King James Version

What Does Matthew 24:25 Mean?

Matthew 24:25 in the King James Version says “Behold, I have told you before.” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 24 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Behold, I have told you before.”

Matthew 24:25 · KJV

Context

23

Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not.

24

For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.

25

Behold, I have told you before.

26

Wherefore if they shall say unto you, Behold, he is in the desert; go not forth: behold, he is in the secret chambers; believe it not.

27

For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.

Read Matthew 24 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study 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.

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Historical & Cultural 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.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Jesus's clear advance warning increase accountability for those who ignore it?
  2. What is the relationship between prophetic foreknowledge and moral responsibility to prepare?
  3. How can modern believers use Jesus's warnings about false teachers to protect their churches from deception?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 3 words
ἰδού,1 of 3

“Behold”

G2400

used as imperative lo!

προείρηκα2 of 3

“I have told”

G4280

used as alternate of g4277; to say already, predict

ὑμῖν3 of 3

“you”

G5213

to (with or by) you

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Matthew 24:25 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Matthew 24:25 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

John 16:1Luke 21:13Isaiah 46:10-11Isaiah 48:5-6Isaiah 44:7-8

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