thinking bible.

You asked

what does the bible say about prison and people in prison?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

Hebrews 13:3

Remember those who are in bonds, as bound with them; and those who are ill-treated, as being yourselves also in the body.

This verse comes from the closing section of the letter to the Hebrews, which is a sermon-like exhortation written to early Jewish Christians. The author encourages them to persevere in their faith and to live out practical ethical principles, including hospitality, care for the vulnerable, and loyalty to their leaders, in the face of persecution and social pressure.

How might remembering and identifying with those in prison challenge current ideas about justice and community responsibility?

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Read alongside it

  • Matthew 25:36

    Jesus identifies himself with those in prison, stating that serving them is serving him.

  • Acts 16:25-34

    This passage recounts Paul and Silas singing in prison, leading to an earthquake and the jailer's conversion.

  • Isaiah 61:1

    The prophet speaks of bringing good news to the poor, binding up the brokenhearted, and proclaiming liberty to captives.

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