In the Greek, the word for come
is an imperative. So the word expresses the fervent desire deep in the hearts of Spirit and bride alike that Christ Jesus quickly fulfill his promise to come soon (Revelation 22:12, Revelation 22:20). The promise of the reward, in contrast to living in the midst of the struggles described in the book of Revelation, is so desirable that the call to come
embodies urgency. We can understand that the bride
(= church) stands to gain from Christ’s coming and so longs for that day. Yet it is instructive that the Spirit
(= God) speaks first. God the Spirit longs for the fulfillment of the bride’s happiness and so sets the tone for the bride. Here is a hint of the fundamental truth behind Christ’s coming, i.e., God so loved that he gave his only Son so that sinners may share his glory (John 3:16; John 17:24).
17 The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come.” And let the one who hears say, “Come.” And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who desires take the water of life without price.