προλέγω

I forewarn

Definition

The verb προλέγω means 'to say beforehand' or 'to forewarn.' It carries the sense of speaking in advance about something that will happen, often with a cautionary or predictive purpose. In 2 Corinthians 13:2 and Galatians 5:21, it is used to issue a solemn, advance warning about future judgment or consequences for sin. In 1 Thessalonians 3:4, it describes Paul plainly telling the Thessalonians in advance about the sufferings they would face, emphasizing straightforward communication of future events.

Biblical Usage

This word is used three times in the New Testament, always by the Apostle Paul. It appears in contexts of apostolic authority and pastoral care, where Paul is either warning churches about spiritual dangers or preparing them for hardship. In 2 Corinthians 13:2 and Galatians 5:21, it functions as a stern forewarning about discipline and the consequences of sinful behavior. In 1 Thessalonians 3:4, it describes a more pastoral, preparatory communication about impending affliction.

Etymology

The word is a compound of πρό (pro), meaning 'before' or 'in front of,' and λέγω (legō), a common verb meaning 'to say' or 'to speak.' Thus, its literal meaning is 'to say before.' It belongs to a family of Greek words built on the root legō, which relates to speaking, gathering, or reasoning.

Semantic Range

This word highlights the themes of divine foreknowledge and prophetic communication within apostolic ministry. Paul's use of προλέγω underscores his role as an authoritative messenger who, under God's inspiration, declares future realities—both warnings of judgment and assurances of God's sovereignty in suffering. Understanding this term enriches reading by emphasizing that biblical warnings are not afterthoughts but are given beforehand out of God's mercy and truthfulness, calling for a responsive and prepared faith.

In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of 'foretelling' was associated with oracles and seers. Paul's use of this term, however, is stripped of pagan divination. Instead, it reflects the Jewish and Christian prophetic tradition where a messenger of God speaks a forthright message about the future based on God's revealed character and purposes, often to elicit repentance or steadfastness.

προφητεύω (prophēteuō, G4395) — focuses on inspired proclamation or prediction, often with a broader revelatory scope. προαγορεύω (proagoreuō, G4277) — also means to foretell or declare beforehand, used less frequently and sometimes in more formal or public declarations.

Word Details

Scripture References