### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb προέπω (proépō), Strong's number `{{G4277}}`, is a compound word derived from the preposition πρό (pro), meaning "before" or "in front of," and the verb ἔπω (epō), meaning "to say" or "to speak." Its core meaning is therefore "to say beforehand," "to speak in advance," or "to tell previously."
The semantic range of προέπω (proépō) encompasses several nuances:
* **Prediction or Foretelling:** To declare something that will occur in the future.
* **Forewarning or Admonition:** To give a cautionary statement or warning about impending danger, consequences, or a particular course of action. This often implies a sense of responsibility on the part of the speaker to inform the hearer.
* **Prior Statement or Reiteration:** To state something that has already been communicated or established, emphasizing that the information is not new but has been conveyed before.
The base definition notes a comparison with προερέω (proeréō) `{{G4280}}`, a closely related word often used interchangeably or with a slightly more formal connotation of "to declare beforehand." While both convey prior utterance, προέπω (proépō) frequently carries the specific nuance of a warning or a reminder of past teaching.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb προέπω (proépō) appears in the New Testament, primarily in the Pauline epistles, consistently conveying the sense of a prior declaration or warning.
* **[[2 Corinthians 7:3]]**: "I do not say this to condemn you, for I have said before that you are in our hearts, to die together and to live together." Here, Paul uses προέπω (proépō) to refer to a truth he has *already communicated* to the Corinthian believers. It is a reiteration of his deep affection and commitment to them, emphasizing the established nature of their relationship. The prior statement serves to reassure them of his genuine love, even amidst necessary admonition.
* **[[Galatians 5:21]]**: "...envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God." In this crucial ethical context, προέπω (proépō) functions as a solemn "forewarning." Paul reminds the Galatians of a previous admonition regarding the severe consequences of persistent sinful behavior. The phrase "as I warned you before" (καθὼς καὶ προείπον) underscores the consistency and gravity of his teaching, leaving no room for ignorance regarding the spiritual peril of such practices.
* **[[1 Thessalonians 3:4]]**: "For when we were with you, we kept telling you beforehand that we were to suffer affliction, just as it has come to pass, and as you know." Here, προέπω (proépō) clearly signifies a prediction or foretelling of future suffering. Paul and his companions had *told them in advance* about the persecution they would face. The fulfillment of this prediction served to confirm the truthfulness of their apostolic message and to prepare the Thessalonians for the realities of Christian discipleship in a hostile world.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of προέπω (proépō) is rich with related terms and concepts that illuminate its meaning:
* **προερέω (proeréō) `{{G4280}}`**: As noted, this is a very close synonym, often used interchangeably, emphasizing the act of speaking or declaring something in advance, sometimes with a more formal or authoritative tone.
* **προλέγω (prolegō) `{{G4297}}`**: Another strong synonym, meaning "to tell beforehand," "to predict," or "to forewarn." It shares a very similar range of meaning with προέπω (proépō).
* **προφητεύω (prophēteuō) `{{G4395}}`**: "To prophesy," which involves speaking under divine inspiration, often with a predictive element. While προέπω (proépō) can encompass prediction, προφητεύω (prophēteuō) specifically denotes a divinely inspired utterance.
* **νουθετέω (noutheteō) `{{G3560}}`**: "To admonish," "to warn," or "to instruct." This word highlights the *purpose* of forewarning, which is often to guide or correct behavior.
* **Didacticism**: The broader concept of teaching and instruction, particularly concerning moral and spiritual truths. The "saying beforehand" or "forewarning" inherent in προέπω (proépō) is a crucial aspect of apostolic didacticism.
* **Divine Revelation**: The act of God making Himself and His will known. When apostles forewarn, they are often conveying revealed truth, whether about future events or ethical requirements.
### Theological Significance
The use of προέπω (proépō) in the New Testament carries profound theological implications, particularly concerning divine communication, human responsibility, and pastoral care.
* **Divine Foreknowledge and Warning**: The act of "forewarning" by the apostles reflects God's sovereign foreknowledge and His gracious desire to prepare His people. God does not leave humanity in ignorance regarding crucial spiritual realities, whether it be impending suffering ([[1 Thessalonians 3:4]]) or the serious consequences of sin ([[Galatians 5:21]]). This underscores God's proactive engagement with His creation and His desire for humanity's well-being.
* **Apostolic Authority and Consistency**: Paul's use of προέπω (proépō) emphasizes the consistency and authority of his apostolic teaching. By reminding his readers that these are not new or arbitrary commands but truths he has *already* communicated, he reinforces the stability and reliability of Christian doctrine. This consistency serves as a foundation for the believers' faith and practice.
* **Call to Repentance and Obedience**: The forewarning inherent in προέπω (proépō) functions as a compelling call to repentance and obedience. By knowing the consequences of certain actions in advance, believers are given the opportunity to choose righteousness, avoid divine judgment, and live in accordance with God's will. It highlights human accountability in light of God's clear and repeated communication.
* **Pastoral Love and Care**: In contexts like [[2 Corinthians 7:3]], the "saying before" is an expression of deep pastoral care and commitment. It demonstrates that the apostle's words, even when admonishing, are rooted in genuine affection and a fervent desire for the spiritual flourishing and well-being of the flock. This shows that divine warnings are not punitive but redemptive in their ultimate aim.
### Summary
προέπω (proépō) `{{G4277}}` is a Greek verb meaning "to say beforehand," "to speak in advance," or "to forewarn," stemming from πρό ("before") and ἔπω ("to say"). Its semantic range includes prediction, prior instruction, and, most prominently, cautionary admonition. In the New Testament, particularly in Paul's letters, it consistently refers to a truth or warning previously communicated, highlighting the consistency of apostolic teaching and the importance of heeding divine instruction. Notable occurrences include Paul's reaffirmation of his affection for the Corinthians ([[2 Corinthians 7:3]]), his prior warning to the Galatians about the consequences of sinful behavior ([[Galatians 5:21]]), and the foretelling of affliction to the Thessalonians ([[1 Thessalonians 3:4]]). Theologically, προέπω (proépō) underscores God's gracious foreknowledge, the authoritative and unchanging nature of apostolic revelation, and the essential call to human responsibility in light of clear divine communication. It serves as a powerful reminder that God prepares and guides His people through His word, offering both comfort and challenge for faithful living.
TRV