primary transgression? What reasons can you see from the context to explain this? What character qualities are lacking in the hearts of the nation?2. Compare 2:22-23 with 23:30. What were the people supposed to learn?

What about today? Do you make it your goal to drive "inhabiting sin" out of your life? As Paul states in Romans 13:14, "Make no provision for the flesh in regard to its lusts." Do you take seri-ously the warning that "bad company corrupts good morals" (1 Corinthians 15:33)? It is easy to think that we can maintain close worldly relationships, enjoy the apparent benefits that these relationships provide, and not fall victim to the consequent thorns and snares. This is a great deception! Remember what we learned from Genesis 4:7!

My thoughts on driving the inhabitants of the land out of my life:


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Climate for Testing Read Chapters 1-2

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KEY QUESTIONS: 1. God was all too aware of Israel's disobedience. In what sense was leaving these foreign nations within Israel a test (3:1-5) 2. Other than delivering Israel from oppression, what was the function of the judges? (3:10)

What about today? Often as we test the waters of sin, they seem quite pleasant. It is usually too late by the time we realize we are in over our heads. Are you harboring a seemingly harmless area of disobedience or sin? We must learn to realize that we are being tested to see if we will follow our Lord as did our forefathers in faith. This apparently included a precious minority from the time period of the Judges of Israel as well!

My thoughts on the factors that cause me to forget my God:

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Forgotten God Read Chapters 3-5

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KEY QUESTIONS:1. What was Israel's sin? (6:10)2. Would you consider Gideon's response to God's call a lack of faith?3. Do you think Gideon lacked courage?4. Why was Gideon unwilling to be ruler of the people?

What about today?What would you consider to be the gods in your world? How could fearing any of today's gods alter your worship of the Most High God? In what ways do feel that you recognize the Spirit's leadership in your life?

My thoughts about following God by faith in the midst of difficult and sinful times:

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Gideon the Judge Read Chapters 6-8

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KEY QUESTIONS:1. What kind of interpersonal conflicts did Gideon experience?2. What do you learn about his character and the character of those with whom he was dealing?3. What are some of the pitfalls associated with kings and rulers that are presented in these chapters?4. What words would you choose to describe the conditions of this time period?

What about today? Gideon's perspective, which he apparently passed on to his sons, was that his lead-ership was restricted to himself and his family. When called Gideon responded to God for a specific task and then returned to his primary position in life. When they sought to make Jesus king, do you remember His response (John 2:23-25)? This is a good thing to ponder as you are enticed and pressured by the others to expend your energies for the goals and aspirations of others!

My thoughts on experiencing distinction in a time of disruption:

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Israel's Judges! Read Chapters 8-12

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KEY QUESTIONS:1. What was the ultimate source of Samson's strength?2. What was his downfall and how does this reflect the spiritual moral, and ethical climate in Israel at the time?3. What are the obvious indicators of Samson's spiritual condition?4. Why do you think the Philistines were such a thorn in the side of the Jews?5. Consider the subject of "eyes" as Samson's weaknesses unfold!6. How does the story of Samson make you feel?

What about today?Do you know where your strength lies? Is it something that you choose to protect? Do you know where your particular strengths are vulnerable?How does a person put limitations on what captures his or her eyes?

My thoughts about recognition of true strength:

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Weakness & Strength! Read Chapters 13-16

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KEY QUESTIONS:1. Consider how far the idolatry has developed since the early chapters of the book. Over 400 years have elapsed and the tribe of Dan still has no inheritance in the land.2. Why do you think that after the death of each judge there was a return to apostasy? What does this teach us?3. We chose our key verse to explain the extent of the idolatry and moral decline. Review the verse. Why is it a good representation of the spiritual message of the book?

