As If a Fellow Prisoner
Words of Faith 5-8-26
Dr. Jeffrey D. Hoy © 2026
Jeff.Hoy@faithfellowshipweb.com
Faith Fellowship Church - Melbourne, FL
www.faithfellowshipweb.com
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Hebrews 13
[3] Remember those in prison as if you were their fellow prisoners, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.

Not too long ago, I visited a state maximum security correctional facility (prison). As I made arrangements regarding my clearance and credentials, I noted that the prison official seemed unfamiliar with the proper procedure for clearing a pastor for a visit. They were rather apologetic and explained that they were unfamiliar with the procedure, as it had been over 3 years since a pastor had last visited the facility. I was stunned.

I had driven nine hours to make the visit. But with some 1400 inmates, I thought surely there would be some pastors nearby who would minister in the prison. But no one could clearly remember the last time a pastor had visited. I also learned that the Prison Chaplain did tremendous ministry and that many of the inmates minister to one another through Bible study and witness. But there were also many men in great need who were virtually forgotten by the Body of Christ outside the prison walls. I thought— How many places like this are there?

There are many different sorts of people in prison. Many have committed very serious crimes. Some may well be innocent or have gotten a bad deal or inadequate defense from the system. Many will tell you that they are guilty of terrible crimes, but they have found a new life in Christ. Whatever the case, those who are in prison are among those who most need the Gospel and the hope that Jesus provides. There are some I visit who have never been freer than they are right now behind bars because they know Jesus.

Of course, not all prisons have bars and razor wire. Some live in prisons of their own construction, while others live in prisons built by circumstance and what the world calls misfortune. A nursing home can seem like a prison to a person whose mind and heart long to be outdoors. A condition such as a stroke can sentence a healthy mind to a prison within an unresponsive body and vocal cords. Still others are imprisoned within the trappings of wealth that lock out genuine human contact.

How do we respond to such people? The Writer says we respond as if we were their fellow prisoners. We are to connect with their pain and loneliness. We are to give whatever aid or comfort is possible in whatever way we would hope to be comforted. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

How? Here are some practical ways to help. Find out if there is a prison ministry in your area. Contact the chaplain of the local county jail or state facility to find out what help they need. Chaplains always need Bibles and study materials.

Find out from your pastor whether any members or constituents of your church are in jail. I have known of churches that remove the names of prisoners from their church rolls when they have been convicted. Don't let them be forgotten by your church. If appropriate, write to or visit those in jail. A simple card or note is so appreciated. A small money order allows a prisoner to buy basic toiletries, cards, stamps, and stationery. For years, I have sent money to prisoners when there was little or no money available from the church. You can help from arm's length through your pastor, or join an educational program that teaches prisoners how to search for jobs upon their release.

Likewise, are there people in your church who are in a nursing home or confined by a physical condition? Is there an organized service at the nursing home or a regular visitation for those who are homebound? These things are not the job of your pastor. He is there to EQUIP the saints to do works of service.

Remember, our Lord was once a prisoner. When we do it unto the least of these, we have done it unto Him.

Lord Jesus, remind me of those who are imprisoned. Give me the faith and courage to reach out to those who need the freedom only You can provide. Show me the simple ways that I might show Your compassion. In Your Name, Amen.

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© Jeffrey D. Hoy 2025
Dr. Jeffrey D. Hoy - Faith Fellowship Church (EFCA)
2820 Business Center Blvd.
Melbourne, Florida 32940 (321)-259-7200
Jeff.Hoy@faithfellowshipweb.com
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Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture is quoted from the New International Version (R) of The Holy Bible. Copyright (c) 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House. All rights reserved. Words of Faith (c) 1997, 2025 Jeffrey D. Hoy.