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Revelation 22:17
Verse
Context
Jesus Is Coming
16“I, Jesus, have sent My angel to give you this testimony for the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the bright Morning Star.”17The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” Let the one who hears say, “Come!” And let the one who is thirsty come, and the one who desires the water of life drink freely.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The Spirit and the bride - All the prophets and all the apostles; the Church of God under the Old Testament, and the Church of Christ under the New. Say, Come - Invite men to Jesus, that by him they may be saved and prepared for this kingdom. Let him that heareth - Let all who are privileged with reading and hearing the word of God, join in the general invitation to sinners. Him that is athirst - He who feels his need of salvation, and is longing to drink of the living fountain. And whosoever will - No soul is excluded: Jesus died for every man; every man may be saved; therefore let him who wills, who wishes for salvation, come and take the water of life freely - without money or price!
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Reply of the spiritual Church and John to Christ's words (Rev 22:7, Rev 22:12, Rev 22:16). the Spirit--in the churches and in the prophets. the bride--not here called "wife," as that title applies to her only when the full number constituting the Church shall have been completed. The invitation, "Come," only holds good while the Church is still but an affianced Bride, and not the actually wedded wife. However, "Come" may rather be the prayer of the Spirit in the Church and in believers in reply to Christ's "I come quickly," crying, Even so, "Come" (Rev 22:7, Rev 22:12); Rev 22:20 confirms this view. The whole question of your salvation hinges on this, that you be able to hear with joy Christ's announcement, "I come," and to reply, "Come" [BENGEL]. Come to fully glorify Thy Bride. let him that heareth--that is, let him that heareth the Spirit and Bride saying to the Lord Jesus, "Come," join the Bride as a true believer, become part of her, and so say with her to Jesus, "Come." On "heareth" means "obeyeth"; for until one has obeyed the Gospel call, he cannot pray to Jesus "Come"; so "hear" is used, Rev 1:3; Joh 10:16. Let him that hears and obeys Jesus' voice (Rev 22:16; Rev 1:3) join in praying "Come." Compare Rev 6:1, Rev 6:10; see on Rev 6:1. In the other view, which makes "Come" an invitation to sinners, this clause urges those who themselves hear savingly the invitation to address the same to others, as did Andrew and Philip after they themselves had heard and obeyed Jesus' invitation, "Come." let him that is athirst come--As the Bride, the Church, prays to Jesus, "Come," so she urges all whosoever thirst for participation in the full manifestation of redemption-glory at His coming to us, to COME in the meantime and drink of the living waters, which are the earnest of "the water of life pure as crystal . . . out of the throne of God of the Lamb" (Rev 22:1) in the regenerated heaven and earth. And--so Syriac. But A, B, Vulgate, and Coptic omit "and." whosoever will--that is, is willing and desirous. There is a descending climax; Let him that heareth effectually and savingly Christ's voice, pray individually, as the Bride, the Church, does collectively, "Come, Lord Jesus" (Rev 22:20). Let him who, though not yet having actually heard unto salvation, and so not yet able to join in the prayer, "Lord Jesus, come, "still thirsts for it, come to Christ. Whosoever is even willing, though his desires do not yet amount to positive thirsting, let him take the water of life freely, that is, gratuitously.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And the Spirit and the bride say, come,.... Hearing Christ say that he should come quickly, Rev 22:7 the Spirit and the bride express an earnest wish, and a most affectionate desire after his coming: by "the Spirit" may be meant the Spirit of God in the hearts of his people, who not only convinces them of, and acquaints with the coming of Christ to judgment, and gives them reason to expect it, but fills their souls with the love of his appearance, so that they look and long for it, and hasten in the breathings of their souls after it: and this in like manner he may be said to wish for, and desire it in them, as he is said to cry "Abba", Father, in them, Gal 4:6 and to make intercession for them, Rom 8:26. Hence, some interpreters, by the spirit, understand such as have the Spirit, and are spiritual men; either have spiritual gifts, the gift of prophecy, as John, who in Rev 22:20 expresses an ardent desire that Christ would come quickly; or regenerate men in common, who are born of the Spirit, and bear his name, Joh 3:5 and so by an hendyadis, "the Spirit and the bride" signify one and the same; namely, the spiritual bride of Christ, who is sanctified by the Spirit of God; even all the elect of God, whom Christ loved from all eternity, and who are espoused to him as a chaste virgin; the new Jerusalem, who is as a bride adorned for her husband, and is the bride, the