The unconditionality of God’s grace is what distinguishes God’s saving Word so sharply from the word of man.
How plainly this comes through in a text: “And the Spirit and the bride say, `Come!’ And let him who hears say, `Come!’ And let him who thirsts come. And whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely” (Revelation 22:17).
What an unmistakable message is conveyed in these words. If anyone is simply thirsty, he can take this water. But wait! Perhaps even that is too strong. So the Spirit adds, “whoever desires” — whoever wants to! — let him take this water without obligation. Let him take it freely.
And what happens to those who appropriate that water? What happens to those who believe this invitation?
A miracle happens to them. They are born again. New life is imparted to them. And in the possession of that life, they possess also God’s Son (I John 5:12). Indeed, He is that life (I John 5:20c), and thus He Himself lives within them (Colossians 1:27).
How was this miracle accomplished in them? By the Word of God that lives and abides forever. Or, as James would say, “Of His own will He brought us forth by the word of truth.”
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