Sharing in the Harvest (Ruth 2:17-23)
In chapter one of the book of Ruth we saw how dark circumstances led Naomi into bitterness. There was a famine in Israel so Naomi followed her husband Elimelech, taking along their two sons, to Moab. Shortly after arriving there Elimelech died. Naomi’s sons married Moabite wives, which was another act of disobedience. And within ten years, both her sons are dead. Naomi described her circumstances at the end of chapter 1 in verses 20-21, “Do not call me Naomi…
The Harvest Begins (Ruth 2:1-16)
Open your bibles to Ruth 2:1-16. Last week, looking at chapter one, we dealt with the primary problem of Naomi’s bitterness and emptiness. Despite the incredible display of faith and the unwavering commitment of her daughter-in-law Ruth, Naomi remained pessimistic regarding her chances of surviving in Bethlehem. She no longer wants to be called Naomi, but Mara, because the Lord had dealt very bitterly with her (1:20). Have you tried to relate? Are you able to put yourselves in their…
A Song for the Sabbath (Psalm 92)
Introduction Our series, “Evenings in the Psalms,” was meant to point out the pattern of worship in Scripture which speak to the importance of opening and closing our day in worship. • In Psalm 1 we noted how Christians are to be characterized in a way that is distinct from the world. They should be characterized by a refusal to compromise with the world. A love for God’s Word so that they meditate upon it day and night. • In…
Love That Will Not Let Go (Ruth 1:7-22)
Introduction We are continuing a look at this opening chapter and its theme of death and emptiness in Naomi’s life. Last week we saw that her family’s move to Moab left her without her two sons and her husband (5). But God has brought and end to the famine (6). Read Ruth 1:7-22 When we suffer and go through seasons of difficult circumstances, we often run. We attempt to flee our problems, and sometimes that includes fleeing the Church. We run from the one thing that…
A Bitter Journey (Ruth 1:1-6)
Introduction We noted last week that chapter one presents the problem of death and emptiness in Naomi’s life. The solution begins to develop in chapter two, but the reader must wait until the very end of the story before seeing the full realization. Read Ruth 1:1-6 The famine that occurs in Bethlehem begins the story and explains why Elimelech is moving his family to Moab (1:1). The Lord’s provision of food ends the episode and begins the return journey of Naomi, now widowed and…
Introduction to Ruth
When Graeme Goldsworthy was asked to preach on Ruth 1 he quickly recognized that he would need to consider the book as a whole in order to grasp the “real significance” of the first chapter. The purpose of the book of Ruth is seen more clearly when the structure is understood. Therefore, it is important to begin our study of chapter one with an overview of the whole book paying careful attention to the way in which the author organized…
Faithful Proclamation (Acts 28:17-31)
Introduction Paul survived a shipwreck and snake attack before safely arriving in Rome. He has now been left under the watch of a single guard and allowed the privilege of visitors. Read Acts 28:17-31 We have seen several themes as we have made our way through this book (The Holy Spirit, Apostolic Miracles, Hospitality, Suffering, etc.). But the book ends on the most prominent theme. It was the same theme we began with, namely Spirit-Empowered Evangelism – witnessing for Christ (1:8). Almost…
Safe and Bound (Acts 28:1-16)
Introduction Everyone’s safely on shore. Paul is still a prisoner. Safe, but God accomplishing his will in unexpected ways. That theme continues… Read Acts 28:1-16 God is orchestrating everything, faithfully keeping his promise to bring Paul to Rome. But considering all that Paul has suffered, will question the Lord’s kindness? In spite of Paul’s consistent character, you have to wonder when he breaks. PTSD after 4th shipwreck? Paul desperately needed to know the kindness of God. And wouldn’t you know it…shortly…
I Will Remember (Psalm 77)
Introduction Despair is a pervasive problem. And it is commonly associated with the night. Maybe you are one of the millions in despair about one or both of the presidential candidates. Or maybe it is something more personal and private. Or maybe you can’t pinpoint a cause. Regardless of what is causing your despair, Psalm 77 is sure to be a source of great comfort. Read Psalm 77 The psalmist never receives an explanation for his circumstances. He teaches us how to…
Rome or Bust (Acts 27)
Introduction Paul’s 3MJ ended abruptly with his unlawful arrest. Now, more than two years later, he is still in custody awaiting a hearing before Nero in Rome. That hearing as apparently been granted. Read Acts 27 The length of this account points to its significance for Luke. God doesn’t fulfill his promise to Paul in predictable fashion. We can better understand an episode like this when it happens to someone like Jonah. In his case, the storm was a means…