Lamb's wife: these wait for the bridegroom's coming, and most earnestly desire it, as there is good reason for them so to do, since his appearing in itself will be a glorious one, being in his own glory, and his Father's, and the holy angels; and seeing then will be the solemnization of the marriage day between Christ and his church; it will be the saints' redemption day; they will then possess full salvation in soul and body; complete grace will be given to them, and glory will be revealed in them, and they shall be for ever with the Lord. And let him that heareth; what the Spirit and the bride say; or the words of this prophecy; or that has spiritual ears given him, and he hears so as to understand spiritual things, the kingdom of Christ, and the glories of it, let him join the Spirit and bride, and say, come likewise; or express his wishes and desires in the same earnest and affectionate manner, that Christ would hasten his second coming: and let him that is athirst come. These seem to be the words of Christ inviting such who thirst after him, his grace and righteousness, after more knowledge of him, and communion with him, to come unto him, by faith, and partake thereof, Joh 7:37 or who thirst after his second coming, and the glories and delights of the new Jerusalem state, to come into it, and eat of the tree of life, and drink of the river of water of life in it; for the character seems to design such, to speak in the language of the Jews, who use like phrases with this, who hunger, , "and thirst to drink living water" (m), as appears by what follows: and whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely. The water of life designs the free favour and love of God, and the communications and displays of it in the new Jerusalem state, even the comfort, refreshment, and glories of that state: to "take" it is to enjoy it, to partake of it, being led unto it, and that being given to them by Christ the Lamb in the midst of the throne, Rev 7:17 and which is had "freely", without money, and without price, as in Isa 55:1 which seems to be referred to; for the happiness of this state, as well as eternal life, is the free gift of God through Christ; and the persons encouraged to partake of it are "whosoever will"; that is, whoever has a will to divine and spiritual things, wrought in him by God, for no man has such a will of himself, Phi 2:13 though this does not so much regard the character of the person that may take of the water of life, as the free manner in which he may take it: so the Jews are wont to express themselves, when they would signify the liberty that might be used, or the free way in which anything might be taken, particularly when speaking of the law, and the things of it, "whosoever has a mind to take, let him come and take", as it is said, Isa 55:1 "ho, everyone that thirsteth", &c. (n) that is, he is free to take, he is welcome to it; which passage referred to, is thus paraphrased by the Targumist, "ho, , "whosoever "will" learn, let him come and learn, &c. (m) Raziel, fol. 31. 2. (n) Abot R. Nathan, c. 4l. Tzeror Hammor, fol. 79. 4. & 82. 4. Yalkut Simeoni, par. 2. fol. 54. 3. & 100. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
22:17 Come is a repeated invitation and a confession (see 22:20). • the bride: The Lamb’s wife (see 21:9) is the church, the people of God. • The thirsty can drink freely from God’s provision (see 21:6; 22:1; Ps 42:1; Isa 55:1; John 4:10-14).
Revelation 22:17
Jesus Is Coming
16“I, Jesus, have sent My angel to give you this testimony for the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the bright Morning Star.”17The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” Let the one who hears say, “Come!” And let the one who is thirsty come, and the one who desires the water of life drink freely.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Voice of the Holy Spirit
By A.W. Tozer17K55:50Holy SpiritMAT 11:28JHN 7:17JHN 16:7REV 22:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the state of being lost that humanity is in. He describes how people are lost inwardly and unaware of their lostness. The preacher also criticizes the superficial faith of those who simply go through the motions of religious practices without true transformation. However, amidst this lost world, the preacher highlights that God has not forsaken humanity and continues to speak through various voices, inviting and urging people to come to Him. The sermon emphasizes the need for genuine repentance and transformation through the power of Jesus Christ.
Full Time Ministry
By David Wilkerson7.6K55:59ApathyISA 28:16REV 1:9REV 1:19REV 3:20REV 4:1REV 22:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of God's word to comfort and encourage His people, even in times of fear and insecurity. The sermon is based on Isaiah 28, where the nation is under judgment and has made an agreement with hell and death. The preacher highlights the need for believers to have a "Patmos experience," where they shut out distractions and seek the voice of the Lord. He challenges the congregation to have a media fast and become full-time ministers unto the Lord, just like John on the island of Patmos.
