Why the Story of Ruth Is in the Bible

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you.

1 Peter 1:3-4

Why is this story in the Bible? It shines a light on our Lord Jesus Christ and especially on what it means for Him to be our Redeemer.

Jesus is our Redeemer. To be our Redeemer, Jesus had to become our near relative. He entered the human family. And Jesus has done all that we could ever want or need a Redeemer to do. He has purchased our inheritance, and he has begun a family that will continue forever.

Jesus was willing to pay the price. If you ever find yourself questioning God’s love, just look at what Jesus has done for you. The cost was laying down His life. You were redeemed “with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot” (1 Pet. 1:18-19).

Jesus redeems us by uniting us with Himself. Boaz became Ruth’s redeemer by uniting himself to her in marriage. And Jesus redeems us by uniting us to Himself. That is why the Bible speaks of the church as the bride of Christ.

Jesus came into the world for this very purpose—to redeem us. He suffered and died on the cross to pay the price. And He longs that the gift He has purchased should be yours. The Redeemer is yours if you will have Him. But you must ask.

Have you asked Jesus to be your Redeemer? If not, would you make this your prayer today? Redeem me, Lord. Restore my inheritance. Make me a member of Your family forever. Take me under Your wing. Unite me with Yourself, so that all that is Yours becomes mine.