Join us this week as Mike discusses Ruth and Naomi’s story, and how it illustrates themes of rest, redemption, and joy. Ruth’s loyalty and kindness lead her to find a redeemer in Boaz, symbolizing security and fulfillment. The message discusses the connections between ruth and the Advent message, highlighting the importance of true joy and rest in a relationship with God. It encourages reflection on personal restlessness and the pursuit of lasting joy, ultimately pointing to Jesus as the ultimate redeemer. Watch or listen on our website, Youtube, or your favorite podcast app!
AI Generated Summary
This sermon explores the Advent theme of Joy by examining the story of Ruth and Boaz, in Ruth Chapter 3. The main claim of the message is that True joy is found in true rest. Pastor Mike defines this Biblical rest not as mere sleep, but as a deep, inner state of being perpetually established in a homeland where one is safe, provided for, and has a secure future. Naomi and Ruth, as vulnerable widows, are in a state of restlessness, which they seek to resolve by appealing to Boaz, their kinsman-redeemer, to marry Ruth and restore their family’s lineage and land rights. Ruth’s daring act of asking Boaz to spread his garment over her is presented as an act of vulnerability and faith in the redeemer’s loyal love and trustworthy character. Boaz agrees and sends her away with six measures of barley as a “down payment” of the assurance and rest that is to come. Pastor Mike concludes this message by stating that Jesus is the greater Boaz, our trustworthy Redeemer, who secures our eternal rest and joy at infinite cost to himself, and that our joy grows in the space between his promise of redemption and its eventual fulfillment.
Small Group Discussion Questions
The sermon claims that True joy is found in true rest. How do you personally define “rest” in a spiritual or covenantal sense, and how does this definition differ from just taking a nap or a vacation?
Pastor Mike describes Biblical rest as “being perpetually established in a homeland where you are safe and provided for and your future is secure”. In what areas of your life are you currently feeling restless, vulnerable, or uncertain about the future?
How does the concept of a Kinsman-Redeemer (Boaz)—who takes on the debt and risk of another family—help you understand the role of Jesus Christ as your Redeemer?
Pastor Mike references Augustine’s prayer: “our heart is restless until it rests in you”. What are some “short-term solutions” or “transient happiness” you have pursued that ultimately left you feeling restless?
Boaz’s gift of six measures of barley was a “down payment of what is to come” and a sign that “rest is coming”. How does the Holy Spirit act as a “down payment of our inheritance” in your life today, confirming your ultimate security in Christ?
Boaz was driven by his character, making an oath, “As surely as the Lord lives I will redeem you”. How does focusing on Christ’s trustworthy character—rather than your own efforts—bring assurance and rest to your heart?
The sermon suggests, “Don’t let your happiness steal your joy“. Can you share an example of a time when pursuing immediate pleasure or happiness distracted you from seeking long-term, lasting joy in God?
Ruth was called a “woman of noble character” because she prioritized kindness and loyalty to Naomi’s lineage over her own selfish interests, like marrying a young man for money or youth. How does seeking the good of others connect to finding your own “true joy,” as opposed to self-focused pursuits?
Ruth’s request to Boaz was to “Take me under your wing for you are a family redeemer”, an act of faith and vulnerability. What does it look like in your daily life to “lay ourselves at the feet of Jesus” and surrender your need for self-made security to him?
The sermon concludes that “Joy begins by bringing your need to Christ in honest vulnerability and boldness like Ruth”. What is one specific act of vulnerability or boldness you can take this week to draw nearer to Christ and accept his rest?