What about today? Where does the blame fall for idolatry and moral decline in our society? In the church? In our own lives? Do we even have a problem with moral decay in America? As you hold your life up to the standard of Jesus Christ let Him rule and reign over the natural tides of decay that can roll over us and rob our spiritual lives! (Colossians 3:15; 1 Peter 4:1-7)

My thoughts about moral decay over time:


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Idolatry's Depths Read Chapters 17-18

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KEY QUESTIONS:1. Here we see a continuing search for someone who will take leadership in battle. The Lord's answer remains constant! What was the tribe of Judah's role supposed to be? Should they have needed to ask?2. What is the repeated question asked in these chapters? (20:3, 12; 21:3) Consider 1:21 as the beginning of the answer to this ongoing question.

What about today? Are we taking responsibility to lead by example in the areas over which we have influence? One cannot ask "How do these things happen?" without knowing that idolatry and moral decline are a direct result of rejecting God's authority in our lives! Just as God wished to rule in the lives of the people who lived during the time of the Judges of Israel, He wishes to rule us through hearts that are made clean by renewing though His Word!

The challenge is no different today. Our ability and responsibility to comply re-mains. May we find a personal response of faith to our personal God! (Hebrews 11:6)

My thoughts about escaping the pitfalls found in Judges:

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Moral Decline Read Chapters 19-21

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The cycles of apostasy we see in the book of Judges are specific and graphic. If seen through the eyes of a weak faith, this would seem to indicate a hopelessness in our earthly walk. As we look at the progressive steps that led to Israel's bondage, hopefully we can learn how to help each other avoid making similar errors.

Step 1 Neglected Relationship (Judges 2:10) This verse says a lot about the previous generation's failure to pass on the personal reality of the God who had done such miraculous things for them - as they left Egypt and wandered in the wilderness. It is not enough to tell stories about God to each other or to our children. We must be seen expressing our reverence, awe, thankfulness, and familiarity with Christ if others are to hunger for their own personal knowledge. Read Hebrews 11 several times and consider each personal expression of faith and draw comparisons to your expressions of faith. Note also 2 Samuel 6:14-21. It can be all too easy to be caught up in our obedience to external standards and lose sight of God Himself. (2 Corinthians. 11:2; John 17:3; Luke 10:41-42)

Step 2 Rejected Standard (1:19) The beginning of Israel's failure to keep God's covenant was the people's failure to completely drive out and destroy the inhabitants of the land (1:19, 21, 27). A key word in verse 27 is the word "persisted." Un-fortunately, it applied to the Canaanites instead of the Israelites. To God, compromise is synonymous with rejection. It is easy to read verses 22 and 23 of chapter one and lay down your weapons and quit. This time the key word is "quickly." God's plan was for Israel to progressively possess the land, (Exodus 23:30), step by step. When keeping God's standard seems to be difficult, can we change the standard because of our circumstances?

Step 3 Redirected Faith (3:7) We are, by nature, creatures of faith. What remains to be determined is where we will place that faith. Do you have an understanding of what constitutes an idol in today's society? An idol is anything in which you put your trust, desire, or energy to the exclusion of God. Most idols are fashioned from commonplace and often necessary things in our lives. Read 2 Chronicles 16:7-14. Asa looked to the world around him for the solutions to both his military and his medical problems. Asa's consultation of a physician was not wrong. Asa not seeking and trusting in the Lord's ultimate power to deliver formed the basis for Asa's sin. All areas of our life must be given over to faith in our Creator. (1 Peter 4:19)

Step 4 Afflicted Souls (10:15) Praise God that He is faithful to afflict our souls to the point of spiritual recognition even when our own hearts are weak. Consider 1 Samuel 12:1-14; Psalm 39: Psalm 32; and Psalm 51 concerning affliction.

Step 5 Divine Deliverance (7:2) God's deliverance can easily be passed off as circumstantial events. If Jesus was dependent upon His Father, why should it surprise us that we should need Him as well? See John 5:19 and also Psalm 33:13-22. Are you trusting in anything or anyone other than Christ? Your job? Your intelligence? Your bank account?

Step 6 Passionate Resolve (21:1-6) In the book of Judges, resolve never lasted one moment longer than the deliverer that God raised up. If we learn nothing else, we must keep our eyes off of men and upon Jesus Christ, as our example, our Lord, and our friend! Consider: Philemon 3:7-14; Hebrews 10:19-25; James 1:2-4.

