God's Ongoing Invitation: Embrace, Receive, Share

 

Summary

Today’s reflection centers on the profound invitation God extends to each of us, an invitation that is both deeply personal and universally offered. Drawing from the closing words of Revelation, the Spirit and the Bride call out, “Come,” echoing the heart of God who continually invites, draws, and woos us into relationship with Him. This invitation is not just a distant or future hope, but a present reality, rooted in the ongoing work of Jesus Christ, who even now intercedes for us at the right hand of the Father. The Ascension is not merely a historical event; it is the assurance that Christ is actively advocating for us, and that we are welcomed to approach the throne of grace with confidence.

The invitation unfolds in three distinct ways. First, we are invited to the Word of God—a trustworthy and true foundation in a world filled with uncertainty and misinformation. The Scriptures are not to be sealed up or neglected, especially in seasons of distraction or leisure. Instead, we are encouraged to immerse ourselves in God’s Word, allowing it to shape and anchor our lives.

Second, we are invited to the heart of the gospel, to receive the free gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. The imagery of washing our robes in the blood of the Lamb speaks to a cleansing that is not earned but received by faith. The gospel’s most radical claim is that eternal life is offered without price; it cannot be bought or achieved, only accepted with humility and gratitude.

Third, we are invited to a relationship with Jesus Himself—the fulfillment of all the hopes and promises of God. He is the root and descendant of David, the bright morning star, the one who meets every need and longing of the human heart. This relationship is not only for our own benefit but is meant to be shared. Having heard the invitation, we are now called to extend it to others, to invite friends, neighbors, and even strangers into the life-giving reality of Christ.

Finally, there is an exhortation: “Come, Lord Jesus.” This is the prayer of a people who know both the beauty and the brokenness of the world, who long for Christ’s return and the fulfillment of all things. The invitation requires a response—an RSVP of the heart. Will we draw near, open the Word, receive the gospel, and invite others to do the same?

Key Takeaways

- God’s Invitation Is Ongoing and Present
God’s invitation is not a one-time event but a continual call to relationship. The Spirit and the Bride say “Come” not just for the future, but for today, reminding us that God is always seeking us, always drawing us closer, and always desiring our presence with Him. This present-tense invitation challenges us to respond daily, not just in moments of crisis or celebration. [22:52]

- The Word of God Is Trustworthy Amid Uncertainty
In a world where truth is often questioned and information is easily manipulated, the Scriptures stand as a reliable and unchanging foundation. We are urged not to seal up or neglect the Word, but to keep it before us, especially in seasons when distractions abound. Immersing ourselves in God’s Word is both a safeguard and a source of life, anchoring us in what is trustworthy and true. [26:11]

- The Gospel’s Offense Is Its Freeness
The most challenging aspect of the gospel is that it cannot be earned or purchased; it is a gift freely given. This runs counter to our instincts to strive, achieve, or prove our worth. Accepting the water of life “without price” requires humility and a willingness to receive what only Christ can provide, reminding us that grace is both radical and liberating. [29:51]

- Jesus Fulfills Every Longing and Promise
Jesus is not just a historical figure or a distant Savior; He is the fulfillment of every hope, promise, and longing of God’s people. As the root and descendant of David, the bright morning star, He embodies the fullness of God’s plan and the answer to our deepest needs. Relationship with Him is the heart of our faith, and it is in knowing Him that we find true life. [31:15]

