### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **proamartánō**, represented by `{{G4258}}`, is defined as to **sin previously**. It is formed from πρό (meaning before) and ἁμαρτάνω (meaning to sin). It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, specifically referring to sins that were committed in the past and have not been resolved through repentance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the context of the Corinthian church, `{{G4258}}` is used by the Apostle Paul to address ongoing issues. He expresses fear that when he comes `{{G2064}}` again, his God `{{G2316}}` will humble `{{G5013}}` him among them, and he will have to bewail `{{G3996}}` many who have **sinned already** `{{G4258}}` but have not repented `{{G3340}}` of their uncleanness `{{G167}}`, fornication `{{G4202}}`, and lasciviousness `{{G766}}` [[2 Corinthians 12:21]]. He reinforces this by writing `{{G1125}}` to those who have **heretofore sinned** `{{G4258}}` that he will not spare `{{G5339}}` them upon his return [[2 Corinthians 13:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of previously committed sin:
* `{{G3340}}` **metanoéō** (to think differently or afterwards... repent): This word stands in direct contrast to the state of those who have sinned already. Paul's grief is for those who **sinned already** `{{G4258}}` and have not **repented** `{{G3340}}` [[2 Corinthians 12:21]].
* `{{G4280}}` **proeréō** (to say already, predict): Paul links his prior warnings to their prior sins. He states, "I **told you before**" `{{G4280}}` when addressing those who have **heretofore sinned** `{{G4258}}`, emphasizing that the issue is not new [[2 Corinthians 13:2]].
* `{{G5339}}` **pheídomai** (to be chary of... spare): This word reveals the consequence of unrepentant past sin. Paul warns those who have **heretofore sinned** `{{G4258}}` that when he comes again, he will not **spare** `{{G5339}}` them [[2 Corinthians 13:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4258}}` is significant, highlighting key principles of accountability and church discipline.
* **Ongoing Accountability:** The term demonstrates that sins committed in the past carry present consequences if they remain unaddressed. Those who had **heretofore sinned** `{{G4258}}` were still subject to apostolic correction [[2 Corinthians 13:2]].
* **The Imperative of Repentance:** The use of `{{G4258}}` is intrinsically tied to a failure to repent `{{G3340}}`. Paul’s concern is not simply that sin occurred, but that it persists without the moral reconsideration that repentance entails [[2 Corinthians 12:21]].
* **Pastoral Correction:** The word is used within the framework of pastoral warning. Paul foretells `{{G4302}}` the consequences for those who have **heretofore sinned** `{{G4258}}`, establishing a clear call to order and holiness within the church community [[2 Corinthians 13:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4258}}` is more than a simple reference to a past mistake. It specifically denotes a sin that has a history and continues to be a present problem due to a lack of repentance. It underscores the biblical principle that past actions have ongoing spiritual relevance and highlights the necessity for both personal repentance and pastoral leadership in addressing lingering sin within the body of believers.
TRV