Resources for Individuals or Group  

 
Ruth and Esther: A Double-Edged Bible Study by TH1NK: LifeChange
(Book)
This ten week study is designed to help readers understand both the thematic and specific truths found in Ruth and Esther in a way that guides them to real life application. The guide provides helpful background information to the books and general guidance to foster connections and dialogue around the text thus leaving room for the leader to tailor a meeting that meets the needs of their individual group. Groups may choose to study only the sessions covering Ruth (5 in number) or choose to use the entire guide to study the truths found in both Old Testament books. This guide is appropriate for maturing small groups.


Resources for Individuals or Small Group Leaders

The Message of Ruth by David Atkinson
(Book)
This commentary from The Bible Speaks Today series provides an excellent overview of the central issues and themes of Ruth in an understandable manner. Atkinson provides explanation of the background of Ruth as well as a thorough commentary on each chapter. Having described the meaning of the text, Atkinson next helps his readers understand how to apply the truths of Ruth in a modern context. This commentary is appropriate for small group leaders and any individual who wishes to understand the message of Ruth and how this message addresses our lives today.
 

The Gospel of Ruth: Loving God Enough to Break the Rules by Carolyn Custis James
(Book)
With this work, Carolyn Custis James provides a fresh look into the story of Ruth. James contends that Ruth was never intended to be read as an ancient romance or story of friendship. Instead, James notes that the message of Ruth is a powerful message of God's providence and movement that breaks conventional rules and wisdom. According to James, the God who breaks the rules calls His people to follow Him by acting in the same bold manner to further His Kingdom in the world. This work is a must read for individuals who wish to understand how the themes of the text of Ruth work to shape their lives and faith as they follow God.
 

Handbook on the Historical Books by Victor P. Hamilton
(Book)
The Handbook on the Historical Books provides readers with an in-depth overview of the background, content, and theological movements of the historical books of the Old Testament (Joshua through Esther). This work is a fundamental resource for every small group leader and individuals who wish to understand the background and big picture of the Old Testament historical books.
 

 

Zondervan Handbook to the Bible
(Book)
The Zondervan Handbook to the Bible is one of the best-selling Bible handbooks available today. With hundreds of color photographs and articles by some of the best modern biblical scholars this handbooks provides readers with an overview of each book of the Bible as well as pertinent background and contextual information. This work is a fundamental resource for every student of the Bible.