I Will Come Again
By Leonard Ravenhill7.0K1:06:20Second ComingMAT 28:6JHN 14:3JHN 19:30ACT 1:111TH 4:162TI 3:1REV 22:17REV 22:20In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the promise given by Jesus Christ that he will come again. He highlights the significance of Jesus' words, "I will come again and receive you unto myself." The preacher emphasizes the fear and panic that exists in the world, but reminds the audience that Jesus' promise brings hope and assurance. He also references a scripture from Paul's first letter to the Thessalonians, which describes the Lord descending from heaven with a shout and the voice of the archangel. The preacher concludes by highlighting the darkness and brokenness of the world, but encourages the audience to trust in Jesus' promise of his return.
The God Who Devastates
By Art Katz5.0K55:30DevastationJOB 34:32PSA 119:71ISA 42:8MAT 6:33ROM 11:111CO 2:14REV 22:17In this sermon, the speaker begins by urging the audience to humble themselves before God and seek His guidance. He mentions that his books, available in the foyer, are more comprehensive and anointed than his spoken words. The main topic of the sermon is the Holocaust and the speaker emphasizes the magnitude of the devastation caused by the systematic genocide of six million Jews. He highlights the shocking aspect that this atrocity did not occur in a primitive or uncivilized area, but in a supposedly civilized society. The speaker calls for a deeper understanding of the gravity of the situation and a realization that we are living beneath the glory of God. He references the story of Moses and how God called him because he turned aside to see, suggesting that we too need to turn aside from our shallow existence and truly see God.
Relating to Relevant Authority
By A.W. Tozer3.8K38:41AuthorityPRO 30:5ISA 1:18MAT 11:28LUK 16:19ROM 10:9EPH 2:8REV 22:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power and authority of the word of God. He compares it to a beautiful invitation from God himself, not a decision made by religious leaders. The preacher encourages listeners to enter into a personal relationship with God through the word, promising forgiveness, guidance, and strength. He quotes several Bible verses that highlight God's mercy, the invitation to come to him for rest, and the promise of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.
Bristol Conference 1964 (Apostasy) - Part 8
By William MacDonald2.4K44:38ApostasyMRK 8:34HEB 10:31REV 22:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of caring for the soul rather than just focusing on the needs of the body. He highlights how people often prioritize physical needs like food, clothing, and entertainment, but neglect the spiritual aspect of their lives. The preacher quotes from Mark chapter 8, where Jesus teaches about the need to deny oneself, take up the cross, and follow Him. He warns that gaining the whole world but losing one's soul is a great loss, and encourages listeners not to be ashamed of Jesus and His words.
Memory - the Handmaid of Hope
By C.H. Spurgeon2.3K52:10PSA 69:33ISA 53:5JHN 14:16ACT 14:22ROM 5:51TI 1:15REV 22:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of remembering the promises of God in difficult times. He shares a story of a young man who had to prove his rightful inheritance in court but lacked sufficient evidence. However, he discovers an old parchment in his father's chest that provides the necessary proof. The preacher then reminds the audience that there is a promise in the Bible that perfectly applies to their situation. He declares that Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners, which is the best news ever heard. The sermon concludes by urging the listeners to recognize their need for salvation and to trust in Christ.
(Pure Testimony) the Burning Bush
By Zac Poonen2.1K1:00:00PurityEXO 3:2DEU 5:29MAL 1:11MAT 3:11ACT 2:17GAL 2:20REV 22:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the purpose of the conference as a time for teaching and consolidation for those who have already come to the Lord. The focus is on meeting with God and not being entertained. The speaker encourages attendees to prioritize spending time reading and meditating on the Bible, rather than being occupied with other things like gossiping and speaking evil of others. The sermon also highlights the importance of obeying the command in Philippians 2:14 to do all things without murmuring and grumbling, as it can transform one's life and spread happiness. The speaker concludes by referencing God's message to Israel and how He will do something new, accepting offerings from all over the earth without the need for a temple or Levites.
