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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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God provided the each of these people to meet their specific need. Ruth needed care: Boaz met that need. David needed to be in the blood line of Christ, and Samuel was used by God to anoint Him King. Christ came to expand that blood line so that each person alive would have an option for salvation. All three elements were necessary to trace God’s love and salvation from the Creation.
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In God’s Word we find that the references to the city of Bethlehem also include great HOPE. Each mention includes God’s expression of salvation for His people – far more than simple liturgical effect. There is the physical salvation for Ruth when she is given grain and saved from certain starvation, and there is the emotional salvation when she is taken in to Boaz’s home as his wife. When David is crowned as the next king, the whole nation of Israel will be saved from the suffering they have endured under Saul. Then, the angels comfort the shepherds with the promise of a SAVIOR who is Christ the Lord. This savior, who was born in the town of Bethlehem, will save HIS people from their sin and provide eternal SALVATION to all who believe. These events in Bethlehem beautifully demonstrates God’s LOVE and eternal provision for mankind.