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CYCLES OF SIN

The Hebrew word for Judge is sopet, which means one who dispenses justice. During the period during which the Judges ruled Israel, God raised up and empowered men and a woman to execute the office of judge. In most cases their task was two-fold: 1. to lead in battle, dispensing justice on the oppressing nations, and; 2. to rule in peace, dispensing justice in Israel as it related to both religious and civil law. It is interesting to notice that neither the first or the last battle recorded during this period was led by a judge. Judges were made necessary by the paralyzing effects of idolatry and moral decline. The challenge is to determine our own responsibility in either leading in battle or ruling in peace. The other choice is to allow every man to "do what is right in his own eyes"?

Consider these passages and try to get a firm understanding of each point before drawing any final conclusions. God alone is judge.

a. James 4:12 b. Isaiah 40:23 c. Revelation 19:11d. Psalm 50:6 e. John 8:50; 5:22 f. Romans 14:1-4g. 1 Corinthians 4:3-5

We are not called to wage war with the world (leading in battle) by dispensing justice, but through upholding God's grace in the world.

a. 1 Corinthians 5:12 b. Matthew 5:38-48 c. Romans 2:1-5d. Acts 7:60 e. Luke 23:34

By judging ourselves accurately. a. 1 Corinthians 2:15-16 b. 1 Corinthians 11:31-32 c. Matthew 7:1-5

By judging others appropriately (ruling in peace). a. Matthew 7:1-5 b. 1 Corinthians 5:1-13 c. 2 Corinthians 2:6 d. 1 John 1:6 e. Matthew 18:15-17 f. Luke 17:3

Even after considering these passages you may wonder how to reconcile God's clear com-mand to "not judge unless you are judged," with our commanded responsibility to rebuke our brother (Luke 17:3). The answer certainly must be that the Supreme Judge has set His standard, and it is every believer's responsibility to uphold (Philippians 3:12-16). This will include reproof, rebuke, and exhortation as God gives us wisdom and discernment (2 Timothy 4:2). We should never involve ourselves in passing judgment on a man's heart, but dealing openly and with confident authority of God's Word with regard to our actions. Some Final Thoughts: Jude 22 and 23; Galatians 6:1

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JUDGING ONE ANOTHER

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RUTH

Welcome to the book of Ruth! Note the passages listed within the overview chart above. Take this opportunity to refer to and note each one in your Bible. What have you learned so far about the book of Ruth? Ruth is a high point during Israel's low-life Judges time period. While every man was "do-ing what was right in his own eyes," Ruth was finding refuge under wings much stronger than her own. While Orpah flies back to the comfortable nest, Ruth strikes out with her mother-in-law to an unknown land. But for Ruth, the God of that land was by no means an "unknown God". Through great pain and difficulty Ruth finds reward for her faithfulness. Though a Gentile (a non-Jew) she is given her place in the family tree of Christ!

The Writer and Setting The author of the Ruth is unknown. It is probable that the account was written down by someone during David's reign and before that of Solomon. According to 1:1 the historical context of the book of Ruth is the days of the judges. Many feel that because of the famine mentioned in 1:1, the story must have taken place during the rule of Gideon, since during his service to Israel a famine is mentioned in the land (Judges 6:3-4). Once you have looked into the book of Ruth you may want to give the book of Judges a quick read. It will shed some light on the backdrop of this unique story.

Why this book? One of the themes woven into the entire Bible is that even though God chose the Jews to guard His Word and to provide the blood lineage of the "Messiah" or deliverer, His heart included bringing knowledge of His plan for eternal life to the rest of the world (the Gentiles). Ruth shows in a very real way what kind of heart can find its way to God. The "refuge" she found under God's wings was sweeping in her life and in the lives of her children's children for generations!

