The Mark Driscoll Podcast The Difference Between Killing And Murder
Feb 19, 2026
A biblical exploration of the difference between lawful killing and murder. Discussion of Cain and Abel and the Hebrew distinction between killing and murder. Examination of capital punishment, self defense, and when taking life is considered just. Reflections on abortion, divine justice, and how scripture views anger and the heart’s role in violence.
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Murder Versus Killing Distinction
- The sixth commandment in Hebrew targets unlawful murder, not all killing, so translation matters.
- Mark Driscoll argues the Bible distinguishes between murder (wrong) and killing (sometimes lawful).
Witnessing A Murder In Haiti
- Mark Driscoll recounts witnessing a murder while delivering relief supplies in Haiti.
- He uses the memory to stress murder's personal horror and spiritual assault on God's image in people.
Killing Can Be Justified
- Murder is the taking of an innocent life while killing can be the taking of a guilty life.
- Driscoll frames some killings as morally justified, even virtuous, when they prevent further harm.
