Amid all the Christmas activities and food preparation, today I bring you soul food. It is my prayer that during this season you take the time to feed your soul as well as your body.
I was just finishing up a study of the Book of Ruth through Community Bible Study when Cross Focused Media offered Dr. John Currid’s commentary RUTH: From Bitter to Sweet for review.
I am a “happily-ever-after” girl and the book of Ruth has long been my Cinderella story of the Bible. Having just finished an in-depth study on the book of Ruth, I was curious to read a second commentary. I am so glad I did. I am not a Bible scholar, preacher, or teacher and I was concerned I wouldn’t understand a theologian’s commentary. I was pleasantly surprised to find this commentary written in a conversational way I could easily follow.
Ruth: From Bitter to Sweet is part of the Welwyn Bible Study Commentary Series and is designed as a tool for preaching, lesson preparation, and personal or group Bible study. The author, Dr. John D. Currid, is the Carl McMurray Professor of Old Testament at the Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, Mississippi.
Dr. Currid is a gifted story-teller weaving many historical illustrations into the study. At the end of each chapter he uses “Points to Ponder” to give further illustration and meaning to the storyline. John Calvin, Matthew Henry, John Flavel, Thomas Watson, John Bunyan are just some of the distinguished men and women of faith quoted in this book as well as The Westminster Confession of Faith.
Through increased study and Dr. Currid’s commentary I am continually drawn to the realization of how Boaz reminds me of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who did not hesitate to redeem us. Just as Boaz willingness to take Ruth as his bride mirrors our relationship with Jesus. Jesus calls all those who have responded to His love, His Bride. Like Ruth, we are also rewarded for seeking and following the One who loves us with an everlasting love. Dr. Currid’s commentary once again reminds me Boaz’s words to Ruth apply to all of us, “The Lord repay you for what you have done, and a full reward be given you by the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge.” (Ruth 2:12)
Preachers and teachers will find this commentary helpful in lending substance to their own study and teaching. I believe this commentary would be an excellent choice for a small group study.
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Catherine,
Thanks for being a part of the Ruth: From Bitter to Sweet blog tour. I’m glad you enjoyed the book.
Shaun Tabatt
Cross Focused Reviews
What a sweet reminder of our Lords love for us, I am guilty of forgetting the sweet story Ruth and her dedication. Thank you for the reminder!
Whether it is Naomi, Ruth or Boaz, they each have something different to teach us but all reminding us of God’s incredible love for us!