Ruth 4:18-22: The Family Tree Takes Root

In these final verses of the book of Ruth, we’re given something unexpected – a family tree! This isn’t just any genealogy, though. It traces the lineage of a very special baby boy named Obed, all the way back to an important figure named Perez.

Why is this important?

• God’s Promises Kept: Remember way back when God promised Abraham that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars? This genealogy is proof that God was keeping His word. Even through hardships and unexpected twists (like Ruth’s story), God’s plans were unfolding.
• Hope for the Future: This family tree isn’t just about the past. It points towards a hopeful future. Obed isn’t just any baby; he’s the grandfather of King David, one of the greatest kings in Israel’s history. And from David’s line would come an even greater King… (But that’s a story for another time!)
• God Uses Ordinary People: Notice how this family tree includes all sorts of people – foreigners like Ruth, unexpected heroes like Boaz, and even some folks with complicated histories. This shows us that God can use anyone, no matter their background, to accomplish amazing things.

Study Questions for Young People

1. Imagine yourself as Obed: If you were baby Obed, what might you be feeling or thinking as you grew up knowing about your unique family history?
2. Modern Family Trees: Do you know your own family tree? Why do you think it’s important to know where we come from?
3. God’s Promises: Can you think of other stories in the Bible where God keeps His promises, even when things seem impossible?
4. Ordinary People, Extraordinary God: Who are some “ordinary” people in your life who God might be using in amazing ways?
5. Looking Ahead: The Bible tells us that Jesus is a descendant of King David. How does this genealogy in Ruth connect to the bigger story of God’s plan for the world?

Let me know if you’d like more commentary or study questions!