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Bethlehem Road: A Guide to Ruth
Sometimes blaming God for our problems only blinds us to his providence.
Out of the immense moral darkness of the Judges period comes a story of romance, redemption, and hope. The tale of Ruth has inspired countless generations. But Ruth isn’t the star in this romantic drama; center stage belongs to God and his providence. Naomi and Ruth traveled the Bethlehem Road—one of famine, abandonment, grief, and loss—unaware that the Lord had gone before them to redeem their heartache.
If you’ve been living with a broken heart—if bitterness and disappointment have been your travel companions on life’s road, then Ruth’s story will inspire and strengthen you for the journey ahead. More than that, it will bring you to your knees in worship of your Redeemer and King.
Out of the immense moral darkness of the Judges period comes a story of romance, redemption, and hope. The tale of Ruth has inspired countless generations. But Ruth isn’t the star in this romantic drama; center stage belongs to God and his providence. Naomi and Ruth traveled the Bethlehem Road—one of famine, abandonment, grief, and loss—unaware that the Lord had gone before them to redeem their heartache.
If you’ve been living with a broken heart—if bitterness and disappointment have been your travel companions on life’s road, then Ruth’s story will inspire and strengthen you for the journey ahead. More than that, it will bring you to your knees in worship of your Redeemer and King.
- GenresChristian
182 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 31, 2014
9 people are currently reading
193 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
November 5, 2021
This little book is a combination commentary, study guide, and workbook for the short, four chapter, book of Ruth. If you are preparing to study, trying to teach, or going to preach from Ruth; this will be a good, concise reference book to have and consult. It was, is, and will be very helpful.
December 6, 2014
Michael Whitworth’s Bethlehem Road is more than a study of the Old Testament Book of Ruth. It is also a help through life changes that take us on the road back to Bethlehem with Naomi, mother-in-law of Ruth. Widowed and bereft of both sons, she returns to Bethlehem with only her faithful daughter-in-law, Ruth, after the famine ended that sent them originally to Moab. Ruth, you may remember, was the one daughter-in-law who chose to leave her homeland and family’s pagan religion, going with Naomi and worshipping the Lord of Israel with her and caring for her needs. Naomi wanted to be known only as Mara, as she believed the Lord had dealt bitterly with her.
We have each lost loved ones and treasured situations – a career, a home, even our health. We may not be able to change many of those circumstances to our satisfaction, but we can change how we choose to endure the road back to where we started from. Can we do that, and find that we are given even greater unexpected treasures on the way back to Bethlehem? As it is no mistake that the Lord led them back to where we understand our greatest treasure came to pitch His tent and live among us. The author shows clearly through his experience and the experiences of others – but primarily through Naomi and Ruth – that what we learn about the Lord’s love and provision on the journey make this trek to Bethlehem truly priceless.
Michael Whitworth shows solutions centered on God’s all-sufficient hesed – mercy, loving, grace, and faithfulness during times that we may not believe it exists. The timeline, cultural background explanations, quotes from Christian authors, and complete scriptural basis make surrendering to this seemingly bitter journey more palatable. He gently and thoroughly shows how the Lord’s plan of salvation includes Naomi, Ruth, and even Boaz, a kinsman redeemer whose heirs would bring about our true Redeemer.
I found this Bible Study could be used as an excellent devotional, also, to read and study through as far as I had each morning and reflect on the wonders and lessons of this small but mighty book. My copy is completely decorated with highlights, and if I had to select quotes that summarize this study the best, would respectfully show this, from a section of amazingly impactful truths (p. 106):
"God knew in advance about the world’s worst day, yet he providentially worked it for our good and his glory. When the Father was the most silent, he was not absent. . . Jesus’ death on the cross was the Father’s deliberate plan, and if the God of Israel can redeem the cross, then nothing can happen in your life or mine that he cannot redeem."
I highly recommend Bethlehem Road to young adults and adults of all ages who need a fresh touch of our Father’s hesed, those who have endured losses whose depth seems beyond healing. In short, at one time or another in our Christian walk we could each benefit from this Bible study. It is a worthy read, one which this reader has found needs to be read slowly with intent to receive all that the Lord has to show for your future. It is a keeper, a pointer to God’s holy, healing, sustaining Word.
