Ruth 4:13-22

Old Testament Typology

Type- A person, place, object or event in the Old Testament which foreshadows and/or illustrates New Testament truth

Why Typology is unpopular in some circles
1. Some have taken types too far, finding hidden meanings in almost every detail
2. Some dismiss the idea completely, doubting such divine guidance to Scripture

The New Testament uses 5 key words to describe this concept
1. Tupos (Figure or example...Romans 5:14, Hebrews 8:5)
2. Skia (Shadow...Colossians 2:17, Hebrews 8:5, 10:1)
3. Hupodergma (Copy...Hebrews 8:5, 9:23)
4. Parabole (Figure or illustration...Hebrews 9:9)
5. Antitupon (Figure or pattern or likeness...Hebrews 9:24, 1 Peter 3:21)

Types of 'Types'
1. Typical Persons (Adam, Moses, Joshua, etc)
2. Typical Places (Egypt, Jerusalem, Babylon, etc)
3. Typical Things (Jacob's Latter, Brazen Serpent, Tabernacle, etc)
4. Typical Events (Creation, flood, manna from heaven, exile, etc)
5. Typical Offices (Prophet, Priest, King, etc)
6. Typical Days (Passover, Pentecost, etc)

So what about Ruth?
Boaz- He seems to be a clear 'type' of Christ, our Kinsman Redeemer
Ruth- Ruth could represent gentile believers and/or the bride of Christ
Naomi- She may represent faithful Israel
1st Kinsman- This unnamed man may represent the law, which couldn't redeem

What was the purpose of the book of Ruth?
1. It provides a link to David
2. It shows light during the dark times of the judges
3. It foreshadows Christ
4. It tells a beautiful story