The Greek word tanŷn, represented by G3569, is an adverb meaning "at present" or "(but) now." Appearing 5 times across 5 unique verses, it is derived from "the things now." This term is used to mark a specific, current moment, often creating a pivot point in a discourse or narrative. It signals a shift from what was previously discussed to what is immediately relevant.
In the book of Acts, where all its occurrences are found, G3569 consistently introduces a crucial statement for the present time. Paul uses it to declare a new divine expectation, stating that after times of ignorance G52 that God G2316 winked at G5237, "now commandeth all men every where to repent" Acts 17:30. Gamaliel uses it to offer his definitive counsel G1012 to the council: "And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men" Acts 5:38. The early believers use it in prayer to bring their immediate peril before the Lord, saying, "And now, Lord, behold their threatenings" Acts 4:29. Paul also uses it to give a final charge to the Ephesian elders Acts 20:32 and to exhort G3867 his shipmates to be of good cheer G2114 during a storm Acts 27:22.
Several related words clarify the actions that G3569 introduces:
- G3853 parangéllō (commandeth): This word means to transmit a message or enjoin. It is used directly after G3569 to show that the present moment brings a new divine command G3853 for all men to repent Acts 17:30.
- G3867 parainéō (exhort): Meaning to advise or recommend a course of action. Paul uses this to "exhort G3867 you to be of good cheer" in the immediate crisis, highlighting the word's function to introduce encouragement Acts 27:22.
- G3908 paratíthēmi (commend): This term means to deposit as a trust. Paul uses it after G3569 to "commend G3908 you to God" Acts 20:32, marking a present act of entrusting others to divine care.
- G3340 metanoéō (repent): Defined as to think differently or reconsider, this is the specific action God now commands through Paul's preaching, showing that G3569 can introduce a call for fundamental change Acts 17:30.
The use of G3569 carries significant weight, often marking a pivotal moment.
- A Call to Immediate Action: The word emphasizes the urgency of the present. It is not a general "sometime," but a specific "now" that demands a response, as when God G2316 commandeth G3853 all men to repent G3340 Acts 17:30.
- A Shift in Divine Dealing: In Acts, it marks a transition from a past time of God's forbearance with ignorance G52 to a present, universal call for repentance, indicating a new phase in God's redemptive work Acts 17:30.
- A Point of Decision: The term is used to introduce critical advice or a plea that requires a decision. This is seen when Gamaliel presents his counsel G1012 to the assembly Acts 5:38 and when the believers pray for boldness G3954 in the face of threats Acts 4:29.
- An Expression of Present Trust: G3569 frames moments of conscious reliance on God. Paul commends G3908 the brethren to God Acts 20:32, and the disciples present their current troubles to the Lord G2962 Acts 4:29, both as acts of faith in the present.
In summary, tanŷn G3569 is a focused adverb that points to "the things now," emphasizing the immediate present. Though used only 5 times, its placement in the book of Acts is consistently strategic. It serves as a hinge, swinging the narrative from a past context to a present command, exhortation, or declaration of faith. From God's new command to repent Acts 17:30 to Paul's encouragement in a storm Acts 27:22, G3569 highlights that the present moment is the decisive time for action and trust.
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