Ruth 4

But that you may know that the Son of Man (Jesus) has authority on earth to forgive sins - He said to the paralytic - I say to you, rise, pick up your bed, and go home. - Mark 2:10-11

-THIS SUNDAY'S TEXT- The Beauty of Authority and Redemption

There are so many wonderful blessings of the Lord that the world has tainted and made out to be negative. The world has tried to rob the distinct beauties of man and woman; the world has a poor view of the wonderful blessing of marriage; the world has mocked every idea of purity; and the world has made authority out to be negative.

As we continue in the book of Ruth, we will be exposed to the issue of authority and redemption. Read Ruth 3 & 4. Revisit Ruth’s request in Ruth 3:9. Ruth was requesting to come under the authority of the redeemer Boaz. In Ruth 4, Boaz is going to exercise his authority to redeem Ruth. This is a beautiful, wonderful move on Boaz’ part for the wonderful redemption of both Naomi and Ruth.

The authoritative move of Boaz to redeem is a huge arrow pointing us to Christ Jesus our Lord and Savior.

-CONSIDER & MEDITATE-

Think through the Gospel according to Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John:

· In what ways did Jesus exercise His authority? · What happened when Jesus exercise His authority? · What was the purpose of Jesus exercising His authority?

One example would be found in Mark 2:1-12. Jesus reveals His power and authority to heal and forgive sins. Mark 2:10-11 – But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins – He said to the paralytic – ‘I say to you, rise, pick up your bed, and go home.’

What is your attitude toward the authority of Jesus Christ? Do you accept His authority over your life with great joy, thanksgiving, and security or do you view His authority as oppressive, over bearing, and a burden?

PRAYER & THANKSGIVING Pray, asking the Lord to let your heart delight in the authority of Jesus Christ over your life – your heart, your mind, your life.