he kinsman refuses to redeem Ruth's inheritance. (1-8) Boaz
marries Ruth. (9-12) Birth of Obed. (13-22)
Verses 1-8: This matter depended on the laws given by Moses about
inheritances, and doubtless the whole was settled in the regular
and legal manner. This kinsman, when he heard the conditions of
the bargain, refused it. In like manner many are shy of the
great redemption; they are not willing to espouse religion; they
have heard well of it, and have nothing to say against it; they
will give it their good word, but they are willing to part with
it, and cannot be bound to it, for fear of marring their own
inheritance in this world. The right was resigned to Boaz. Fair
and open dealing in all matters of contract and trade, is what
all must make conscience of, who would approve themselves true
Israelites, without guile. Honesty will be found the best
policy.
Verses 9-12: Men are ready to seize opportunities for increasing their
estates, but few know the value of godliness. Such are the wise
men of this world, whom the Lord charges with folly. They attend
not to the concerns of their souls, but reject the salvation of
Christ, for fear of marring their inheritance. But God did Boaz
the honour to bring him into the line of the Messiah, while the
kinsman, who was afraid of lessening himself, and marring his
inheritance, has his name, family, and inheritance forgotten.
Verses 13-22: Ruth bore a son, through whom thousands and myriads were
born to God; and in being the lineal ancestor of Christ, she was
instrumental in the happiness of all that shall be saved by him;
even of us Gentiles, as well as those of Jewish descent. She was
a witness for God to the Gentile world, that he had not utterly
forsaken them, but that in due time they should become one with
his chosen people, and partake of his salvation. Prayer to God
attended the marriage, and praise to him attended the birth of
the child. What a pity it is that pious language should not be
more used among Christians, or that it should be let fall into
formality! Here is the descent of David from Ruth. And the
period came when Bethlehem-Judah displayed greater wonders than
those in the history of Ruth, when the outcast babe of another
forlorn female of the same race appeared, controlling the
counsels of the Roman master of the world, and drawing princes
and wise men from the east, with treasures of gold, and
frankincense, and myrrh to his feet. His name shall endure for
ever, and all nations shall call Him blessed. In that Seed shall
all the nations of the earth be blessed.
he kinsman refuses to redeem Ruth's inheritance. (1-8) Boaz
marries Ruth. (9-12) Birth of Obed. (13-22)