### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apokteínō**, represented by `{{G615}}`, means **to kill outright** or, figuratively, to destroy. It appears **83 times** across **71 unique verses** in the Bible, most often translated as "kill," "slay," or "put to death." The term denotes a decisive and final act of taking a life, whether physical or spiritual.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G615}}` is central to the story of Christ and his followers. Jesus repeatedly foretells his own fate, stating that he must go to Jerusalem, suffer, be **killed** `{{G615}}`, and be raised again on the third day [[Matthew 16:21]]. The term is also used to describe the persecution of God's messengers, with Jerusalem being condemned as the city that **killest** `{{G615}}` the prophets [[Matthew 23:37]]. This theme extends to believers, who are warned they will be delivered up to be afflicted and **killed** `{{G615}}` for His name's sake [[Matthew 24:9]]. The word also carries a figurative meaning, as when Paul writes that "the letter **killeth** `{{G615}}`, but the spirit giveth life" [[2 Corinthians 3:6]] or that Christ has **slain** `{{G615}}` the enmity through the cross [[Ephesians 2:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the actions and hostility associated with `{{G615}}`:
* `{{G1194}}` **dérō** (to scourge, beat): This term for beating or thrashing often precedes the act of killing. In the parable of the wicked husbandmen, they **beat** one servant, **killed** another, and stoned a third [[Matthew 21:35]].
* `{{G1377}}` **diṓkō** (to pursue, persecute): This word signifies the hostile pursuit that leads to violence. The fathers are described as having **persecuted** `{{G1377}}` the prophets before they **slew** `{{G615}}` them [[Acts 7:52]].
* `{{G4717}}` **stauróō** (to crucify): This specifies the method of execution. Jesus warns his disciples that some of the prophets and wise men He sends will be **killed** `{{G615}}` and **crucified** `{{G4717}}` [[Matthew 23:34]].
* `{{G5406}}` **phoneús** (murderer): This noun identifies one who commits the act of killing. Stephen accuses the council of being the betrayers and **murderers** `{{G5406}}` of the Just One, whom they had **slain** `{{G615}}` [[Acts 7:52]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G615}}` is significant, touching on themes of sacrifice, discipleship, and judgment.
* **The Cost of Discipleship:** The word establishes martyrdom as a potential reality for followers of Christ. Jesus warns that those who **kill** `{{G615}}` his disciples will think they are offering service to God [[John 16:2]].
* **Redemptive Sacrifice:** The predicted death of Jesus is foundational. He is called the "Prince of life," whom men **killed** `{{G615}}`, but whom God raised from the dead [[Acts 3:15]]. His death is not an accident but a prophesied event.
* **Spiritual Destruction:** The term is used metaphorically to describe the destructive power of sin and the law apart from the Spirit. Paul states that sin, using the commandment, deceived him and **slew** `{{G615}}` him [[Romans 7:11]].
* **Divine Judgment:** In apocalyptic visions, `{{G615}}` is an instrument of divine judgment. Power is given to the four horsemen to **kill** `{{G615}}` with sword, hunger, death, and beasts [[Revelation 6:8]], and the beast that ascends from the pit will **kill** `{{G615}}` God's two witnesses [[Revelation 11:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G615}}` is a powerful word that conveys more than just the act of physical death. It is intrinsically linked to the fate of the prophets, the core of Christ's sacrificial mission, and the persecution faced by the faithful. Its application extends into the spiritual realm, illustrating the deadly nature of sin and the power of Christ's cross to **slay** the enmity between humanity and God.
TRV