Próteros, Strong’s Greek 4387, denotes what is earlier, previous, or former. Although the specific form catalogued under this number does not appear in the extant New Testament text, the idea surfaces repeatedly through its cognates and synonymous expressions. Scripture uses the concept to contrast past and present, highlight God’s sovereign control of history, and summon believers to leave behind an old way of life.

Septuagint Background

In the Greek Old Testament próteros frequently renders the Hebrew רִאשׁוֹן (rishon, “former”).
• Isaiah 41:22 – “Let them declare the former things”. The LORD exposes the impotence of idols by challenging them to recount past events they supposedly foretold.
• Isaiah 43:18 – “Do not remember the former things; do not ponder the things of old”. God invites Israel to expect an even greater act of redemption.
• Ecclesiastes 1:11 – “There is no remembrance of former things”. The fleeting nature of human endeavor contrasts with God’s enduring work.

These uses frame the former-versus-future tension that undergirds prophetic hope and covenant progression.

New Testament Parallels

While the adjective form indexed as 4387 is absent, the cognate adverb πρότερον (Strong’s 4386) and related phrases carry the same thrust.
• Ephesians 4:22 calls believers to “put off your former way of life”.
• Hebrews 10:32 reminds readers of “the former days” when their faith first endured hardship.
• 1 Peter 1:14 warns against reverting to “the passions of your former ignorance”.

Across these texts the Spirit marks a decisive break between what was and what is now true in Christ (see also Romans 6:4; 2 Corinthians 5:17).

Theological Significance

1. Divine Sovereignty. By recalling “former things,” Scripture asserts a God who controls the timeline from beginning to end (Isaiah 46:9-10).
2. Covenant Continuity and Fulfillment. Earlier acts of God foreshadow the climactic redemption accomplished by Jesus (Jeremiah 31:31; Luke 22:20).
3. Sanctification. Believers are exhorted to abandon former patterns and embrace the new life secured through the gospel (Philippians 3:13-14).

Christological Focus

Jesus stands at the hinge of history, turning “the former regulation” into a better hope (Hebrews 7:18-19). Remembering past deliverances magnifies His fulfillment of every promise (2 Corinthians 1:20).

Pastoral and Ministry Application

• Preaching: Rehearse God’s previous faithfulness before unveiling present exhortations, anchoring obedience in grace.
• Counseling: Reframe painful memories through redemption, transforming former bondage into testimony (Mark 5:19).
• Worship: Employ songs and prayers that recall past mercies, fostering trust for future grace (Psalms 77:11).

Key Passages for Study

Isaiah 41:22; Isaiah 43:18; Ecclesiastes 1:11; Ephesians 4:22; Hebrews 10:32; 1 Peter 1:14; Philippians 3:13-14; Revelation 21:4 (“the former things have passed away”).