Four Characteristics of Christ Seen in Boaz

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The book of Ruth contains many beautiful truths for the believer. Below are a few perhaps overlooked insights that highlight how Boaz foreshadows Christ.

Read Ruth 2:5–18.

Care for Those in His Field

Verses 5–7: Boaz knows his fields well and pays attention to every detail, as any good landowner should. He understands both the Jewish Law and Jehovah’s command to leave a portion for the poor—and he is willing to obey. Boaz doesn’t stop at obligation; he goes further. He asks specifically about the individuals gleaning in his fields. He seems to view those gathering at the edges as divinely appointed guests, and he honors them accordingly.

Is this not the posture believers are also called to have? Hebrews 13:2 and Matthew 25:34–40 remind us that every person crossing our path is a potential opportunity to minister to the Lord Himself. Like Boaz, God sees and values every individual in His field. And since “The earth is the Lord’s, and all its fullness” (Psalm 24:1), His field includes the entire world.

Verses 8–9: Boaz not only acknowledges the poor, but he values Ruth personally. She has left behind her homeland, her culture, and her family to identify with the Jewish people—and more than that, she has chosen Boaz’s field. Boaz sees this as an honor: to represent Jehovah to someone like Ruth.

Proverbs 19:17 tells us:

“He who has pity on the poor lends to the Lord,

And He will pay back what he has given.”

This principle reflects the heart of Christ and is meant to be seen in us as well. We were all once spiritual outsiders. It is only by the compassion of Jesus that we enjoy any of God’s blessings. After the Fall, mankind was promised thorns, toil, and death—but by grace, God grants us gifts we do not deserve. How should we respond to such amazing grace?

Grace to the Unworthy

Verses 10–18: Boaz’s interaction with Ruth shows the natural response of someone who receives unexpected grace. Ruth is humbled (v.10), Boaz acknowledges her sacrifice (vv.11–13), and she honors his generosity (v.13). Boaz then lavishes her with blessings—first directly (v.14), then indirectly (vv.15–16). Ruth’s response is beautiful: she receives his kindness with humility and continues faithfully in her work (vv.17–18).

In the same way, believers enjoy intimacy with the Lord of all creation. This is a comforting reality as we are invited to:

“Come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”

(Hebrews 4:16)

And this relationship is only the beginning.

Read Ruth 3:7–12.

Dedication to Redemption

Verses 7–8: As Ruth observes Boaz over time, her appreciation deepens. She draws near and places herself at his feet—a picture of worship. A.P. Gibbs describes worship as:

“The overflow of a grateful heart."

Verses 11–13: Boaz sees Ruth’s love, sacrifice, and loyalty—and calls it “virtue.” He loves her, but he will not bypass the law. He honors the proper process, even if it means confronting the kinsman with a stronger legal claim.

In order for true and complete redemption, Christ, like Boaz, had to confront His adversary—the devil—who holds a claim on all those who commit evil. “Big” sins or “little” sins, it does not matter—every wrong deed must be accounted for. Humanity is thereby enslaved by sin and under the Enemy’s dominion. Christ was unflinching in His determination to redeem those whom He loves.

Verse 18: Naomi’s insight is striking: “The man will not rest until he has finished the thing this day.”

Similarly, 2 Peter 3:9 declares:

“The Lord is not slack concerning His promise… but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.”

God did not rest until the redemption of His people was complete.

Read Ruth 4:6–10.

Willingness to Pay the Price

Verses 6, 10: The nearer kinsman desired the land but refused the cost of redeeming Ruth and Naomi. His reluctance may have stemmed from financial concerns, or from fear of dividing his inheritance. Whatever the reason, he was unwilling to pay the price.

In contrast, Boaz was ready. Despite the cost, he was prepared to redeem and restore this family—because of "the love he had for her".

Likewise, though the Enemy claims ownership of us due to sin, he cannot keep what Christ has redeemed. Believers, like Ruth, leave behind the old life and follow after holiness. Christ paid the full price—and with His final words, “It is finished,” our redemption was secured.

Now, the Church stands as His beloved bride—redeemed, restored, and cherished.

Location: Puyo, Ecuador

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