With a grateful heart, I received a copy of this book through a Goodreads contest. All opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
We have each lost loved ones and treasured situations – a career, a home, even our health. We may not be able to change many of those circumstances to our satisfaction, but we can change how we choose to endure the road back to where we started from. Can we do that, and find that we are given even greater unexpected treasures on the way back to Bethlehem? As it is no mistake that the Lord led them back to where we understand our greatest treasure came to pitch His tent and live among us. The author shows clearly through his experience and the experiences of others – but primarily through Naomi and Ruth – that what we learn about the Lord’s love and provision on the journey make this trek to Bethlehem truly priceless.
Michael Whitworth shows solutions centered on God’s all-sufficient hesed – mercy, loving, grace, and faithfulness during times that we may not believe it exists. The timeline, cultural background explanations, quotes from Christian authors, and complete scriptural basis make surrendering to this seemingly bitter journey more palatable. He gently and thoroughly shows how the Lord’s plan of salvation includes Naomi, Ruth, and even Boaz, a kinsman redeemer whose heirs would bring about our true Redeemer.
I found this Bible Study could be used as an excellent devotional, also, to read and study through as far as I had each morning and reflect on the wonders and lessons of this small but mighty book. My copy is completely decorated with highlights, and if I had to select quotes that summarize this study the best, would respectfully show this, from a section of amazingly impactful truths (p. 106):
"God knew in advance about the world’s worst day, yet he providentially worked it for our good and his glory. When the Father was the most silent, he was not absent. . . Jesus’ death on the cross was the Father’s deliberate plan, and if the God of Israel can redeem the cross, then nothing can happen in your life or mine that he cannot redeem."
I highly recommend Bethlehem Road to young adults and adults of all ages who need a fresh touch of our Father’s hesed, those who have endured losses whose depth seems beyond healing. In short, at one time or another in our Christian walk we could each benefit from this Bible study. It is a worthy read, one which this reader has found needs to be read slowly with intent to receive all that the Lord has to show for your future. It is a keeper, a pointer to God’s holy, healing, sustaining Word.
With a grateful heart, I received a copy of this book through a Goodreads contest. All opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
October 11, 2014
“Out of the immense moral darkness of the Judges period comes a story of romance, redemption, and hope. The tale of Ruth has inspired countless generations. But Ruth isn’t the star in this romantic drama; center stage belongs to God and his providence. Naomi and Ruth traveled the Bethlehem Road—one of famine, abandonment, grief, and loss—unaware that the Lord had gone before them to redeem their heartache.”
Bethlehem Road is the third book/bible study that I have read by Michael Whitworth. The Derision of Heaven and Living & Longing for the Lord being the other two. Once again, I was not disappointed. The author writes these books as Bible Study’s, and yes they are, but to me they go deeper than that. They are not your typical, read a chapter and answer the questions bible studies.
They are a study of the whole Biblical Book – in this case the Book of Ruth – that goes “behind the scenes”, behind just the words. The writer teaches about the cultural, historical and political climate and details of that time while he is teaching you the Book. If you are looking for a great commentary on the Book of Ruth, then I highly recommend this book.
About the Author: Michael Whitworth is the owner of Start2Finish Books and preaches in Bowie, Texas. He is the author of several works, including two award-winning books, The Epic of God and The Derision of Heaven. He is an avid landscape photographer and blogs regularly at Start2Finish Blog, a reflection of his daily struggle to become more like Jesus. He considers M&Ms his brain food is fond of large Mason jars. He's a big fan of the Dallas Cowboys and Alabama Crimson Tide. In his spare time, Michael loves reading and drinking coffee, watching sports, and spending time with his family and furry golden retriever.
Disclosure of Material: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookCrash.com book review program, which requires an honest, though not necessarily positive, review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR Title 16, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
*Reviews of this book were posted at the following locations:
Amazon, Christian Book, Deeper Shopping, Goodreads, and to be featured on my blog at http://titus3.wordpress.com
Bethlehem Road is the third book/bible study that I have read by Michael Whitworth. The Derision of Heaven and Living & Longing for the Lord being the other two. Once again, I was not disappointed. The author writes these books as Bible Study’s, and yes they are, but to me they go deeper than that. They are not your typical, read a chapter and answer the questions bible studies.
They are a study of the whole Biblical Book – in this case the Book of Ruth – that goes “behind the scenes”, behind just the words. The writer teaches about the cultural, historical and political climate and details of that time while he is teaching you the Book. If you are looking for a great commentary on the Book of Ruth, then I highly recommend this book.