(Church Leadership) 7. the Baptism of the Holy Spirit
By Zac Poonen2.1K1:00:00LUK 24:27LUK 24:32REV 22:17In this sermon, the speaker addresses the current state of Christendom and the need for Christians to offer something superior and better than what is seen on Christian television. He emphasizes the importance of seeking the baptism of the Holy Spirit and fire, using Jesus' words about bringing fire to the earth and rivers of living water flowing from believers. The speaker then delves into the parable of a friend seeking food from his neighbor, highlighting the importance of persistence in seeking the power of the Holy Spirit. He concludes by urging listeners to examine whether their churches are filled with the fire of God, causing hearts to burn within those who attend.
(Through the Bible) Revelation 21-22
By Chuck Smith1.9K40:24Through The BiblePSA 119:105REV 22:6REV 22:12REV 22:14REV 22:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses the disappearance of the sun and the revelation of God's love and mercy towards humanity through Jesus Christ. The sermon traces the rebellion of mankind and its effects, highlighting God's patient and loving dealings with humanity. The speaker emphasizes the importance of being prepared for the return of Jesus and the rewards that will be given based on one's work. The sermon concludes with a reminder to worship God alone and an affirmation of the truth and faithfulness of God's promises.
Whosoever Wills of the Bible
By Rolfe Barnard1.8K49:25Free WillMAT 11:28JHN 7:37ROM 10:9EPH 2:8HEB 11:6REV 22:1REV 22:17In this sermon, the preacher reflects on his time spent with the congregation and expresses gratitude for their friendship and the opportunity to preach the gospel. He mentions a controversial movie and plans to discuss it in the future. The sermon then focuses on the last chapter of the Bible, discussing the tree of life and the water of life that brings healing to the nations. The preacher emphasizes the richness of God's mercy and the importance of faith as a vital act of the soul in accepting Jesus Christ. He encourages the congregation to reach out and take hold of Christ, acknowledging that while faith is a gift from God, it is also an individual's responsibility to exercise it.
The Weeding of the Garden
By C.H. Spurgeon1.8K39:30ISA 55:1MAT 7:24MAT 11:28MAT 15:181TI 1:15REV 3:18REV 22:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that the gospel is available to everyone, regardless of their sins or shortcomings. He encourages sinners to trust in Christ for salvation, assuring them that their souls will be saved and protected by God. The preacher emphasizes the need for a change in one's life, regardless of how moral they may have been. He urges believers to examine themselves and make sure they are truly saved, reminding them that Christ came to save sinners. The sermon concludes with a plea for those who feel unworthy or hopeless to come to Christ and receive his salvation.
(Through the Bible) Genesis 2-3
By Chuck Smith1.7K1:33:11ExpositionalISA 55:1JHN 15:16ACT 15:10ROM 8:19GAL 5:1EPH 1:4REV 22:17In this sermon, the speaker begins by emphasizing the importance of understanding God's love and filling our lives with the fullness of His Spirit. The speaker acknowledges the power of choice and the capacity we have in choosing our eternal destiny. They express gratitude for God's choice to ordain us as disciples and bear fruit that remains. The sermon then transitions to discussing the concept of man's incompleteness and God's decision to create a help-meet for Adam. The speaker highlights Adam's naming of the animals as a demonstration of the mind God gave him.
(Presenting Christ #3) Fullness and Glory
By Dana Congdon1.6K1:26:12Glory Of GodMAT 6:33JHN 3:16ACT 2:42EPH 1:9EPH 1:22HEB 12:2REV 22:17In this sermon, the speaker encourages listeners to pursue the glory of God, even in the midst of tribulation. He emphasizes the importance of taking personal responsibility and owning up to one's own faults. The speaker also highlights the urgency of the times, urging the church to be ready for the Lord's return and to gather people to Him. The sermon concludes with a vision of the church in fullness, inviting others to come and experience the beauty of the Lord.
The People's Christ
By C.H. Spurgeon1.5K49:00PSA 89:19MAT 4:18MAT 20:28MAT 23:8MAT 23:12REV 22:17The sermon transcript describes the exaltation of Christ Jesus after completing his work on earth. It portrays a triumphant scene of angels rejoicing as Jesus approaches the gates of heaven. The angels declare him as the conquering hero and the gates of heaven open to welcome him. The sermon emphasizes the importance of Christ's election and exaltation, highlighting his victory over sin and his ultimate reign as the King of glory.
