Topical Encyclopedia The term "heretofore" is an archaic English word that means "before this time" or "previously." In the context of the Bible, it is used to refer to events, actions, or conditions that have occurred in the past. While the word itself may not appear frequently in modern translations, its concept is integral to understanding the continuity and progression of biblical narratives and teachings.Biblical Usage and Context In the Berean Standard Bible , the concept of "heretofore" is often conveyed through phrases like "in times past," "formerly," or "before now." These expressions are used to highlight God's past actions, the history of Israel, or the previous state of individuals before a transformative event or divine intervention. 1. God's Faithfulness and Covenant: The Bible frequently recounts God's past dealings with His people to remind them of His faithfulness and the enduring nature of His covenant. For instance, in Deuteronomy 4:32-34, Moses urges the Israelites to consider the unprecedented acts of God "from the day that God created man on the earth" and how He delivered them from Egypt. This reflection on past events serves to strengthen their faith and commitment to God's commandments. 2. Transformation and Redemption: The concept of "heretofore" is also significant in illustrating the transformation of individuals and communities. In Ephesians 2:11-13, Paul reminds the Gentile believers of their former state "at that time" when they were "separate from Christ" and "foreigners to the covenants of the promise." This contrast with their current status as members of God's household underscores the redemptive work of Christ. 3. Prophetic Fulfillment: The Bible often refers to past prophecies and their fulfillment as a testament to God's sovereignty and the reliability of His word. In Matthew 1:22-23, the birth of Jesus is presented as the fulfillment of what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet Isaiah, emphasizing the continuity of God's plan from "heretofore" to the present. 4. Human Condition and Sin: The Scriptures also use the concept of "heretofore" to describe the previous sinful state of humanity. In Romans 11:30, Paul speaks of the Gentiles who "formerly disobeyed God" but have now received mercy. This acknowledgment of past disobedience highlights the transformative power of God's grace. Theological Implications Understanding the concept of "heretofore" in the Bible is crucial for grasping the continuity of God's redemptive history. It serves as a reminder of God's unchanging nature and His ongoing work in the world. By reflecting on past events, believers are encouraged to trust in God's promises and remain faithful to His commandments. The use of "heretofore" also emphasizes the transformative power of God's intervention in the lives of individuals and communities. It highlights the contrast between the old and new, the past and present, underscoring the hope and renewal found in a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (adv.) Up to this time; hitherto; before; in time past.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia HERETOFOREher-too-for', Hebrew temol, "yesterday," "neither heretofore, nor since" (Exodus 4:10; compare Exodus 5:7, 8, 14 Joshua 3:4 Ruth 2:11); 'ethmol shilshom, "yesterday," "third day" (1 Samuel 4:7, "There hath not been such a thing heretofore.") Greek 4258. proamartano -- to sin before ... sin already, heretofore sin. From pro and hamartano; to sin previously (to conversion) -- sin already, heretofore sin. see GREEK pro. see GREEK hamartano. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4258.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 865. ethmowl -- yesterday, recently, formerly... Spelling: (eth-mole') Short Definition: time. before that time, heretofore, of late old, times past, yesterday Or tithmowl {ith-mole'}; or ... /hebrew/865.htm - 6k 8543. temol -- yesterday, recently, formerly 8032. shilshowm -- three days ago, day before, yesterday Library Of Good Works. A Description of the Sea-Coast, Out of Pliny and Strabo. The West Coast of Galilee-Carmel. Is God in the Camp? An Account of the Organization of the Methodist Episcopal Church ... 2 Cor. xiii. 1 "Thy King Cometh" Beth-El. Beth-Aven. Showing How the Inward Man Should Exercise Himself, that He May be ... Of the Threefold Prayer of Christ, that we Might be one with God Thesaurus Heretofore (25 Occurrences)... (adv.) Up to this time; hitherto; before; in time past. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. HERETOFORE. ... Multi-Version Concordance Heretofore (25 Occurrences). ... /h/heretofore.htm - 15k Man-slayer (20 Occurrences) Hating (95 Occurrences) Unknowingly (3 Occurrences) Gored (3 Occurrences) Watch (203 Occurrences) Yesterday (13 Occurrences) Quantity (18 Occurrences) Knewest (11 Occurrences) Nativity (9 Occurrences) Resources What is the “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” sermon? | GotQuestions.orgHeretofore: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Heretofore (25 Occurrences)2 Corinthians 12:21 2 Corinthians 13:2 1 Peter 3:5 1 Peter 3:20 Genesis 31:2 Genesis 31:5 Exodus 4:10 Exodus 5:7 Exodus 5:8 Exodus 5:14 Exodus 21:29 Exodus 21:36 Deuteronomy 4:42 Deuteronomy 19:4 Deuteronomy 19:6 Joshua 3:4 Joshua 4:18 Ruth 2:11 1 Samuel 4:7 1 Samuel 10:11 1 Samuel 14:21 1 Samuel 19:7 2 Samuel 3:17 2 Samuel 5:2 2 Kings 13:5 Subtopics Related Terms |