The Book of Ruth is a tale of charm and delight, providing a contrast to the concurrent anarchy depicted in the book of Judges. Telling the simple story of a family who are struck by tragedy, but experience love and acceptance in unexpected ways, in Ruth's narrative we are clearly shown God's guiding hand as everything endured leads to the births of both King David and, finally, Jesus Christ.

David Atkinson illuminates The Message of Ruth in this encouraging and thoughtful commentary, showing us how theologically the story of Ruth is a story about God's providence. From Naomi and Ruth herself to Boaz, he guides us through the narrative and explores how each character fits into God's purposes for history and what that means for us living as Christians today.

A revised edition in the much-loved Bible Speaks Today series of commentaries, The Message of Ruth offers a thorough, readable exposition of both the Biblical text and what it can teach modern Christians. Used by Bible students and teachers around the world, the Bible Speaks Today commentaries are ideal for students and preachers who are looking to broaden their knowledge and understanding of Scripture and its continued relevance in the twenty-first century.

This beautifully redesigned edition has been sensitively updated to include modern references and use the NIV Bible text.

The Message of Ruth will be helpful for anyone looking for accessible commentaries on Ruth that explore it more deeply, considering its meaning both for its original audience and for Christians reading it today.

David Atkinson is Honorary Assistant Bishop in the Diocese of Southwark, and formerly Suffragan Bishop of Thetford in the Diocese of Norwich. As well as The Message of Ruth he has written Bible Speaks Today commentaries on Genesis 1?11, Job and Proverbs.

Contents
General preface ix
Author's preface xi
Chief abbreviations xii
Introduction 1
Part 1: The tears
1. Going away (1:1-7) 23
2. Coming home (1:8-22) 34
Part 2: The wings of refuge
3. Grace and gratitude (2:1-13) 49
4. A place in the family (2:14-23) 70
Part 3: The kinsman-redeemer
5. The levir and the goel 81
6. Faith active in love (3:1-18) 95
Part 4: The redemption and the joy
7. Love beyond law (4:1-12) 109
8. We have a history (4:13-22) 120
'The Lord be with you' 127