A Suggested Outline of the Book of Ruth
Theme: God providentially guides and blesses all who trust Him
Theme verse: Ruth 2:12
1. Sorrow: Ruth Weeping—chap. 1
a. Naomi tries to run from her problems—1:1–5
b. Naomi tries to cover up her mistakes—1:6–18
c. Naomi gets bitter against God—1:19–22
2. Service: Ruth Working—chap. 2
a. A new beginning—faith—2:1–3
b. A new friend—love—2:4–16
c. A new attitude—hope—2:17–23
3. Submission: Ruth Waiting—chap. 3
a. Ruth presents herself to Boaz—3:1–7
b. Ruth is accepted by Boaz—3:8–15
c. Ruth waits for Boaz to act—3:16–18
4. Satisfaction: Ruth Wedding—chap. 4
a. Boaz redeems Ruth—4:1–10
b. The people bless Ruth—4:11–12
c. God gives Boaz and Ruth a son—4:13–22
Ruth 1 -- You Can’t Run Away
1. Unbelief: trying to run from our problems (Ruth 1:1–5)
2. Deception: trying to hide our mistakes (Ruth 1:6–18)
3. Bitterness: blaming God for our trials (Ruth 1:19–22)