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 22:17KJVWhat does Revelation 22:17 mean?
Revelation 22:17 is an open invitation for anyone who desires spiritual life to come and receive it freely, offered by both the Spirit and the bride. The verse emphasizes that anyone who is thirsty for what God gives is welcome to take the "water of life" without cost or restriction.
In this scene, the "Spirit" refers to God's Holy Spirit, and the "bride" represents the collective people of God, often understood as the church. Together, they call out for Jesus to come, and they also invite anyone listening to respond. The verse highlights the generosity and openness of God's offer, stressing that the only requirement is a willing heart—those who "will" may come and receive. This invitation stands at the close of the Bible, summing up the message of hope and access to life that runs throughout Scripture.
The Greek behind Revelation 22:17
- ἔρχου (erchou, "Come"): This word is used as both a call for Jesus to return and as an invitation for people to approach. The repetition shows both longing for Christ's coming and the open invitation to all.
- διψᾷ (dipsaō, "athirst"): This word means to be thirsty, often used for deep spiritual longing. The verse singles out those who feel a need or emptiness, assuring them they are especially welcome.
- θέλω (thelō, "will"): This word means to desire or wish. The invitation is not limited by background or worthiness—anyone who wants to may come.
- δωρεάν (dōrean, "freely"): This word means as a gift, without payment. It stresses that the "water of life" is not something that can be earned or bought, but is given at no cost.
Why Revelation 22:17 matters
- Revelation 22:17 clears up any idea that God's invitation is exclusive or limited; it is open to all who desire it, regardless of background or status.
- The verse highlights the unity of the Spirit and the church ("the bride") in longing for Christ's return and in inviting others to share in God's gift.
- This verse connects the end of Revelation to the whole biblical story, echoing earlier promises of living water and showing that the offer of life remains open until the very end.