### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **nyní**, represented by `{{G3570}}`, is an emphatic term for **now**. As a prolonged form of the word for "now," its primary function is to add emphasis, often translated as "just now" or simply "now." It appears **21 times** across **21 unique verses**, typically marking a significant, decisive shift in time or status.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3570}}` is frequently used to create a sharp contrast between a past condition and a new, present reality. It highlights the "before and after" of God's redemptive work. For example, believers who were "sometime alienated and enemies" are "**now**" reconciled [[Colossians 1:21]], and those who were "sometime far off" are "**now** in Christ Jesus... made nigh" [[Ephesians 2:13]]. This same structure is used to describe Onesimus, who was "in time past... unprofitable, but **now** profitable" [[Philemon 1:11]]. The word consistently signals a fundamental change brought about by Christ.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help establish the context in which `{{G3570}}` operates:
* `{{G1161}}` **dé** (but, and): This particle is frequently paired with `{{G3570}}` to introduce the contrast. Many key verses begin with "But **now**," using `{{G1161}}` to set up the change that `{{G3570}}` emphasizes, such as the manifestation of God's righteousness apart from the law [[Romans 3:21]].
* `{{G4218}}` **poté** (at some time, ever): This adverb often describes the past state that `{{G3570}}` replaces. It is used to describe believers as being "in **time past**" [[Ephesians 2:2]] or "**sometimes** foolish, disobedient, deceived" [[Titus 3:3]], creating a direct "then versus now" comparison within the same thought [[Ephesians 2:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3570}}` is significant, marking pivotal moments in salvation history and the life of a believer.
* **A New Dispensation:** The word signals a shift from the era of the law to the era of grace. It declares that "**now** the righteousness of God without the law is manifested" [[Romans 3:21]] and that believers are "**now** delivered from the law" [[Romans 7:6]]. It also points to Christ's mediation of a "better covenant" [[Hebrews 8:6]].
* **A New Identity:** `{{G3570}}` is used to define the believer's transformed status. Believers are "**now** being made free from sin, and become servants to God" [[Romans 6:22]]. A mystery hidden for ages is "**now** is made manifest to his saints" [[Colossians 1:26]].
* **A New Command:** This new reality becomes the basis for ethical instruction. Because of their new identity, believers are told, "But **now** ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice" [[Colossians 3:8]]. The new status in Christ demands a new way of living.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3570}}` is far more than a simple reference to the present moment. It is a powerful theological marker that declares a decisive and permanent shift. It contrasts the past reality of sin, law, and alienation with the present reality of grace, freedom, and reconciliation in Christ. The word underscores the finality of Christ's work, which establishes not only a new covenant with God but also a new identity and a new standard of conduct for all who believe.
TRV