This is a stand-alone sermon on what it means to be part of the local church.
The book of Ruth reminds us of the redemption of God, and how Jesus is our rightful and willing Kinsman-Redeemer.
The book of Ruth reminds us of the love of God, and how God so loved us that He sent His Son to shelter us from His wrath against sin.
The book of Ruth reminds us of the providence of God, and how God has placed us in this time and place to care for the spiritually and physically poor in this world.
The book of Ruth reminds us of the loyalty of God, and how God will not leave His children in despair and tragedy.
The resurrection of Jesus teaches us that the faith Jesus authors in us He will perfect.
The faith of these “others” teaches us to hold fast to God and His promises, even in the face of suffering.
The faith of Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego teaches us that it is possible to be faithful to God when the world around us is not.
The faith of Elijah teaches us to grab hold of the promises of God, no matter what we are facing, because of what Christ has done for us.
The faith of Gideon, Barak, Samson, and Jephthah teaches us that God uses flawed people to accomplish His great purposes.