Advent 2025 Part 3 with Discussion Guide

Advent 2025 Part 3 Discussion Guide

Summary

This sermon explores the concept of peace through the story of Ruth and Boaz in Ruth chapter 3, connecting it to the Christmas story. Pastor Steve explains how Boaz serves as a kinsman redeemer for Ruth, paralleling how Jesus serves as our ultimate kinsman redeemer. The message emphasizes that true peace comes from being reconciled to God through Jesus Christ, who stepped into our desperate situation to redeem us from sin and bring us into His family. Just as Ruth placed herself vulnerably at Boaz’s feet seeking redemption, we must place ourselves at Jesus’ feet and ask Him to be our Savior and Redeemer.

Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, as we gather together today to study Your Word, we ask that You open our hearts and minds to what You want to teach us. Help us to be receptive to Your Spirit’s leading and to see how the story of Ruth and Boaz points us to the greater story of redemption through Jesus Christ. May we experience Your peace in new and deeper ways as we explore these truths together. Guide our discussion and help us to encourage one another in our faith journey. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Ice Breaker

What’s one Christmas tradition or memory that brings you the most peace and joy during the holiday season?

Key Verses

Ruth 3:9
Ruth 3:10-13
Galatians 3:22-23
Galatians 4:4-5
Mark 10:45
Leviticus 25:25

Questions

How does the concept of a kinsman redeemer in the Old Testament help us understand what Jesus has done for us?
Ruth took a great risk by approaching Boaz at the threshing floor. What risks might we need to take to experience God’s redemption in our lives?
Pastor Steve mentioned that peace with God leads to experiencing the peace of God. How have you seen this progression in your own life?
In what ways was Ruth’s situation desperate, and how does that mirror our spiritual condition before Christ?
Boaz could only redeem Ruth because she asked him to. Why is it important that we must ask Jesus to be our Savior rather than Him automatically saving everyone?
How does knowing that Jesus is ‘Emmanuel – God with us’ bring you peace during difficult or uncertain circumstances?
What does it mean practically to ‘place yourself at the feet of your redeemer’ in your daily life?
How can understanding Jesus as our kinsman redeemer change the way we approach prayer and our relationship with God?

Life Application

This week, identify one area of your life where you need to experience God’s peace more fully. Each day, spend time in prayer specifically placing that concern ‘at the feet of Jesus’ and asking Him to be your redeemer in that situation. Practice trusting in His character and compassion, just as Ruth trusted in Boaz’s righteousness.

Key Takeaways

Jesus is our ultimate kinsman redeemer who stepped into our desperate situation to rescue us from sin
True peace begins with being reconciled to God through Jesus Christ
Like Ruth, we must vulnerably place ourselves at Jesus’ feet and ask Him to redeem us
God’s presence with us (Emmanuel) enables us to experience His peace regardless of our circumstances
Redemption is offered freely but must be personally received through faith in Jesus

Ending Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for being our kinsman redeemer who paid the ultimate price for our freedom. We are grateful that You stepped into our desperate situation with mercy, strength, and sacrificial love. Help us to live in the peace that comes from knowing we are reconciled to You and adopted into Your family. May we continue to place our lives at Your feet, trusting in Your character and compassion. As we go from here, help us to share this message of redemption and peace with others who need to know You. In Your precious name, Amen.

Steve Lawes is a Church Consultant and also provides coaching for pastors, churches, ministries and church planters.