Brief Overview of προαμαρτάνω (Strong’s G4258: proamartanō)

Strong’s G4258: A compound verb meaning “to sin previously” or “to sin before,” combining πρό (before) with ἁμαρτάνω (to sin). Used in pastoral contexts addressing persistent sin, particularly in Paul’s dealings with the Corinthian church, emphasizing the serious nature of ongoing, unrepentant sin.

U- Unveiling the Word

προαμαρτάνω combines temporal priority with the concept of sin, specifically addressing patterns of previous sinful behavior. In its New Testament appearances in 2 Corinthians 12:21 and 2 Corinthians 13:2, Paul uses it to address those who have continued in sin despite previous warnings. The early church employed this term in discussions of church discipline and repentance. Today, it remains relevant in understanding patterns of sin and the need for genuine repentance.

N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: προαμαρτάνω, proamartanō, pro-am-ar-TAN-o
• Detailed Pronunciation: pro (as in ‘protein’) + am + ar + TAN (stressed) + o (as in ‘go’)
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• Prefix: πρό- (pro-) meaning “before”
• Root: ἁμαρτάνω (hamartanō) meaning “to sin”
• The combination creates “to sin previously”

D – Defining Meanings

• To sin previously
• To sin before
• To continue in past sin
• To persist in sinful behavior

For compound words:
πρό- adds temporal aspect to ἁμαρτάνω’s meaning of sinning, emphasizing previous or continuing sinful behavior.

Translation Options:

1. To sin previously – Emphasizes temporal aspect
2. To continue in sin – Highlights ongoing nature
3. To persist in former sins – Combines both aspects

E – Exploring Similar Words

• ἁμαρτάνω (hamartanō) [ham-ar-TAN-o] – to sin, more general
• παραπίπτω (parapiptō) [par-ap-IP-to] – to fall away
• See G4258

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a verb, προαμαρτάνω shows:

• Tense: Perfect, Participle
• Voice: Active
• Mood: Participle
• Person: Third
• Number: Plural
• Aspect: Completed action with continuing results

Examples:

• Perfect Participle: προημαρτηκότων (those having sinned before)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its use in contexts of persistent sin. Thayer’s notes its connection to church discipline. LSJ documents its rare usage outside biblical contexts. Vine’s highlights its perfect tense usage indicating continuing effects. Moulton and Milligan note its specialized use in moral contexts.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“I fear that when I come again my God may humble me before you, and I may have to mourn over many of those who [προαμαρτάνω] sinned earlier and have not repented.” 2 Corinthians 12:21

Additional References:
2 Corinthians 13:2

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

προαμαρτάνω reveals the serious nature of persistent sin while pointing to the necessity of repentance. It proclaims the good news that King Jesus offers forgiveness and transformation, but also calls us to genuine repentance. This word reminds us that while God’s grace is abundant, He calls us to turn from sin and live in newness of life.

D – Did You Know?

1. The perfect tense usage implies lasting consequences of unrepented sin.
2. Early church discipline procedures often referenced this term.
3. The word influenced development of Christian teaching on repentance.

Strong’s G4258: A compound verb meaning “to sin previously” or “to sin before,” combining πρό (before) with ἁμαρτάνω (to sin). Used in pastoral contexts addressing persistent sin, particularly in Paul’s dealings with the Corinthian church, emphasizing the serious nature of ongoing, unrepentant sin.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: sin, repentance, church discipline, pastoral ministry, Corinthians, Paul’s teaching, persistent sin, moral conduct, transformation, spiritual growth, biblical keywords​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​