### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adverb οὔπω (oúpō, `{{G3768}}`) is a compound word derived from the negative particle οὐ (ou, `{{G3756}}`, "not") and the temporal particle πω (pō, "yet," "up to this point," "hitherto"). Its core meaning is precisely "not yet," signifying an action or state that has not occurred or been realized up to the moment of speaking, but with the implication that it may or will occur in the future. It functions as a temporal negation, distinguishing it from a simple "not" (οὐ) or a prohibitive "not" (μή, `{{G3361}}`). The "yet" component introduces a crucial temporal dimension, pointing to an anticipated or deferred event.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The usage of οὔπω in the New Testament often carries significant theological weight, particularly in relation to divine timing and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan.
* **Divine Timing in Jesus' Ministry:** In [[John 2:4]], Jesus responds to His mother at the wedding in Cana, "My hour has not yet come." This is a profound statement regarding the precise, divinely appointed moment for His public manifestation of glory through signs and, ultimately, His crucifixion and resurrection. It underscores Jesus' submission to the Father's perfect timing rather than human expectation or urgency. Similarly, in [[John 7:6]], Jesus tells His brothers, "My time has not yet come, but your time is always ready," again emphasizing a specific, predetermined divine timetable for His actions.
* **The Spirit's Outpouring:** [[John 7:39]] states, "For the Spirit had not yet been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified." Here, οὔπω highlights the necessary sequence in God's plan: the full outpouring of the Holy Spirit (as seen at Pentecost) was contingent upon Jesus' glorification through His death, resurrection, and ascension. It points to a pivotal moment in redemptive history yet to occur.
* **Progressive Revelation:** In [[John 16:12]], Jesus tells His disciples, "I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them *now* (οὔπω)." This use of οὔπω indicates a future revelation of truth, implying that the disciples were not yet spiritually mature or prepared to receive certain profound teachings. It speaks to the progressive nature of divine revelation, unveiled as the recipients are able to comprehend.
* **God's Sovereign Choice:** [[Romans 9:11]] uses οὔπω in the context of Jacob and Esau: "though they were *not yet* born and had done nothing good or bad—in order that God’s purpose of election might stand, not because of works but because of his call." This passage powerfully illustrates God's sovereign choice preceding human action, emphasizing that divine election is independent of human merit or demerit.
* **Eschatological Hope:** [[1 John 3:2]] declares, "Beloved, *now* we are children of God, and it has *not yet* been revealed what we will be, but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is." This verse beautifully captures the tension of the "already and not yet" in Christian eschatology. Believers are *already* children of God, but their ultimate glorification and transformation into Christ's likeness is *not yet* fully realized. It points to a future hope and consummation.
### Related Words & Concepts
οὔπω stands in close relation to several other Greek words and theological concepts:
* **Antonyms/Contrasts:**
* ἤδη (ēdē, `{{G2235}}`): "already," "by now." This adverb is the direct temporal opposite of οὔπω, signifying an event or state that has already occurred or is presently true. The interplay between ἤδη and οὔπω defines the "already and not yet" theological framework.
* νῦν (nyn, `{{G3568}}`): "now," "at present." While οὔπω indicates what is absent *at present*, νῦν signifies what is present *at this very moment*.
* **Related Negatives:**
* οὐ (ou, `{{G3756}}`): The fundamental negative particle, signifying a factual negation. οὔπω builds upon οὐ by adding a temporal dimension.
* μή (mē, `{{G3361}}`): A negative particle used in prohibitions, conditional clauses, and expressions of doubt or possibility. Unlike οὔπω, μή does not inherently carry a temporal "yet."
* **Theological Concepts:**
* **Divine Timing (καιρός, `{{G2540}}`; χρόνος, `{{G5550}}`):** οὔπω frequently highlights God's strategic and perfect timing for the unfolding of His plan, distinguishing between chronological time (χρόνος) and opportune, appointed time (καιρός).
* **Fulfillment (πληρόω, `{{G4137}}`):** The "not yet" anticipates a future "fulfillment" when God's promises and plans will be brought to completion.
* **Progressive Revelation:** The idea that God reveals truth incrementally, as humanity is prepared to receive it.
* **Eschatology:** The doctrine of last things, particularly the tension between the inaugurated Kingdom of God and its future consummation.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of οὔπω is profound, shaping our understanding of God's sovereignty, the nature of His redemptive plan, and the Christian's posture of hope.
1. **Divine Sovereignty and Perfect Timing:** οὔπω powerfully underscores that God operates according to His own perfect timetable, not human expectations or demands. Events in redemptive history, particularly those related to Jesus' ministry and the Spirit's work, unfold precisely when God decrees, demonstrating His absolute control and wisdom. This calls believers to trust in God's timing, even when circumstances seem delayed.
2. **The "Already and Not Yet" of the Kingdom of God:** This phrase is perhaps the most significant theological implication of οὔπω. The Kingdom of God has been inaugurated through Christ's first coming, His life, death, and resurrection (ἤδη - "already"). However, its full consummation, the complete eradication of sin and evil, and the full glorification of believers, is οὔπω - "not yet." Believers live in the tension of this present reality, experiencing the benefits of the Kingdom while eagerly awaiting its complete manifestation. This applies to salvation (justification *already*, glorification *not yet*), the Spirit's full work, and the ultimate defeat of all evil.
3. **Hope and Anticipation:** The "not yet" is not a statement of absence or despair, but of deferred presence and future promise. It instills in believers a profound sense of hope and eager anticipation for the future blessings, revelations, and the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. It reminds us that our faith looks forward to a glorious future that is guaranteed by God's faithfulness.
4. **Progressive Nature of Revelation and Sanctification:** οὔπω can also speak to the ongoing process of spiritual growth and understanding. Just as the disciples were not yet ready for certain truths, believers continue to grow in their comprehension of God's Word and their conformity to Christ's image. There is always more to learn and more to become, a "not yet" in our sanctification and knowledge.
### Summary
οὔπω (oúpō, `{{G3768}}`) is a precise Greek adverb meaning "not yet." Its usage in the New Testament is highly significant, serving to delineate the temporal unfolding of God's sovereign plan. It highlights the perfect timing of divine events, particularly in the ministry of Jesus and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Crucially, οὔπω undergirds the foundational theological concept of the "already and not yet" concerning the Kingdom of God, where believers experience the inaugurated blessings of God's reign while eagerly anticipating its full consummation. This word fosters a robust hope, reminding us that God is faithful to bring His promises to their ultimate and glorious fulfillment.
TRV