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Ruth – Lesson 4: The Threshing Floor
Text: Ruth 3:1–18

Recap:
In our last two lessons, we’ve walked with Ruth from despair to hope.

  • Lesson 2: We saw Ruth’s desperation turn into divine direction as she “hap” upon the field of Boaz. What looked like chance was clearly God’s providence.

  • Lesson 3: Ruth didn’t just receive grain — she found grace in Boaz’s field. Her seeking for survival led her to a Savior-like figure. Even Naomi, once bitter and broken, was beginning to believe again.

The Threshing Floor (Ruth 3)

As we step into Chapter 3, we find Ruth at the threshing floor — a powerful symbol of transformation.

What is the Threshing Floor?
The threshing floor was a flat, hard surface used to separate grain from stalks through beating or trampling. It was a place of crushing, breaking, and separating — a place where value was revealed and waste removed.
It also paints a vivid picture of Christ — bruised for our iniquities, submitted to the Father's will, and faithful through the refining process.
Additionally, winnowing took place here — tossing the grain into the wind so that the chaff would blow away and the good grain fall. This speaks of separation, purification, and preparation.

In this place of sifting, Ruth meets Boaz. What a scene of redemption and surrender.

Outline:

1. Ruth’s Request (vv. 6–9)

Ruth comes in humility, vulnerability, and faith. Her request is bold: “Spread therefore thy skirt over thine handmaid.”
This wasn’t seduction — it was a symbolic act of requesting redemption, provision, and protection. Ruth is asking Boaz to act as her kinsman-redeemer.

2. Boaz’s Response (vv. 10–13)

Boaz doesn’t rebuke her; he blesses her. He praises her kindness and faithfulness, calls her virtuous, and promises to do all that she requests.
He is willing to redeem, but he must first make sure it’s done lawfully — there is another nearer kinsman. Boaz is not just willing; he is wise.

3. The Return to Naomi (vv. 14–18)

Ruth returns not empty-handed, but loaded with grain — a picture of hope.
Naomi sees not just the provision, but the providence. Her tone has shifted. “Sit still,” she says, “for the man will not be in rest.” Naomi believes again.

Reflection:
The threshing floor represents the moment where the past is broken off and the future begins. Ruth left behind her old life and took a step of faith toward a new life in Boaz.

SCH Note:
When Ruth came to Boaz, it wasn’t just about the grain. It was about grace. She was no longer just gleaning — she was seeking redemption.
And Boaz — like Christ — sees, speaks kindly, and secures the future. One act of kindness, one place of crushing, and one night of faith would change everything.