Ruth 4:1-12 – Have You No Name?!?

A redeemer closer than Boaz has the chance to show hesed to Ruth and Naomi, but instead chooses his own wealth and convenience to his shame. Our text in this study is: Ruth 4:1-12 Series: The Gleaning Lady Gene Pensiero Jr Find the rest of the series at https://calvaryhanford.com/thegleaninglady Subscribe on YouTube at: https://youtube.com/calvaryhanford Read the notes at: https://calvaryhanford.substack.com Have You No Name? The Kinsman Redeemer’s Duty (Ruth 4:1-12 Bible Study) Welcome to our verse-by-verse study through the Old Testament book of Ruth! This message explores the dramatic climax of the book in Ruth 4:1-12, where the fate of Ruth and Naomi is decided at the city gate of Bethlehem. This passage is a powerful demonstration of God’s providence and provides a vivid picture of Jesus Christ as our ultimate Kinsman Redeemer. We are introduced to a mysterious figure, the closest relative with the right to redeem Elimelech’s land and raise up an heir for the deceased. Yet, the author refuses to name him, referring to him in Hebrew as Peloni Almoni—”Mr. So-And-So.” We examine why this man is permanently left as a “Hebrew John Doe” and how his refusal to act contrasts sharply with the hesed love and sacrificial duty of Boaz. The Redemption at the Gate: Key Insights Providence, Not Coincidence: Boaz’s timely encounter with the anonymous redeemer at the city gate of Bethlehem underscores the truth that God actively engages in our lives to accomplish His will. This legal meeting, before ten elders, was a pivotal moment leading directly to the lineage of King David and ultimately, Christ Himself. The Contrast of Hearts: We contrast Peloni Almoni, who only thinks of his own portfolio and fears financial ruin, with Boaz, who shows extraordinary faith and sacrificial love. The first redeemer’s refusal to pay the cost reveals an un-hesed heart, unwilling to sacrifice his inheritance to bring life and future to those in need. The Cost of Redemption: Boaz steps in to buy back Elimelech’s forfeited property and, crucially, to acquire Ruth the Moabitess as his wife to “perpetuate the deceased man’s name.” This act perfectly foreshadows our Redeemer, Jesus Christ, who “though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor.” As 1 Peter 1:18-19 reminds us, we are redeemed not with silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ. Transformation and Inheritance: By paying the full price, Boaz completes the transaction, bringing Ruth into the family and raising up the name of the dead. This mirrors what Christ does for us: He brings life where there was death and gives us a share in His inheritance. The forfeited world will one day be restored by the grace of God. Applying Our Faith: The video concludes with two points of application for living out our Christianity: Surrender to Jesus, the mighty Redeemer, as Naomi surrendered her right to the field; and Serve others sacrificially, choosing to be a person of hesed like Boaz, used by God in the ongoing story of redemption. This Calvary Chapel Bible study is a rich resource for those seeking to study the Bible and understand the depths of spiritual truth found in the Old Testament. Join us to learn about the Kinsman Redeemer, the power of faith, and the importance of sacrificial service. Keywords: Ruth 4, Ruth 4:1-12, Book of Ruth, Kinsman Redeemer, Boaz, Naomi, Ruth the Moabitess, Bible Study, Old Testament, Redemption, Peloni Almoni, Mr. So-And-So, City Gate, Bethlehem, Elimelech, Inheritance, Law of Moses, Levirite Marriage, Hesed, Jesus Christ, Redeemer, Providence, Faith, Surrender, Service, New Testament, King David, Calvary Chapel, Christianity, Study the Bible, Spiritual Growth, Israel, Evangelical, Bible Teaching, Lord.