Repentance - Part 1
By Michael H Yeager1.4K08:00ISA 6:3MAT 6:24ACT 2:36HEB 12:29REV 22:17This sermon emphasizes the call to surrender completely to God, acknowledging His lordship over every aspect of our lives. It warns against the deception of the world and the consequences of rejecting God's holiness. The message urges listeners to repent and turn to God before it's too late, highlighting the need for purity and seeking the kingdom of God above all else.
The Uniqueness of Christianity
By J.B. Nicholson1.4K46:24ChristianityMAT 1:21ROM 1:1ROM 3:20ROM 3:23REV 22:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the message of the Bible, which is about having a personal relationship with God through Jesus. The speaker mentions that the Bible contains historical data and evidence for its truthfulness, unlike any other belief system. The sermon highlights the promise of a savior, the Messiah, who was foretold in the Holy Scriptures. The speaker also discusses the concept of salvation and the need to understand the bad news before receiving the good news of the gospel.
Acts 12 - Building of the Body of Christ
By Stephen Kaung1.3K1:11:06MAT 6:33ACT 13:1EPH 4:11REV 10:1REV 22:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of the church in taking care of children and the weak. He shares a personal story of a dear sister who offered rest to a busy preacher, illustrating the love and support within the church. The speaker then highlights the purpose of preaching the gospel, which is to establish assemblies in every place where the gospel is heard. He emphasizes the building of the body of Christ and the role of apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers as gifts from God to the church for its perfection.
Der Wiederkommende Herr (German)
By Corrie Ten Boom1.2K50:32GermanISA 11:9MAT 6:33MAT 24:61TH 5:10REV 22:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses his book, which is based on his experiences during the war. He emphasizes that despite the darkness and sadness, the grace of the Lord allowed him to share the light of Jesus. The book also mentions a call his sister received to travel the world and spread the Gospel, although she passed away. The speaker highlights that the book contains many questions but only one answer, which can be found in 2 Mark 50. He concludes by urging the audience to understand the signs of the times and prioritize bringing others to Jesus, as that is the most important thing in these days.
The Beloved's Bride
By Randy Jones1.1K44:13BelovedPSA 91:1MAT 3:17JHN 1:29JHN 3:29REV 22:17In this sermon, the preacher discusses the Father's delight in His Son and how this love relationship between the Father and the Son extends to believers. The preacher emphasizes that God manifested Himself in the flesh through Jesus Christ and deposited all His glory and wonders in His Son. The sermon also highlights the importance of being prepared and ready for the bridegroom, Jesus Christ. The preacher uses the story of Rebecca and Isaac to illustrate the willingness and commitment required to follow Jesus, even if it means riding camels.
Whosoever Will
By Jack Hyles1.1K34:51Whosoever WillMAT 6:33JHN 4:14JHN 10:10ROM 3:23ROM 5:8ROM 6:6REV 22:17In this sermon, the preacher discusses three significant spiritual days in his life. The first day is when he accepted Jesus as his Savior. The second day is when he experienced the filling of the Holy Spirit. And the third day is when he learned to will himself to be happy. He emphasizes the importance of finding happiness in things that can be controlled by one's will, such as loving others and speaking well of them. The preacher also extends an invitation for non-believers to come to Christ and be saved.
Anatomy of Betrayal
By William Shishko1.1K57:04Betrayal1KI 18:21PSA 41:1JHN 13:272CO 6:1HEB 6:4REV 22:17In this sermon, Pastor Shishko discusses the theme of outward appearances and how they can be deceiving. He uses examples from the Bible, such as Jesus' interaction with Judas during the Last Supper, to illustrate this point. The sermon emphasizes the importance of discerning the true intentions and character of individuals, even when their outward actions may seem righteous. The sermon also highlights the significance of the Holy Spirit's work in guiding believers to see beyond outward appearances and discern the truth.
Christian Missions to the Communist World International - Pt2
By Richard Wurmbrand1.0K1:14:50MissionsMAT 12:36MAT 17:2ROM 12:15EPH 4:321TH 5:171PE 3:8REV 22:17In this sermon, the speaker shares his experience of being imprisoned for 14 years in communist jails. He talks about the physical hardships they endured, such as heavy chains and beatings. Despite the persecution, the speaker emphasizes the importance of revolutionizing the world with love instead of hatred. He shares a powerful story of a pastor who faced the choice of denying his faith or facing torture, highlighting the unity and interconnectedness of believers as one body in Jesus Christ. The sermon also acknowledges the generosity of the congregation in supporting the families of Christian martyrs.
