Revelation 22:17

And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.

Revelation 22:17 (KJV)

Context

The book of Revelation is the final book of the Bible and contains a vision given to the Apostle John about the end times. It includes prophecies and symbols related to the second coming of Jesus Christ, the final judgment, and the establishment of God’s eternal kingdom. This verse stands near the close of that vision, forming the Bible’s final invitation.

Meaning

Revelation 22:17 presents a powerful invitation from the Spirit and the bride to “come.” The Spirit refers to the Holy Spirit, and the bride represents the Church, the redeemed people of God. Together, they extend an invitation to all who hear the message to come and partake of the water of life. The call to come is repeated three times in this verse, highlighting its importance and urgency.

The invitation is universal. It is not limited to a specific group but is extended to all who hear the message. Those who have heard the message are to pass on the invitation, saying “Come” to others. The Spirit and the Church respond with an affectionate longing for Christ’s coming, echoing His own promise that He will come quickly.

The invitation is specifically directed to those who are “athirst.” This refers to those who have a spiritual longing or a deep sense of spiritual need. It recognizes that humanity is spiritually thirsty and in need of the living water that only Jesus can provide.

The water of life symbolizes the gift of eternal life and spiritual nourishment that comes through a relationship with Jesus Christ. It represents salvation, forgiveness of sins, and the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. The invitation declares that this water is freely available to anyone who desires it. It emphasizes the grace and accessibility of God’s offer of salvation.

The invitation extends to “whosoever will.” This phrase emphasizes that the invitation is open to anyone who chooses to accept it. It highlights the freedom of choice and the personal decision required to receive the water of life. The phrase “freely” emphasizes the gracious nature of God’s offer. Salvation is not something that can be earned or bought but is a gift freely given by God. It demonstrates His abundant love and mercy towards humanity.

Biblical connections

The imagery of the bride and the Spirit together underscores the intimate relationship between Christ and His Church, and the shared mission of inviting the world to come to Christ. The free gift of the water of life contrasts with any notion of earning salvation through works.

Application

Revelation 22:17 highlights the universal invitation to salvation extended by the Holy Spirit and the Church. It emphasizes the urgency to respond to the call, recognizing our spiritual thirst and the need for the water of life found in Jesus Christ. It also underscores the free and gracious nature of God’s offer, available to all who are willing to accept it.

Reflection

The verse concludes with an open-ended invitation, leaving no one excluded who is willing to come. It calls each hearer to respond in faith and to join the Spirit and the bride in extending that same invitation to others.