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Under whose wings you have come to take refuge! 2:12

Ruth and her: Resolve Unselfishness Appeal Reward 1:15-17 2:11-12 3:9-11 4:11,22

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RUTH Love Story

Understanding the incredible concept of "Buying Back Hearts"

Ruth might be sorry for going to a land that was not her own, to a people who might reject her for being a Gentile, and sorry for the hard manual labor she might have to perform in the fields in order to survive. But notice Ruth's commitment in 1:17, where she said nothing but death would separate her from Naomi. It is with equal devotion and love that Ruth commit's her life to Boaz as his wife, and bears him a son who was directly in the lineage of King David and of the Lord Jesus Christ. Her glimpse of the Living God had become a way of living for Ruth.

A key theme found in Ruth centers around the concept of redemption (2:20; 4:1, 4:6-14). The word "redemption" may be defined as "to purchase by paying a price." In modern times, this word has come to mean a cold business transaction that lacks a warm, personal element, like when you go to your local "Redemption" center and exchange your items for cash.

Biblical redemption, however, is the love story of a noble relative who did not count the costs of the potential profit and loss but joyously paid an unreasonable price for one that he loved. The book of Ruth declares that redemption is not a business transaction but a love affair. For the Christ-follower, our "family-redeemer" is Jesus Christ. Paul says that "in Him we have redemption, through His blood..." (Ephesians 1:7). Never in history has such an unbelievable price been paid for such an unworthy item.

Open your heart as you read! This book can open doors of understanding to the careful, thoughtful reader. When you feel like your life is insignificant and small, remember Ruth. When you feel like your life is futile and your choices, think of Ruth. And when you are facing life decisions that are weighty and even scary, think of Ruth. She is truly an example of a woman of faith with a true heart of courage!

In Focus In Joshua, we viewed a newly circumcised child, in Judges a sinning child. Though a whole nation appeared dark and faithless, Ruth, the Gentile Moabitess, shines bright in her faith! From Ruth we can learn principles about shining brightly despite very dark circumstances.

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A Bread of Life Bible Study Guide. Copyright 1990. Ruth Chapter Chart

KEY QUESTIONS: 1. Naomi means "pleasant." Mara means "bitter." Did Naomi have a right to be bitter? 2. Toward whom was her bitterness directed? 3. What is her attitude toward God (notice how she addresses Him)? 4. What does Naomi's situation and attitude reveal about the nation of Israel?

What about today? Accepting God's will does not ensure human happiness. Yet in the midst of adversity, our Lord God must be seen as the Almighty One...the Sovereign God of His children. Was Naomi embittered toward God or life's circumstances? Be careful not to confuse the two in your own life as you encounter "various trials!"

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KEY QUESTIONS: 1. Why did Elimelech move to Moab? 2. Elimelech's name means "my God is King." Did his actions coincide with his name? 3. Do some background study on Moab. Would God have been pleased with Elimelech's choice for a family living location? 4. How does Orpah's reaction compare to that of Ruth's? 5. What does this reveal about their differing views of the God of Israel? 6. What does Naomi's bitterness reveal about her relationship with God (1:20)? 7. As we observe Ruth's resolve (1:16 ,17), what do we learn of her faith and character? Her view of God? What about today? Ruth's resolve encompassed forsaking her family, lifestyle, and gods. Does your resolve reflect this kind of commitment? Is your lifestyle changing and growing? What "gods" continue to pull at you!?

Ruth's Resolve Read Chapter 1:1-18

Disgraceful Return Read Chapter 1:19-22

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KEY QUESTIONS: 1. Was Ruth's gleaning in Boaz's field premeditated? 2. What was the financial status of Boaz? 3. What kind of a man was Boaz? 4. In Boaz's initial response to Ruth, do you see an age difference (compare 3:10)? 5. What was the thing that most impressed Boaz? 6. What does verse 11 teach you about the Jewish people? What about today? When we look for refuge in God He provides His protection as well as for our basic needs. Ruth prospered because she sought refuge under the only wings that could protect her. This is the basis of her commitment to Naomi. It is easy in our culture to be obsessed with accumulation and only then to choose protection in God when our "pressing" needs are satisfied!