The Whosoever Wills of the Bible
By Rolfe Barnard98344:56PSA 34:8ISA 55:1MAT 11:28JHN 5:40JHN 6:37JHN 7:37REV 22:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of continuously seeking and committing to Jesus Christ. He compares the concept of a mourner's bench to the idea of having a mourner's bench in one's heart, representing a constant expression of faith and growth in the Christian journey. The preacher emphasizes that every day, believers must recommit themselves to Christ and continually seek His grace. The sermon also highlights the significance of calling on the name of the Lord as a continuous act of faith, which characterizes those who believe in sovereign grace.
(Revelations of the Gospel) 3. a Revelation of My Responsibility and God's Grace
By Jason Robinson9551:10:32The True GospelGrace and ResponsibilityDEU 30:19JER 6:16LUK 13:34ROM 5:2ROM 11:61CO 15:102CO 6:1TIT 2:12HEB 4:16REV 22:17Jason Robinson emphasizes the importance of understanding the complete Gospel amidst the confusion of various interpretations in a post-Christian society. He outlines sixteen essential revelations that form the foundation of the true Gospel, including the responsibility of man to respond to God's grace and the necessity of repentance and faith. Robinson stresses that while God's grace is freely given, individuals must actively choose to accept it and live in accordance with it, highlighting the balance between divine grace and human responsibility. He warns against the dangers of a diluted Gospel that neglects these critical elements, urging believers to seek a genuine relationship with Christ that transforms their lives.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The Spirit and the bride - All the prophets and all the apostles; the Church of God under the Old Testament, and the Church of Christ under the New. Say, Come - Invite men to Jesus, that by him they may be saved and prepared for this kingdom. Let him that heareth - Let all who are privileged with reading and hearing the word of God, join in the general invitation to sinners. Him that is athirst - He who feels his need of salvation, and is longing to drink of the living fountain. And whosoever will - No soul is excluded: Jesus died for every man; every man may be saved; therefore let him who wills, who wishes for salvation, come and take the water of life freely - without money or price!
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Reply of the spiritual Church and John to Christ's words (Rev 22:7, Rev 22:12, Rev 22:16). the Spirit--in the churches and in the prophets. the bride--not here called "wife," as that title applies to her only when the full number constituting the Church shall have been completed. The invitation, "Come," only holds good while the Church is still but an affianced Bride, and not the actually wedded wife. However, "Come" may rather be the prayer of the Spirit in the Church and in believers in reply to Christ's "I come quickly," crying, Even so, "Come" (Rev 22:7, Rev 22:12); Rev 22:20 confirms this view. The whole question of your salvation hinges on this, that you be able to hear with joy Christ's announcement, "I come," and to reply, "Come" [BENGEL]. Come to fully glorify Thy Bride. let him that heareth--that is, let him that heareth the Spirit and Bride saying to the Lord Jesus, "Come," join the Bride as a true believer, become part of her, and so say with her to Jesus, "Come." On "heareth" means "obeyeth"; for until one has obeyed the Gospel call, he cannot pray to Jesus "Come"; so "hear" is used, Rev 1:3; Joh 10:16. Let him that hears and obeys Jesus' voice (Rev 22:16; Rev 1:3) join in praying "Come." Compare Rev 6:1, Rev 6:10; see on Rev 6:1. In the other view, which makes "Come" an invitation to sinners, this clause urges those who themselves hear savingly the invitation to address the same to others, as did Andrew and Philip after they themselves had heard and obeyed Jesus' invitation, "Come." let him that is athirst come--As the Bride, the Church, prays to Jesus, "Come," so she urges all whosoever thirst for participation in the full manifestation of redemption-glory at His coming to us, to COME in the meantime and drink of the living waters, which are the earnest of "the water of life pure as crystal . . . out of the throne of God of the Lamb" (Rev 22:1) in the regenerated heaven and earth. And--so Syriac. But A, B, Vulgate, and Coptic omit "and." whosoever will--that is, is willing and desirous. There is a descending climax; Let him that heareth effectually and savingly Christ's voice, pray individually, as the Bride, the Church, does collectively, "Come, Lord Jesus" (Rev 22:20). Let him who, though not yet having actually heard unto salvation, and so not yet able to join in the prayer, "Lord Jesus, come, "still thirsts for it, come to Christ. Whosoever is even willing, though his desires do not yet amount to positive thirsting, let him take the water of life freely, that is, gratuitously.