Sermons from December 2016
The Birth of a Redeemer (Ruth 4:13-22)
Introduction Ruth concludes with genealogy. Obed > King David. Bethlehem, House of Bread > Bread of Life, Jesus. Primary focus = Naomi. Death and emptiness > Life and fullness. Read Ruth 4:13-22 Why does history drag out so long? Why doesn’t Jesus return right now? Why does everyone wait? Old Testament saints waited for Messiah. Every redeemer potentially the one. None fit. Then Christ came, in infant form. He accomplished reconciliation, yet still awaiting consummation. We wait for his return. What…
The Cost of a Wedding (Ruth 4:1-12)
Introduction Machiavelli, The Prince, “There is nothing so self-defeating as generosity: in the act of practicing it, you lose the ability to do so.” Boaz has proven to be generous. He operated on different principles than everyone else. Isn’t that the gospel? In the act of losing his life, Jesus saved us. It was self-defeating, then Jesus conquered death as well. In Ruth 3, redemption promised, but who fulfill? Read Ruth 4:1-12 Difficult elements in Ruth: The levirate-marriage (Deut. 25) Land and redemption…
Bless the Lord (Psalm 134)
Introduction “The Songs of Ascent” span from Psalms 120-134. The phrase literally translates “A Song of Steps”. Luther translates ”A Song from the higher choir” thinking it had to do with their singing from an elevated platform for better projection of their voices. However, the traditional view is that these psalms were sung on the pilgrimage back to Jerusalem at various feast times, but particularly during Passover (From Kedar 120:5 to the temple 134). This psalm includes both a call…
Finding Rest in the Redeemer (Ruth 3:16-18)
Introduction Ch.3 is difficult. Is Naomi’s promoting reckless immorality (v.4)? Actually, Naomi seeking security for Ruth (v.1). Ruth couldn’t glean forever. Naomi wouldn’t be around forever. Ruth would find rest in a husband, a goal she had in Moab (1:9). Read Ruth 3:16-18 “Rest” bookends the chapter (vv.1 & 18). Different words in Hebrew, but similar meaning (Ruth’s rest/Boaz’s peace). Who understands rest? Teens at chore time? Once again, God’s grace and mercy revealed through the words and actions of…
A Joyful Proposal (Ruth 3:1-15)
Introduction Boaz provided, but no longterm security. The harvest ended (2:23). Once no food, who will help? Read Ruth 3:1-15 6mos food, but future uncertain. Abundance of temporary blessings no guarantee future security. A 1978 study: “What happens to a person’s emotional life after winning the lottery?” Lottery winners/accident victims asked to rate pleasure from everyday activities (friends, TV, breakfast, laughing). Accident victims were happier! Barley NOT $1M + Ruth obtained responsibly. But no rest…not yet! Boaz promised Ruth (3:13), but she’d…