- The Invitation Is Meant to Be Shared
Having received the invitation, we are entrusted with the responsibility to extend it to others. The call to “let the one who hears say, ‘Come’” is a reminder that our faith is not private or passive. God has given us a powerful voice to invite others into His story, and even a simple invitation can be the means by which someone encounters Christ. [32:24]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[19:16] - Gospel Reading: The Ascension
[20:15] - Opening Prayer and Introduction
[20:34] - The Power of Invitation: A Personal Story
[22:14] - Revelation’s Final Invitation and Exhortation
[23:44] - The Meaning of Ascension
[25:24] - Threefold Invitation in Revelation
[25:55] - Invitation to the Word of God
[28:01] - Invitation to the Gospel
[30:43] - Invitation to Relationship with Jesus
[32:05] - Our Call to Invite Others
[33:41] - The Exhortation: “Come, Lord Jesus”
[35:07] - Responding to God’s Invitation
[36:11] - Confession of Faith: The Creed
[37:46] - Prayers and Intercessions
[43:43] - Welcome and Announcements
[46:48] - Closing and Offering

Study Guide

Small Group Bible Study Guide: God’s Ongoing Invitation
*(Based on the sermon summary and transcript above)*

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### Bible Reading

Primary Text:
Revelation 22:6-21
*(Key verses: 16-17, 20)*

Supporting Passages:
- Luke 24:44-53 *(The Ascension of Jesus)*
- Isaiah 55:1-3 *(Invitation to receive freely from God)*

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### Observation Questions

1. In Revelation 22:17, who is issuing the invitation to “Come,” and who is it for?
2. According to the sermon, what are the three main things we are invited to in Revelation 22? [[25:24]]
3. What does Jesus do after his ascension, according to Luke 24 and the sermon? [[24:32]]
4. What is the significance of the phrase “without price” in Revelation 22:17 and Isaiah 55:1? [[29:51]]

---

### Interpretation Questions

1. The sermon says God’s invitation is ongoing and present, not just for the future. What does it mean for believers to respond to God’s invitation daily, not just in big moments? [[22:52]]
2. Why might it be challenging for people to accept the gospel as a free gift, rather than something to be earned? [[29:51]]
3. The preacher describes Jesus as the “root and descendant of David, the bright morning star.” What does this say about who Jesus is and what he fulfills? [[31:15]]
4. The invitation is not just for us to receive, but also to share. Why do you think so few Christians actually invite others, even though many people say they would come if invited? [[32:54]]

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### Application Questions

1. The sermon challenges us to keep God’s Word before us, especially in seasons of distraction or leisure. What are some specific distractions in your life right now that keep you from reading or reflecting on Scripture? What is one step you can take this week to make space for God’s Word? [[27:07]]
2. The gospel is described as a gift that cannot be earned or bought. Are there ways you find yourself trying to “earn” God’s love or approval? How can you remind yourself to receive grace freely? [[29:51]]
3. Jesus is said to fulfill every longing and promise. Is there a particular longing or need in your life right now that you need to bring to Jesus? What would it look like to trust Him with it? [[31:15]]
4. The preacher shared that 82% of people would come to church if invited by a friend, but only 2% of Christians actually invite someone. Who is one person you could invite to church or a spiritual conversation this month? What holds you back, and how can you overcome that? [[32:54]]
5. The invitation in Revelation ends with “Come, Lord Jesus.” How does praying this prayer shape your perspective on the brokenness and beauty of the world? Is there a situation in your life where you need to pray, “Come, Lord Jesus”? [[33:41]]
6. The sermon asks, “Will you open the Word of God in a new way? Will you join a Bible study? Will you receive Christ for the first time? Will you draw near to Jesus Christ, the bright morning star?” Which of these invitations is most relevant to you right now, and what is your next step? [[35:07]]
7. The invitation requires a response—an RSVP of the heart. What does it look like for you to say “yes” to God’s invitation today? [[34:49]]

---

Closing Prayer:
Invite the group to pray, “Come, Lord Jesus,” and to ask for courage to respond to God’s invitation and to extend it to others.

Devotional

Day 1: The Invitation to Come—God’s Open Call to All
God is a God of invitation, always drawing people to Himself and offering a place in His presence. The call to “come” is not just for a select few, but for all who are thirsty, weary, or searching for meaning. This invitation is repeated throughout Scripture and culminates in the final chapter of Revelation, where the Spirit and the Bride extend the call to everyone who hears. God’s heart is to welcome, to restore, and to give life freely to all who respond. Today, you are invited to draw near, to accept the open arms of your Savior, and to find your place in His story. [22:33]

Revelation 22:17 (ESV)
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.

