Lexical Summary proteron: Formerly, previously, before Original Word: πρότερον Strong's Exhaustive Concordance former, beforeNeuter of proteros as adverb (with or without the article); previously -- before, (at the) first, former. see GREEK proteros NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originadverb from proteros, q.v. Topical Lexicon Overview Strong’s Greek 4386, an adverb meaning “formerly” or “earlier,” marks a contrast between a past condition and a present reality. In the New Testament it functions theologically to highlight transformation, remind believers of God’s faithfulness over time, and clarify chronological sequence. Temporal Contrast in Personal Transformation 1. Ephesians 4:22 connects the believer’s “former way of life” with the command to “put off your old self,” underscoring the sharp break between unregenerate conduct and life in Christ. Chronological Sequencing in the Ministry of Jesus John’s Gospel uses the term narratively: Apostolic Travel and Pastoral Planning 2 Corinthians 1:15 and Galatians 4:13 employ the word in regard to Paul’s itinerary and earlier evangelistic efforts. The term secures the historical reliability of apostolic ministry and shows that missionary plans unfolded over time under divine sovereignty. Sacrificial and Covenantal Fulfillment Hebrews weaves πρότερον into its argument: Theological and Pastoral Significance • Memory as Motivation: Recalling what was “formerly” fortifies gratitude and holiness. Ministry Application 1. Discipleship: Encourage believers to journal “before and after” markers of grace. Conclusion Wherever πρότερον appears, Scripture is urging readers to look back only long enough to magnify what God has accomplished and to press forward in faith, obedience, and enduring hope. Forms and Transliterations προτεραν προτέραν προτερον πρότερον proteran protéran proteron próteronLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance John 6:62 Adj-NNSGRK: ἦν τὸ πρότερον KJV: where he was before? INT: he was before John 7:50 Adj-ANS John 9:8 Adj-ANS 2 Corinthians 1:15 Adv Galatians 4:13 Adj-ANS Ephesians 4:22 Adj-AFS 1 Timothy 1:13 Adv Hebrews 4:6 Adv Hebrews 7:27 Adv Hebrews 10:32 Adj-ANS 1 Peter 1:14 Adj-ANS Strong's Greek 4386 |