Strong’s G4387: A comparative adjective derived from πρό (before), meaning former, earlier, or previous. Used particularly in theological contexts to contrast believers’ pre-conversion state with their new life in Christ, emphasizing the transformative power of the gospel.

U- Unveiling the Word

Πρότερος represents the comparative form of “before,” describing what was earlier or former. Derived from πρό (before), it specifically designates a previous state or condition. In its New Testament usage, particularly in Ephesians 4:22, it describes the “former” way of life before Christ, highlighting the contrast between old and new life in Christ. The early church understood this term as crucial in describing conversion and spiritual transformation. Today, it continues to emphasize the radical nature of Christian conversion and the need to put off the old self.

N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πρότερος, proteros, /PRO-te-ros/
• Detailed pronunciation: pro (as in ‘pro’) + te (as in ‘ten’) + ros (as in ‘rose’)
• Part of Speech: Adjective

Etymology:

• πρό (pro) – root meaning “before”
• -τερος (-teros) – comparative suffix
  The combination creates a comparative meaning “former” or “earlier”

D – Defining Meanings

• Former
• Earlier
• Previous

For compound words:
While not strictly compound, the word combines the root πρό with comparative suffix -τερος to create a more precise temporal reference.

Translation Options:

1. “Former” – Best captures the state-oriented meaning
2. “Earlier” – Emphasizes temporal sequence
3. “Previous” – Highlights prior condition

E – Exploring Similar Words

• παλαιός (palaios, /pa-lai-OS/) – Old
  See G3820
• ἀρχαῖος (archaios, /ar-KHAI-os/) – Ancient, original
  See G744
• πρῶτος (prōtos, /PRŌ-tos/) – First
  See G4413

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As an adjective, πρότερος exhibits these morphological features:

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Gender: Masculine, Feminine, Neuter
• Degree: Comparative

Example forms:

• Masculine nominative singular: πρότερος
• Feminine nominative singular: προτέρα
• Neuter nominative singular: πρότερον

Related words in other parts of speech:

• πρότερον (proteron) – adverb meaning “formerly”

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its use in describing pre-conversion life. Thayer’s notes its comparative force. LSJ provides examples from secular literature. Vine’s highlights its theological significance. Strong’s emphasizes its temporal aspect. Moulton and Milligan cite examples from personal letters describing life changes.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First Appearance:
“To put off your [πρότερος] old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires,” Ephesians 4:22

Additional References:
1 Peter 1:14

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Πρότερος powerfully captures the contrast between life before and after Christ. The good news of King Jesus creates a clear demarcation between our former way of life and our new identity in Christ. It reminds us that conversion involves real transformation, not mere modification.

D – Did You Know?

1. This word was commonly used in legal documents describing prior conditions
2. Early Christian baptismal liturgies used it to describe pre-conversion life
3. It appears in ancient personal letters describing life-changing events

Strong’s G4387: A comparative adjective derived from πρό (before), meaning former, earlier, or previous. Used particularly in theological contexts to contrast believers’ pre-conversion state with their new life in Christ, emphasizing the transformative power of the gospel.

Part of speech: Adjective

Tags: former, previous, earlier, conversion, transformation, old self, past life, change, temporal, contrast​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​