Reflection: Where in your life do you sense God inviting you to draw closer to Him today, and how will you respond to that invitation?


Day 2: The Trustworthiness of God’s Word
In a world filled with uncertainty, misinformation, and shifting values, the Word of God stands as a trustworthy and true foundation. The Scriptures are not to be sealed up or neglected, but opened, read, and cherished as the reliable guide for life and faith. God’s Word offers clarity, hope, and direction when everything else feels unstable. This summer, you are encouraged to keep the Bible before you, to let its truth shape your days, and to find in it the unchanging promises of God. [25:55]

Revelation 22:6,10 (ESV)
And he said to me, “These words are trustworthy and true. And the Lord, the God of the spirits of the prophets, has sent his angel to show his servants what must soon take place.” … And he said to me, “Do not seal up the words of the prophecy of this book, for the time is near.”

Reflection: What is one practical way you can keep God’s Word at the center of your daily routine this week?


Day 3: The Free Gift of the Gospel
The heart of the Christian message is the gospel—the good news that eternal life is offered freely through Jesus Christ. This gift cannot be earned or bought; it is given without price to all who will receive it. The cleansing and new identity found in Christ are not based on our efforts, but on His finished work on the cross. To “wash your robes” is to trust in Jesus, to accept His grace, and to enter into the fullness of life He promises. Let your heart rest in the assurance that you are welcomed, forgiven, and made new by His love. [29:51]

Revelation 22:14,17 (ESV)
Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they may have the right to the tree of life and that they may enter the city by the gates. … 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.

Reflection: Is there any part of you that still tries to earn God’s love or acceptance? How can you rest in the free gift of grace today?


Day 4: The Call to Invite Others
The invitation of God is not only for us to receive, but also to extend to others. As those who have heard and experienced the goodness of Christ, we are called to invite friends, neighbors, and even strangers to encounter Jesus for themselves. There is great power in a simple invitation—many are waiting for someone to reach out and welcome them into the community of faith. You have a voice and a story that God can use to draw others closer to Him. Don’t underestimate the impact of your invitation; it could change a life forever. [32:24]

Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV)
Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.

Reflection: Who is one person you can invite to church, a Bible study, or a conversation about faith this week, and how will you reach out to them?


Day 5: Longing for Christ’s Return—“Come, Lord Jesus”
The Christian life is lived in hopeful anticipation of Christ’s return. In the midst of suffering, brokenness, and longing for things to be made right, the prayer “Come, Lord Jesus” becomes both a comfort and a call to action. This longing shapes our prayers, our priorities, and our perspective on the world. As we wait for Jesus to come again, we are invited to live faithfully, to pray expectantly, and to trust that He will fulfill His promise to make all things new. Let your heart echo the ancient prayer, and let it shape your hope today. [34:00]

Revelation 22:20 (ESV)
He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!

Reflection: In what area of your life or in the world do you most long for Jesus to come and make things new, and how can you bring that longing to Him in prayer today?

