The Event of Invitation is a theological concept that underscores the moments in Scripture where God extends an invitation to humanity to enter into a relationship with Him, to partake in His promises, or to respond to His call. This theme is woven throughout the biblical narrative, highlighting God's initiative in reaching out to His creation and inviting them into His divine plan.

Old Testament Invitations

In the Old Testament, the concept of invitation is evident in God's interactions with the patriarchs, prophets, and the nation of Israel. One of the earliest examples is found in Genesis 12:1-3, where God invites Abram (later Abraham) to leave his country and family to go to a land that He will show him. This invitation comes with the promise of making Abram a great nation and a blessing to all the families of the earth.

The prophetic books also contain numerous invitations from God to His people. In Isaiah 55:1-3 , God extends an invitation to the thirsty and the needy: "Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you without money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk, without money and without cost. Why spend money on that which is not bread, and your labor on that which does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of foods. Incline your ear and come to Me; listen, so that your soul may live. I will make an everlasting covenant with you—My loving devotion assured to David."

New Testament Invitations

The New Testament continues this theme, with Jesus Christ as the central figure of divine invitation. Jesus' ministry is marked by His call to individuals to follow Him and enter into the Kingdom of God. In Matthew 11:28-30 , Jesus extends a personal invitation: "Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light."

The parables of Jesus often illustrate the concept of invitation, such as the Parable of the Great Banquet in Luke 14:16-24. In this parable, a man prepares a great feast and sends out invitations, symbolizing God's invitation to salvation and fellowship. Despite initial rejections, the invitation is extended to the marginalized and the outcasts, emphasizing the inclusivity of God's call.

The Apostolic Invitation

The apostles continued the theme of invitation in their preaching and teaching. The Apostle Paul, in 2 Corinthians 5:20 , describes the role of believers as ambassadors for Christ, imploring others to be reconciled to God: "Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ: Be reconciled to God."

The Book of Revelation concludes the biblical narrative with a final invitation. Revelation 22:17 states, "The Spirit and the bride say, 'Come!' And 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."

Theological Significance

The Event of Invitation highlights the grace and initiative of God in seeking a relationship with humanity. It underscores the accessibility of God's grace and the open invitation to all who are willing to respond. This theme serves as a reminder of God's desire for fellowship with His creation and the responsibility of believers to extend this invitation to others.