Ruth 1:1-5: An Exegetical and Expositional Proposal -- By: Timothy L. Decker

Journal: Conspectus
Volume: CONSPECTUS 09:1 (Mar 2010)
Article: Ruth 1:1-5: An Exegetical and Expositional Proposal
Author: Timothy L. Decker


Ruth 1:1-5: An Exegetical and Expositional Proposal

Timothy L. Decker1

Abstract

The book of Ruth makes for many excellent expositional, narrative sermons. The theology is rich, the story is compelling, the themes are significant, and the cultural mores are fascinating. Therefore, much is gained from an intense study through Ruth. This journal article sets out to demonstrate exactly how rich and detailed this story is, as exemplified from the opening pericope of Ruth 1:1-5. Part of the exegetical task is to uncover many great morphological puns and ironic elements which are so eloquently placed within. There is also an inherent tension growing throughout the Old Testament between the dynasties of Saul and David that is partly played out in the setting of Ruth. This tension helps to express one of the primary purposes for the book of Ruth—a political advertisement for the house of David. This article will also demonstrate the necessary bridge that preachers must cross from exegesis to exposition through a suggested homiletical outline from the opening pericope.

1. Introduction

It can be difficult for expositors to bring applicable data out of foundational material such as the setting of a narrative. Ruth 1:1-5 is an example where the setting may be glossed over but not preached as its own pericope. This is rather unfortunate in such a highly theological narrative as Ruth. Its Messianic/Davidic significance as well as its soteriological undertones create an outstanding resource for sermons. And the love story alone makes for some good practical marital sermons. Yet this author believes that there is more going on in Ruth 1:1-5

than is indicated through the neglect of its use in many pulpits. This paper intends to employ a thorough exegesis of Ruth 1:1-5, highlight central themes found within the introductory paragraph, and propose a homiletical outline for an expositional sermon of this text.

2. Exegesis Of Ruth 1:1-5

Verse 1: And it happened in the days when the ones judging judged, there was a famine in the land; and a man went from Bethlehem of Judah to sojourn in the fields of Moab—he and his wife and his two sons.

This story starts with a typical narrative introductory word וַיְהִי (vayehiy, ‘and it was’).

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