Lutheran Lens Commentary: Ruth 1:1-5

Lutheran Lens Reading of Ruth 1:1-5

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read Ruth 1:1-5 through the lens of Law and Gospel, recognizing the Law's revelation of human frailty and suffering in the face of famine and death. This passage highlights the consequences of living in a fallen world, where the Law exposes our inability to secure our own future. However, we also see the foreshadowing of the Gospel in God's providential care, setting the stage for Ruth's redemptive story that ultimately points to Christ as our true kinsman-redeemer. This reading underscores the theology of the cross, where God's grace is found amid suffering and loss.

Key Language Decisions

The Hebrew word 'שֹׁפְטִים' (shoftim, 'judges') sets the historical context, pointing to a time of instability and disobedience in Israel, highlighting the Law's judgment. The term 'יְהוּדָה' (Yehuda, 'Judah') is significant as it foreshadows the messianic line. While the passage lacks significant linguistic ambiguities, our tradition emphasizes the Law's exposure of human insufficiency and the Gospel's implicit promise of God's faithfulness, as seen in Ruth's eventual inclusion in the lineage of Christ.

Where Traditions Diverge

Unlike Reformed traditions that might emphasize covenant fidelity or decision theology, we stress the theology of the cross, where God's work in hiddenness and suffering is central. While some traditions might focus on moral lessons about loyalty and family, we concentrate on God's unfolding plan of redemption, which points to Christ's work for us. Our emphasis on Law and Gospel ensures that the narrative leads us to Christ, rather than focusing merely on human examples or moral imperatives.

Pastoral Application

A Lutheran Lens pastor should preach Ruth 1:1-5 by acknowledging the harsh realities of life under the Law — famine, death, and displacement — allowing the Law to do its full work of showing our need for a Savior. Yet, the Gospel is proclaimed as God’s providence unfolds even in darkness, pointing to Christ, our ultimate Redeemer. Congregants should hear the assurance that God's grace operates even in life's tragedies, underscoring their baptismal identity as loved and redeemed. We emphasize that while we live in a world of suffering, our hope and righteousness are found in Christ alone, not our circumstances.

Cross-References: Genesis 12:10; Deuteronomy 28:47-48; Matthew 1:5; Romans 8:28; Romans 5:20-21

Doctrinal Connections: theology of the cross; justification by faith alone; simul justus et peccator; vocation; God's providence