About the Author: Michael Whitworth is the owner of Start2Finish Books and preaches in Bowie, Texas. He is the author of several works, including two award-winning books, The Epic of God and The Derision of Heaven. He is an avid landscape photographer and blogs regularly at Start2Finish Blog, a reflection of his daily struggle to become more like Jesus. He considers M&Ms his brain food is fond of large Mason jars. He's a big fan of the Dallas Cowboys and Alabama Crimson Tide. In his spare time, Michael loves reading and drinking coffee, watching sports, and spending time with his family and furry golden retriever.
Disclosure of Material: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookCrash.com book review program, which requires an honest, though not necessarily positive, review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR Title 16, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
*Reviews of this book were posted at the following locations:
Amazon, Christian Book, Deeper Shopping, Goodreads, and to be featured on my blog at http://titus3.wordpress.com
August 26, 2014
I received this book as past of the Good reads First Reads Program for the purpose of a fair review.
Overview: This commentary is designed to show us that the Book of Ruth is relevant to today’s world.
Likes: Pastor Michael Whitworth has encouraged people to go to the Law, and to do it to the best of their abilities.
Dislikes: The book went with the wrong belief about the Book of Ruth. It’s not really a love story; it’s a story about the kinsman-redeemer. Without the proper foundation, you’ll see the people in a light that was never there.
Conclusion: It can be a great book. Just remember: when Mary sat at the feet of Jesus, it was to learn not to seduce.
Overview: This commentary is designed to show us that the Book of Ruth is relevant to today’s world.
Likes: Pastor Michael Whitworth has encouraged people to go to the Law, and to do it to the best of their abilities.
Dislikes: The book went with the wrong belief about the Book of Ruth. It’s not really a love story; it’s a story about the kinsman-redeemer. Without the proper foundation, you’ll see the people in a light that was never there.
Conclusion: It can be a great book. Just remember: when Mary sat at the feet of Jesus, it was to learn not to seduce.
March 8, 2015
I began Bethlehem Road shortly after my Grandfather's passing, not realizing it's focus was mainly on dealing with grief. However, I am extremely thankful for God's providence and timing. Michael's words have helped immensely as I travel down the Bethlehem road. He does a great job dissecting the book of Ruth and explaining many of the customs/traditions of that time period while pointing out principles we should apply to our lives. I especially enjoy Micheal's writing because he is able to write a Bible study book that is easy to read, rather than purely commentary. This is a book I have already started recommending to those dealing with grief and will continue to do.
September 2, 2014
I listened to this book, the first time I have ever done that. This book does a great job at showing the providence of God. The "Talking Points" sections of the book bring out very interesting and worthwhile thoughts. The in depth research is very obvious. I would highly recommend this book for anyone. If you have recently suffered a loss in you life I could see this book being very uplifting. This book is for everyone.
I really enjoyed some of the quotes made by Mr. Whitworth a lot of them had me laughing and remembering things in my life.
I really enjoyed some of the quotes made by Mr. Whitworth a lot of them had me laughing and remembering things in my life.
March 11, 2015
Whitworth is able to bring the story of Ruth to life, enhancing details through word study and scholarly interjections. His “Talking Points” located at the end of each chapter are the highlights. They give application that allow the book to be an easy resource for sermon preperation, small-group study, or personal application.
read the full review at http://www.hopengriffin.com/how-bethl...
read the full review at http://www.hopengriffin.com/how-bethl...
October 18, 2014
I received this free from a Goodreads giveaway.
It is a good study of the book of Ruth. The author pulls in commentary from many sources, so the reader has an idea of what previous thinkers have concluded. Each chapter ends with a set of 'talking points', which will be useful for groups that want to use this as a study guide.
It is a good study of the book of Ruth. The author pulls in commentary from many sources, so the reader has an idea of what previous thinkers have concluded. Each chapter ends with a set of 'talking points', which will be useful for groups that want to use this as a study guide.
September 13, 2014
This was a good companion study to the book of Ruth in the Bible. It gave some history to the story and had some interesting observations on the subject. It really tied to Ruth as a reason to worship God. Good book.
November 12, 2015
This was a good read give away.....I expected it to be more of a historical fiction so I was disappointed because of that. However it would be helpful for someone needing that guidance.
July 29, 2016
I like this book, and I like that it put the book of Ruth in a new prospected. I won this in a giveaway. Thank you to the person for this book!
August 22, 2014
A great novel to help you have a better understanding all the verses in the book of Ruth. What great read!
July 25, 2015
Much like taxes and death, a journey down the Bethlehem Road is not a question of "if..." but "when..." I am so grateful for this book and the work that went into it.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews