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
Verse 17 presents a spiritual invitation: the Spirit and the bride say, Come. Let the one who hears say, Come. Let the one who is thirsty come. Whoever desires, let them take the water of life freely. The Spirit and the Bride—God’s Spirit and the church together—extend hospitality to all. The repeated call underscores urgency and universal inclusion: salvation is available, not exclusive to a select few. “Water of life” evokes eternal life and sustenance, drawing from Old Testament wells and Jesus’ own offer to the Samaritan woman (John 4). The verse contains both divine initiative (the Spirit) and human response (the bride’s invitation). It captures the eschatological tension: the current age is marked by invitation until God’s final consummation.
This is a core statement about grace: the water of life is freely given, not earned by works. It emphasizes God’s generosity and the open invitation to all who thirst for meaning, life, and truth. The Spirit’s call and the church’s participation together display the Trinitarian and ecclesial dynamics of salvation—God, Spirit, and community inviting into fellowship with Him. It also marks the eschatological urgency: the invitation remains open until the culmination of history.
As a modern reader, engage this invitation personally: acknowledge your thirst for life that goes beyond mere success or pleasure. Accept the water of life through faith in Christ, and commit to being part of the Spirit-filled church that invites others. Practical steps include sharing your faith with others in everyday conversations, volunteering to meet tangible needs, and creating spaces where people can hear the gospel. It’s about living hospitable, generous, and vulnerable lives that reflect Christ’s welcome.
Cross-References: Isaiah 55:1; John 4:10–14; John 7:37–39; Acts 2:17–18; Revelation 2:7