Bethlehem- The Site Of Ruth's Redemption Series

Series: Biblical Cities- Bethlehem [#2]

BETHLEHEM-

THE SITE OF RUTH’S REDEMPTION

Micah 5:2

Introduction:

We are in a series about some of the most mentioned Cities in the Bible. Since it is Christmas Season, we will start with Bethlehem. When we think about Bethlehem, we only think about the birthplace of Jesus. Bethlehem is mentioned 53 times in the Bible. There are actually 2 Bethlehem’s mentioned in the Bible- North Bethlehem in Galilee and South Bethlehem in Judea.

Micah 5:2

1. Ruth is redeemed in Bethlehem.

Ruth’s Mother-in-Law, Naomi, was from Bethlehem; and then moved to Moab. When Ruth’s husband and Father-in-Law died, they moved back to Bethlehem. There, Ruth met Boaz, and they fell in love. They couldn’t marry, because they weren’t the nearest of kin.

When the near-kinsman wouldn’t purchase her property, Boaz talked with him. Boaz was given permission to purchase Ruth, along with her property.

Ruth 4:10-11

Boaz redeemed his bride in Bethlehem. Jesus, born in a manger in Bethlehem, came to redeem His bride, the Church.

1 Peter 1:18-19

The Great-Grandson of Ruth and Boaz, King David; set up his kingdom over which his descendent Jesus will one day rule.

Conclusion:

As we learned last week, through Rachel, Bethlehem is associated with death. Tonight, we learn that Bethlehem is associated with redemption. This all happened 1100 years before Jesus was born.