Matthew 24:25
Behold, I have told you before.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
This warning was transmitted orally and then in writing (Matthew's Gospel, likely written 60s-80s AD) before the tribulation period. Early Christians possessed this prophecy, which explains why they successfully escaped Jerusalem while non-Christian Jews perished. Church fathers cite Matthew 24 extensively, showing how seriously early believers took Jesus's warnings. Today, this preserved warning in Scripture continues protecting believers from deception—those who know what Jesus said beforehand cannot be caught unaware.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Jesus's clear advance warning increase accountability for those who ignore it?
- What is the relationship between prophetic foreknowledge and moral responsibility to prepare?
- How can modern believers use Jesus's warnings about false teachers to protect their churches from deception?
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Analysis & Commentary
Behold, I have told you before (ἰδοὺ προείρηκα ὑμῖν)—The interjection ἰδού (idou) demands attention: "Pay attention!" The verb προλέγω (prolegō, "tell beforehand") in perfect tense (προείρηκα) indicates completed action with continuing results: Jesus has spoken, and his warning remains valid. This solemn conclusion to the deception warnings removes all excuse.
Forewarned is forearmed. Jesus provides advance knowledge not to satisfy curiosity but to protect disciples from deception. Like Paul's warning to Ephesian elders (Acts 20:29-31, "I have warned you night and day with tears"), this is pastoral care. The brevity intensifies urgency—no lengthy elaboration needed, just reminder: "I have told you." The prophetic authority behind this statement is absolute. When deception comes, disciples cannot claim ignorance. They must measure all teaching and claims against Christ's words.