I recently read an article in the LA Times (Jan 10, 2022) about prisons in Argentina that had segregated evangelical Christians from the rest of the prison population. The long article highlighted the fact that the Christians in the prison behaved differently than the rest of the inmates. They were not involved in fights or drug trafficking. They cooperated with the prison guards and worked together to improve conditions in their part of the prison. They even had local pastors working with the inmates in the prison. Churches in the community contributed financial support and personal counseling for the inmates.
Some people were critical of Argentina for segregating prisoners and allowing the evangelicals special treatment. But prison officials replied that problems and unrest were dramatically reduced in the parts of the prison that were populated with Christians. In addition, prison officials carefully screened other inmates that wanted to transfer to the area where Christians were being held. They wanted to prevent new prisoners from intimidating inmates and spreading drugs and violence.
There are a number of examples in the Bible where people of God were in jail or prison. Joseph was thrown in prison in Egypt (Exodus chapters 37-40). Paul was imprisoned in Caesarea and Rome (Acts 23-28 / Colossians 4:10 / Philemon 23). Peter was held in prison in Jerusalem.
Many people would think of spending time in prison as a depressing experience. But there are numerous examples of how people were changed and their faith deepened during their time in prison. The Apostle Paul used the time while he was imprisoned as an opportunity to tell prisoners and jailers about Jesus (Philippians 1:12-14). In addition Paul used the time to encourage fellow believers in prison and write letters to Christians on the outside.
Chuck Colson went to prison for his part in the famous Watergate scandal during the Nixon administration in the 1970’s. After he completed his sentence he launched a ministry called “Prison Fellowship” to minister to men and women in prison. He spoke in prisons around the world and shared the message of hope and forgiveness in Christ. Let me encourage you to contact “Prison Fellowship” or a local church and find out how you can become involved in a ministry to inmates in a prison near you. You can also minister to children who have a parent in prison. You will be glad you did and they will too.
Read 365 more stories by the author in his book Let Mark Encourage You by Mark Hopper. Purchase a book for only $20 plus $5 for postage. Order your copy today at markh@efreedb.org.
Let Me Encourage You by Mark Hopper 