In this eight-week accessible study, Jared Wilson provides a clearer picture of Jesus through the story of Ruth, which he presents as a historic living parable of Christ's love for his church.
Ruth: Redemption for the Broken can be adapted for one-to-one discipleship, small group, or large group settings. The comprehensive leader's guide is included in the text, making it an easy-to-follow structure to engage men and women.
By studying the book of Ruth, readers can enjoy the romance and drama of this compelling story while understanding how it applies to their own lives finding Christ's undying love for them through this unforgettable biblical narrative.
Jesus is the "truer and better" of every character in the book of Ruth, and everything in the Bible points to him. Wilson anchors his message in Scripture, guiding readers to better understand the themes in the book of Ruth.
When everything falls apart, cling to Jesus, the one who clings to you. Find in the story of Ruth the start of a real love story but probably not the one you think. Ruth reveals the truth that there are no sinners, no failures, and no victims so far gone that the sovereign hand of the Lord cannot reach, rescue, and even revise the story of their lives.
"What a great resource for leading a small group through this short but significant book of the Bible—a beautiful blend of focus on the text, clear but brief teaching, insightful interactive discussion questions, and gospel-centered personal application."
Nancy Guthrie, Author of the Seeing Jesus in the Old Testament Bible Study series
"The biblical story of Ruth offers us hope in the darkest of times. Jared Wilson expertly helps us understand and apply this story. Most importantly, he shows how Ruth points us to the ultimate story of hope for dark times: the story of Jesus Christ. I read everything that Jared writes, and this is no exception. I can't wait to use this study in my ministry."
Darryl Dash, Pastor, Liberty Grace Church, Toronto; author of How to Grow: Applying the Gospel to ALL of Your Life
"Jared Wilson's Ruth: Redemption for the Broken isn't the clinical or sentimental kind of small group Bible study that exists today. Each session takes the Bible seriously, warms the heart to the person and work of Jesus Christ, and sets a course for living in the gospel. I can hardly wait to walk through this powerful and engaging study with my church and small groups!"
Jeremy Writebol, Lead Campus Pastor, Woodside Bible Church, Plymouth, MI; executive director, Gospel-Centered Discipleship
"Ruth: Redemption for the Broken, like the biblical book it represents, is a lot of hope in a little package. Many will be surprised to discover just how much they see Jesus in the book of Ruth. The leader's notes are insightful and helpful. The biblical teaching is weighty and accessible. And best of all, the Jesus in these pages is big and glorious!"
T.J. Tims, Lead Pastor, Immanuel Nashville
"Ruth: Redemption for the Broken is a fantastic study for normal Christians who need more Jesus. Jared gives a guidebook for seeing Christ in this Old Testament narrative in a way that inspires faith and leads to action. This study provides a fail-safe framework for gospel conversations in the local church."
Emily Jensen, Cofounder of the Risen Motherhood ministry; coauthor of Risen Motherhood: Gospel Hope for Everyday Moments
"Nothing is more vital to our intimacy with Christ than spending time with him in his Word. But a lot of Bible studies stop short and only deal with concepts and ideas and never really speak to our hearts. That's why I'm so excited about this series. Each author writes about the unique gospel insights he or she has gained from Scripture and has created a small group study that will help people actually encounter Christ and be changed by the power of his grace. God has used this material powerfully in my life, marriage, and ministry, and that is my prayer for you as well."
Bob Osborne, Executive Director, Serge
Ruth: Redemption for the Broken is a study guide with leader’s notes, and it is from The Gospel-Centered Life in the Bible series. The goal of this study guide is more “than to merely study the book of Ruth. You will also be learning to keep your eyes on Jesus, the ultimate Redeemer behind the redeemer in the story. And you will consider how the fullness of his love for you takes you beyond yourself, to love others – including those who are poor or are outsiders like Ruth.” The book contains eight lessons, and each lesson starts with a big idea and a Bible conversation. The Bible conversation section is a suggested scripture reading and some discussion questions about the scripture being read that day. Then, there is an article written by the author to extend your thinking about the passage that was read. There is also a discussion section to encourage interaction in a small group, and the lesson ends with wrap-up and prayer. I would recommend this study guide for use in a small group, for those who want to dig deeper into their Bibles. I received a copy of this book from the publisher, New Growth Press, in return for an honest review.
I’m using this book for our church’s women’s bible study. I chose this because the ladies wanted something that would not require too much preparation and can be done in the group sharing practical applications in real life. All of the women are really enjoying it and say they look forward to our group time each week. Simple to use, informative and most of all points us to Jesus.
Jared Wilson is a gifted writer and this book is a beautiful addition to a fantastic series of gospel centered books. Meant for group study, I found this book to be very enriching, even for personal study! Jared begins with the sacrificial love of Naomi in the face of troubles (Ruth 1). In a foreign land (Moab), Naomi loses her husband and her two children, but not her faith! She attributes all her troubles to God's sovereign hand (yes, God is in control even when situations don’t seem under control). Jared writes, "Naomi gave her daughters-in-law a choice: stay in Moab and have husbands, children and respect, or come to Bethlehem and have nothing except God." Ruth, clings to her and doesn't let her go. Ruth will go where Naomi will go, thus committing to Naomi's faith and her people. Jared suggests that such a commitment by Ruth looks forward to the commitment that Christ makes to us, for better or for worse! We are then introduced to a Godly man Boaz who finds Ruth gleaning at his field (Ruth 2). Both Ruth and Boaz display exceptional faith and Godly behavior! Boaz is a worthy man – “the total package” as Jared calls him. Ruth is a humble woman – “a sterling example to us all of how to stay low before God”. Despite all her diligence in gleaning, Ruth stands in awe that a man like Boaz would even notice her. Boaz is concerned about the well-being and protection of Ruth, while Ruth is concerned about the dignity and favor of Boaz. Both their hearts are set on doing good to the other (How beautiful!). Jared writes insightfully pointing to the Christian life, “Ruth is a model in receiving grace while Boaz is a model in giving grace. Once we become believers, both receiving and giving grace are habits of an ongoing Christian life”. From the conclusion of Ruth 2, Jared brings out four portraits of grace in the gospel. He shows us that God’s grace is radically inclusive, radically extravagant, radically glorious and radically transforming. We serve a radically gracious God! Ruth 3 is a classic example of boldly walking in faith! Ruth acts in faith not just to find her a protector, but also to bring glory to God’s name. Boaz acts in faith in redeeming Ruth, knowing that there is a God in heaven who lives. Both their actions seem daring, but they flow out of a deep confidence in the redemptive purposes of God! Jared rightly points out that Boaz is a type of Christ in more ways than one. Ruth 4 becomes a fitting climax to a Godly love story. As the first-in line redeemer backs off, Boaz steps up and takes Ruth under his wing! The future Messiah will come through their line! Our God is really a God of great reversals - a God of extravagant grace! Jared concludes by showing us the difference between law (the first kinsman) and grace (the second kinsman): “the law only goes so far, while grace redeems fully.” Indeed!
