New Testament
Revelation 22:17
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Revelation 22:17, the invitation to come and receive the water of life is extended by both the Holy Spirit and the bride, which represents the Church.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 95
- Genre
- Apocalyptic prophecy
- Original Audience
- The seven churches of Asia Minor
The Holy Spirit and the bride say, "Come!" Let everyone who hears this say, "Come!" Let anyone who is thirsty come. Let anyone who wants it take the water of life as a free gift.
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.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Revelation 22:17, the invitation to come and receive the water of life is extended by both the Holy Spirit and the bride, which represents the Church. This verse emphasizes the openness of God's grace, inviting anyone who hears the message to respond. The phrase 'let anyone who is thirsty come' highlights the spiritual thirst that many feel, suggesting that Jesus offers fulfillment and satisfaction. The water of life symbolizes eternal life and the salvation that is freely available to all who desire it. This passage underscores the importance of sharing the gospel message, as it calls for a collective response from believers to invite others to experience God's love and grace. The invitation is not limited to a select few; it is inclusive, encouraging everyone to partake in the gift of salvation without cost. This reflects the core Christian belief that salvation is a gift from God, accessible to all who seek it sincerely.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Revelation 22:17 to your life
As believers, we are called to share the message of hope and salvation with others. We should actively invite those around us to experience the love of Christ and the fulfillment that comes from accepting His gift of eternal life. Everyone is welcome.
Curated for this public verse page. Revelation Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Revelation 22:17 mean?
Revelation 22:17 conveys an invitation from the Holy Spirit and the Church for everyone to come and receive the gift of eternal life. It emphasizes that salvation is freely available to anyone who is spiritually thirsty and desires it.
What is the meaning of 'water of life' in Revelation 22:17?
The 'water of life' in Revelation 22:17 symbolizes eternal life and the salvation offered by Jesus. It represents spiritual fulfillment and the satisfaction that comes from accepting God's grace.
Who is the bride mentioned in Revelation 22:17?
In Revelation 22:17, the bride represents the Church, which is called to invite others to experience God's love and salvation. The Church plays a key role in sharing the message of hope.
How does Revelation 22:17 relate to sharing the gospel?
Revelation 22:17 encourages believers to actively share the message of salvation with others. It highlights the importance of inviting those around us to experience the love and grace of God.
The Book of Revelation
Revelation 1: The Revelation of Jesus Christ
This is the revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gives Him to show His servants things which must shortly come to pass, sent and signified by His angel to John, who bears record of the word of God. A blessing is pronounced upon those who read and hear the words of this prophecy and keep the things written therein, for the time is at hand. John writes to the seven churches in Asia, sending grace and peace from Him which is, and which was, and which is to come, and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the first begotten of the dead, who washed us from our sins in His own blood. He declares Himself Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending. John, in the isle of Patmos for the word of God, is in the Spirit on the Lord's day and hears behind him a great voice as a trumpet. Turning, he sees seven golden candlesticks and one like the Son of man among them, clothed to the foot, His head and hairs white as wool, His eyes as a flame of fire, His feet like fine brass, His voice as the sound of many waters, seven stars in His right hand, and a sharp twoedged sword going out of His mouth. John falls at His feet as dead, and the Lord lays His right hand upon him, saying, Fear not, I am the first and the last, He that liveth and was dead and is alive for evermore. He reveals that the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches and the seven candlesticks are the seven churches.
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