The Greek verb diacheirizo (G1315) means to handle with violence, to lay hands on with intent to kill. It appears twice in Acts, describing attempts by Jewish authorities to kill apostles.
Diacheirizo frames early Christian persecution in stark terms. In Acts 5:30, Peter charges the Sanhedrin: 'The God of our ancestors raised Jesus from the dead — whom you killed.' This direct confrontation with religious authority reveals the transforming power of resurrection faith. Those who had fled at the cross now willingly faced death for the risen Christ.