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How did the events that took place in Bethlehem related to Ruth, David, and Jesus compare to God’s provision for mankind?
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12 Replies
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Each part of history portrayed through the stories of Ruth, David, and Jesus show provision in different ways but all with the same underlying message: He is a God of provision whether it is for a homeless woman or a traveling mother about to give birth. Sometimes we can be in what we consider the worst situations, and God will provide in ways we can’t imagine.
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They speak of God’s provision and redemption in a time of dire distress. Ruth and Naomi were destitute widows who returned to Bethlehem, but God first provided food for them from the field of Boaz, and then he provided descendants for them from the loins of Boaz. Incidentally, Boaz was called a kinsman-redeemer. In the time of David, Saul was the king, but he did not act in faith and obedience to God to lead the Israelites out of oppression under their enemies, esp. the Philistines. God redeemed Israel by raising the king after God’s own heart – and he was David from Bethlehem. In the last story, angels appeared to shepherd to herald the birth of the infant Jesus in Bethlehem. We know we do not need to be afraid anymore because our Redeemer has come to us at Bethlehem. Incidentally, all the three stories link to the lineage and genealogy of Jesus Christ.
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In all three of these events, God provided a solution. For Ruth and Naomi’s family he provided a kinsmen Redeemer and husband for Ruth. In the next story, the nation of Israel needed a king that was wise and honest. God asked Samuel to choose from Jesse’s family and Samuel chose David, the youngest son, a shepherd boy to become a great King. When Jesus was born in Bethlehem God provided his one and only son Jesus to ultimately pay the price for the sins of all who believe.
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In Bethlehem, stories of hope seem to always shine through during tough times. Ruth found both physical food and emotional shelter there, leading to the rise of the caring King David, and later, Jesus, seen as the ultimate Saviour, was born, offering eternal life to believers. Each story, unique yet connected, reveals a thread of God transforming hardship into hope, demonstrating a constant, loving provision for people throughout time.
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God has always provided for mankind, just as He did for Ruth, David, and Jesus. He set forth the events that protected and provided for Ruth and David, and sent Jesus to save mankind. Bethlehem was the home of Ruth and David, and the birthplace of Jesus. The events that took place in Bethlehem set the stage for the Jesus’ life and work.