How does Ruth 2:5 connect to Leviticus 19:34 about loving the foreigner? A Glimpse into the Field (Ruth 2:5) “Then Boaz asked the foreman of his harvesters, ‘Whose young woman is this?’ ” God’s Standing Order (Leviticus 19:34) “The foreigner who dwells with you shall be to you as the native among you; you shall love him as yourself, for you were foreigners in the land of Egypt; I am the LORD your God.” Boaz Putting Leviticus into Practice - Leviticus commands active love for foreigners. - Boaz immediately notices Ruth—a Moabite—and seeks information so he can respond rightly. - His inquiry opens the door for: • Permission to glean (Ruth 2:8) • Protection from harm (Ruth 2:9) • Provision of food and water (Ruth 2:9, 14) • Public honor and blessing (Ruth 2:11–12) - Every step fulfills “love him as yourself.” Boaz’s obedience is tangible, not theoretical. Gleaning Laws as a Bridge - Leviticus 19:9-10 commands leaving field edges for the poor and the foreigner. - Ruth 2 is a narrative illustration of that law in motion: Boaz lets Ruth, the foreigner, glean freely. - Obedience brings blessing to both giver and receiver (cf. Deuteronomy 24:19). Broader Biblical Echoes - Deuteronomy 10:18-19—God “loves the foreigner”; Israel must do likewise. - Exodus 22:21—“You must not mistreat or oppress a foreign resident.” - Matthew 25:35—Jesus commends welcoming the stranger. - Ephesians 2:19—Gentiles are now “fellow citizens with the saints” through Christ. Key Takeaways for Today • Notice the outsider; love starts with awareness. • Act—provide safety, sustenance, and dignity. • Ground your generosity in God’s character: He loved us when we were outsiders (Romans 5:8). • Expect God to weave such obedience into His redemptive plan, just as He used Boaz’s kindness to bring forth the lineage of David—and ultimately Christ (Ruth 4:17; Matthew 1:5-6). |
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