### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **proépō**, represented by `{{G4277}}`, means **to say already**, **to predict**, or **to forewarn**. It appears 5 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. The term is built from πρό (meaning "before") and ἔπω (meaning "to say"), conveying the act of having told something in the past.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4277}}` is used to establish the authority of a prior statement, whether a divine prophecy or an apostolic warning. It is used to describe how the Holy Ghost **spake before** through the mouth of David, setting the stage for the fulfillment of prophecy concerning Judas [[Acts 1:16]]. Paul uses the term to give weight to his teachings, reminding believers that he had already **told you in time past** about the consequences of sinful acts [[Galatians 5:21]]. The word also functions as a direct **forewarning** against specific transgressions, emphasizing that the Lord is the avenger for such matters [[1 Thessalonians 4:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and meaning of `{{G4277}}`:
* `{{G4302}}` **prolégō** (to say beforehand, i.e. predict, forewarn): This word is used alongside `{{G4277}}` in [[Galatians 5:21]], where Paul issues a present warning while reminding them of a past one, reinforcing the message's urgency.
* `{{G1263}}` **diamartýromai** (to attest or protest earnestly... charge, testify (unto), witness): This term is paired with `{{G4277}}` in [[1 Thessalonians 4:6]]. The combination of having "forewarned" and "testified" adds a layer of solemn, earnest testimony to the prior warning.
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (a spirit... the Holy Spirit): This identifies the divine source behind the predictive speech in [[Acts 1:16]], where the Holy **Ghost** is the one who "spake before" through a human agent.
* `{{G4750}}` **stóma** (the mouth): This word identifies the physical instrument through which the prophecy of `{{G4277}}` was delivered, as when the Holy Ghost spoke through the **mouth** of David [[Acts 1:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4277}}` is significant in establishing authority and accountability.
* **Prophetic Fulfillment:** The term is used to affirm that key events in salvation history were predicted. The statement that scripture "must needs have been fulfilled" which the Holy Ghost **spake before** validates prophecy and God's sovereignty over events [[Acts 1:16]].
* **Apostolic Accountability:** By reminding believers that he had already **forewarned** or **told them in time past**, Paul establishes that his audience is accountable for their actions. The previous warning removes any excuse of ignorance regarding sinful behavior ([[Galatians 5:21]]; [[1 Thessalonians 4:6]]).
* **The Gravity of Warning:** When used in epistles, `{{G4277}}` reinforces the seriousness of moral instruction. It emphasizes that warnings against sin are not new or casual but are consistent and have been delivered previously with apostolic authority.
### Summary
In conclusion, `{{G4277}}` is a term that lends authority and gravity to a statement by anchoring it in the past. Whether referencing a divine prophecy spoken long ago [[Acts 1:16]] or a prior apostolic instruction [[Galatians 5:21]], it functions to hold the listener accountable. The word underscores the principles of divine foreknowledge and the importance of heeding previously delivered warnings, making it a powerful tool for establishing the seriousness of both prophecy and moral teaching.
TRV