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And the Spirit and the bride say, come,.... Hearing Christ say that he should come quickly, Rev 22:7 the Spirit and the bride express an earnest wish, and a most affectionate desire after his coming: by "the Spirit" may be meant the Spirit of God in the hearts of his people, who not only convinces them of, and acquaints with the coming of Christ to judgment, and gives them reason to expect it, but fills their souls with the love of his appearance, so that they look and long for it, and hasten in the breathings of their souls after it: and this in like manner he may be said to wish for, and desire it in them, as he is said to cry "Abba", Father, in them, Gal 4:6 and to make intercession for them, Rom 8:26. Hence, some interpreters, by the spirit, understand such as have the Spirit, and are spiritual men; either have spiritual gifts, the gift of prophecy, as John, who in Rev 22:20 expresses an ardent desire that Christ would come quickly; or regenerate men in common, who are born of the Spirit, and bear his name, Joh 3:5 and so by an hendyadis, "the Spirit and the bride" signify one and the same; namely, the spiritual bride of Christ, who is sanctified by the Spirit of God; even all the elect of God, whom Christ loved from all eternity, and who are espoused to him as a chaste virgin; the new Jerusalem, who is as a bride adorned for her husband, and is the bride, the Lamb's wife: these wait for the bridegroom's coming, and most earnestly desire it, as there is good reason for them so to do, since his appearing in itself will be a glorious one, being in his own glory, and his Father's, and the holy angels; and seeing then will be the solemnization of the marriage day between Christ and his church; it will be the saints' redemption day; they will then possess full salvation in soul and body; complete grace will be given to them, and glory will be revealed in them, and they shall be for ever with the Lord. And let him that heareth; what the Spirit and the bride say; or the words of this prophecy; or that has spiritual ears given him, and he hears so as to understand spiritual things, the kingdom of Christ, and the glories of it, let him join the Spirit and bride, and say, come likewise; or express his wishes and desires in the same earnest and affectionate manner, that Christ would hasten his second coming: and let him that is athirst come. These seem to be the words of Christ inviting such who thirst after him, his grace and righteousness, after more knowledge of him, and communion with him, to come unto him, by faith, and partake thereof, Joh 7:37 or who thirst after his second coming, and the glories and delights of the new Jerusalem state, to come into it, and eat of the tree of life, and drink of the river of water of life in it; for the character seems to design such, to speak in the language of the Jews, who use like phrases with this, who hunger, , "and thirst to drink living water" (m), as appears by what follows: and whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely. The water of life designs the free favour and love of God, and the communications and displays of it in the new Jerusalem state, even the comfort, refreshment, and glories of that state: to "take" it is to enjoy it, to partake of it, being led unto it, and that being given to them by Christ the Lamb in the midst of the throne, Rev 7:17 and which is had "freely", without money, and without price, as in Isa 55:1 which seems to be referred to; for the happiness of this state, as well as eternal life, is the free gift of God through Christ; and the persons encouraged to partake of it are "whosoever will"; that is, whoever has a will to divine and spiritual things, wrought in him by God, for no man has such a will of himself, Phi 2:13 though this does not so much regard the character of the person that may take of the water of life, as the free manner in which he may take it: so the Jews are wont to express themselves, when they would signify the liberty that might be used, or the free way in which anything might be taken, particularly when speaking of the law, and the things of it, "whosoever has a mind to take, let him come and take", as it is said, Isa 55:1 "ho, everyone that thirsteth", &c. (n) that is, he is free to take, he is welcome to it; which passage referred to, is thus paraphrased by the Targumist, "ho, , "whosoever "will" learn, let him come and learn, &c. (m) Raziel, fol. 31. 2. (n) Abot R. Nathan, c. 4l. Tzeror Hammor, fol. 79. 4. & 82. 4. Yalkut Simeoni, par. 2. fol. 54. 3. & 100. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
22:17 Come is a repeated invitation and a confession (see 22:20). • the bride: The Lamb’s wife (see 21:9) is the church, the people of God. • The thirsty can drink freely from God’s provision (see 21:6; 22:1; Ps 42:1; Isa 55:1; John 4:10-14).