Christ, Our Kinsman-Redeemer

“Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour, Jesus Christ; Who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity…” (Titus 2:13-14a).

The most recognized story of a “kinsman-redeemer” appears in the book of Ruth. Some might wonder why God isn’t directly referred to in this four chapter story, but His presence was definitely there. As I did an in-depth study of the book of Ruth, my first thought was how can I condense all I had gleaned? I challenge you to do a personal study on Ruth so you can gather, like barley, every detail that led to Boaz becoming her “kinsman-redeemer.”

Naomi and her husband and sons left their homeland because of famine. They moved to Moab where the sons married Moabite women after the death of Naomi’s husband. Ruth and Orpah were their names. Sadly after several years both of Naomi’s sons died. Naomi wanted both of her daughters-in-law to move on with their lives. Ruth insisted on traveling back to Bethlehem with Naomi. Alas, someone else had Naomi’s land so Ruth went to work in the fields or both women would have starved to death. It was no accident Ruth went to work in the fields of a man named Boaz. It was also not a coincidence that Boaz was kin to Naomi’s late husband. Boaz was already a “kinsman.” As we go further into the book of Ruth, we later see the how and why Boaz “redeemed” or bought back the land that originally belong to Naomi’s husband. Ruth was “redeemed” as well and she and Boaz married. Because they followed the Biblical customs (see Leviticus 25) for this redemption, we see Ruth listed in the lineage of David which included Jesus Christ. I will share a little more about that in tomorrow’s devotion.

One of the many names attributed to Jesus is “Redeemer.” As sinners we needed someone, not to do a land deal but to buy us out of the bondage of sin. In the Old Testament, the “kinsman-redeemer” wasn’t obligated to fulfill any responsibilities set before him regarding land or slavery. Boaz didn’t do what he did for Ruth out of obligation. He loved her. Christ didn’t go to the Cross to “redeem” us because He felt obligated. He loved us even deeper than the love Boaz had for Ruth! Through the blood of Christ we can be bought back into His family. Thus He becomes our “kinsman-redeemer.” We look forward, with hope, for a “family” reunion someday soon.

Sue Winchester
Missouri

PRAY TOGETHER: Pray for safety as missionaries travel many miles each year.