Quotes

If you were here last week, you know why I feel just a little nervous right now. It's so great that the lights are on and it's bright outside. I'm not the type who goes to debutant balls. I didn't grow up in that world. But when I went to summer camp, I met some people who were in that world and I got an invitation to a debutant ball in the year my the Thanksgiving of my freshman year of college. [00:20:17]
And I remember opening the invitation because it was the first really fancy invitation I'd ever received. It had my whole long name on the outside. And when you open it up, you know immediately that this is important because of the weight of the card stock, the embossing, the fancy language people are being presented into society. All of these things a part of this grand invitation. [00:20:49]
And today as we close the Bible and go to the very last page, the very last chapter, the very last words, we find these two things, an invitation and an exhortation. The spirit and the bride say, "Come." And let the one who hears say, "Come." And he who is thirsty come. That invitation is issued in verse 17 of chapter 22 of the book of Revelation. [00:22:18]
It's an amazing invitation. It reminds us that our God is a God of invitations that he's constantly asking, constantly drawing, constantly wooing, and he wants us to be with him. It reminds us that as we open the Gospels in Matthew, Jesus spoke in much the same way, didn't he? Come unto me all of you who are tired and heavy laden and I will give you rest. [00:22:52]
He said to those who were asking where is he staying? He said where are you staying? He said come and see. And to those that he was that were interested in following him. He said come follow me. He's an inviting God. And in this invitation, we learn a lot about who we are called to be and what we are invited to. [00:23:14]
The ascension is about the present work of Jesus. That right now you have a great high priest seated at the right hand of the father who is daily making intercession for you. He's praying for you. He's advocating for you and he is the one through whom the writer of Hebrews says approach him, approach the throne of grace with confidence. [00:24:32]
So this ascension is about Jesus present work and this is the intersection of the invitation because the invitation for us in the church is a present invitation. It's about our lives here and now. As John wrote to those seven churches, so too we are hearing these words as the church at St. Helenas. We are hearing these words as a present invitation. [00:24:59]
The first thing we see is that the invitation to come is an invitation to the word of God. It's an invitation to the word of God. In verse six, the angel says to John, "These words are trustworthy and true." And then in verse 10, he said to me, "Do not seal up the words of the prophecy of this book, for the time is near." [00:25:46]
Over and over again, we're told that the words here in the book of Revelation and the words of scripture are true. They're trustworthy. We shouldn't add from or subtract from. We should stand on the word of God. And all of this to you and me. Who doesn't need a trustworthy word? Who doesn't need something that is true? [00:26:09]
We live in the age of of false advertising and fake news and factchecking. All of these things eroding our confidence in the things we hear. And yet we hear that this Bible, this word of God is trustworthy and true. Don't seal it up. What a great word for us in this summer season. [00:26:33]
This is a good a good uh exhortation for us, a good invitation to keep the Bible before us, to not lose sight of the word of God during this summer season. You'll be hearing about in the days ahead an opportunity to read uh the whole book of Psalms together as a congregation. We'll do that over 60 days beginning on June the 16th. [00:27:07]
So, one invitation is before us, but there are many ways to study and learn God's word. This is a trustworthy and true word. So the spirit, the third person of the trinity, holy spirit and the bride, the church say to you and me, come, come to the word of God. [00:27:40]
Second, there's an invitation to the gospel to receive the gospel to come to the very heart of Jesus message on this earth. I I love how it's laid out here in verse 14. Look at it with me. It says, "Blessed are those who wash their robes." Now, this doesn't mean blessed are the people who do the laundry, although you are blessed, but this is about those who've put their identity and trust in Jesus Christ. [00:28:01]
To eat of the tree of life was to know fully eternal life in Jesus Christ. The tree of life is a symbol of that eternal life offered to us. And then he says that they may enter the city by the gates. That means that their destiny, their horizon is secure because they know they will enter the new Jerusalem because of Jesus Christ. [00:28:54]
There's a invitation in this passage to the gospel to know the good news of Jesus Christ. If you look at verse 15, it begins with these words, outside are the dogs and the sorcerers. And it goes on to list the and contrast those who've not received Christ, whose lives have not been changed by the work of the spirit. [00:29:24]
The most offensive thing about the gospel is you can't pay for it. You can't earn it. It's a free gift. And that's what John is recounting when he says, "Let the one who desires take the water of life without price." That invitation is found in Isaiah 55. It's an invitation to know the free gift of God in Jesus Christ. [00:29:57]
He is the bright morning star, the one who rises in the east and shows us the truth of the gospel. So, we're invited to come. The spirit and the bride say come to the word of God to the message of the word which is the gospel and to the heart of the gospel which is Jesus and a relationship with him. [00:31:41]

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