Ruth's Request Read Chapter 2:1-17

KEY QUESTIONS: 1. What did Naomi deduce about the situation? 2. What was Naomi's recommendation? 3. What do you think she was hoping for Ruth? For herself? What about today? Note the emphasis on resting in God's protection. How different is this attitude than the one of independence and autonomy that permeates our world? Do you share this same commitment to labor in God's field (life) and to trust God for the outcome?

A Favorable Report Read Chapter 2:18-23

KEY QUESTIONS: 1. Why was Naomi so interested in security for Ruth? 2. What did she mean by security? 3. How did Ruth view marriage? 4. What are the implications for our views on marriage? 5. What was Boaz's opinion of Ruth's action? 6. How did Boaz continue to protect Ruth? 7. What does verse 18 reveal about Boaz's character? What about today? What is your view of marriage? Marriage is to provide protection for both partners - which will please God. How does that differ from our culture's view of romance and marriage?

Ruth's Appeal Read Chapter 3:1-18

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KEY QUESTIONS: 1. What does this section teach us about the nature of God's chosen people? 2. What premium was placed upon family and inheritance? 3. What does the response of the people and elders who were in the court reveal about their national view of marriage? Their feelings about women? 4. What should be the motivation of God-centered Christian marriage? What about today? It is important to contrast the custom of God's chosen people with that of the present culture and age. The deep family inheritance emphasis has not been transferred to the current church, and we often place diminished value upon God's providence and redemption. This root of apathy and rebellion erodes our society's moral fiber, and results in a society that is ungrateful for many of the truly important things in life.

Ruth's Reward Read Chapter 4:1-12

KEY QUESTIONS: 1. How was Ruth's faithfulness specifically rewarded? Obed means "servant." 2. Compare this genealogy with those recorded in Matthew and Luke. What do you observe? What does this comparison teach you? What about today? Ruth's present reward was redemption through marriage. This is a picture of the future reward (revealed in the genealogy) of God's people and the Christ....the One who is able to buy back those who will inherit His Kingdom!

My thoughts about God's faithful providence of a place of refuge for me:

Ruth's Reward: Amazing Future Read Chapter 4:13-17

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"And Naomi said to her daughter-in-law, 'May he be blessed of the Lord...the man is our relative, he is one of our closest relatives.'" Ruth 2:20

"And she answered, 'I am Ruth your maid. So spread your covering over your maid, for you are a close relative.'" Ruth 3:9

A Family-Redeemer is... A "Blood" Relative... Boaz: Ruth 2:1, 2 Jesus Christ: Hebrews 2:14-18

Who "Buys back" another at His Own Cost... The Unwilling "Closest Relative": Ruth 4:6 Boaz: Ruth 4:9-10 Jesus Christ: Ephesians 1:7

Redemption comes with a price; the closest relative was unwilling to pay it "or I may jeopardize my own estate." Christ left the glory of heaven and "emptied Himself...and humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death" (Philippians 2:7-8) - in the place of those truly deserving death! (Consider Isaiah 53:3-8, especially verse 8).

Boaz was willing to pay the price and he was blessed by the people (Ruth 4:11) and by God (Ruth 4:4-13, 18-22) for doing so.

Because Jesus Christ willingly paid the price, "God lifted Him high, and placed upon him the name which is above every name..."

Consider a sharp contrast between the two - Boaz redeemed Ruth (described in Ruth 3:11b); Jesus Christ redeemed us (described in Psalm 14:2-3; Isaiah 53:6a; Romans 1-3; Ephesians 2:1-3)...do you see the comparative analogy?!

What about me? The following six definitions are the ones listed in the World Book Dictionary for the word "redeem." Each fact sheds tremendous light on God's choice to buy us back from spiritual death. How does this make you feel about what Christ did for you? Redeem

1. To buy back 2. To pay off3. To carry out; make good; fulfill 4. To set free; rescue; save5. To make up for; balance6. To reclaimPassages: Exodus 6:6 -- Definitions 4 and 6 Psalm 26:11 -- Definition 5 Isaiah 59:16-21 -- Definition 3 Revelation 5:9-10 -- Definitions 1 and 2

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