Whether they are thrilled by the love story of Ruth and Boaz or encouraged by a happy ending for Naomi, many people are drawn to the book of Ruth. But though the story is indeed charming, Ruth is included in Scripture for more than our entertainment. Ruth's message is theological, rooted in God's oversight of the movement of redemptive history that climaxes in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
"This lively book with rich gospel content is written in a lucid style that communicates to pastors and laity alike. It explains how the story of Ruth is part and parcel of the redemptive history that extends from Genesis to Revelation: the good news that God has provided our Kinsman-Redeemer, Jesus Christ, who grants us the forgiveness of sins and the inheritance of resurrection to everlasting life. God worked through ordinary Old Testament believers in distressing situations to bring about redemption for a Moabite who became an ancestress of Christ. Our times of suffering too are opportunities for God to strengthen our faith and work through us to bring salvation to others."—Christopher W. Mitchell, Concordia Commentary editor