What does the Bible say about imprisonment?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible presents imprisonment as a grievous human reality that God may sovereignly use to expose injustice, discipline sin, advance the gospel, and sustain his servants with hope. Joseph was unjustly confined, yet God’s providence was at work even in Genesis 39:20. Jeremiah suffered persecution in a cistern, and John the Baptist and the apostles were imprisoned for faithfully speaking God’s truth. Acts 16:24 shows Paul and Silas trusting God amid harsh confinement, while Acts 12:4 displays the Lord’s power to deliver Peter. Jesus also warns that unresolved wrongdoing can bring judgment and imprisonment, as in Matthew 5:26 and 18:30. Christians therefore oppose injustice, seek mercy, and rest in God’s righteous rule.
Study outline
Curated topical outlines from classic public-domain study works.
Nave's Topical Bible
- Of Joseph Genesis 39:20
- Of Jeremiah Jeremiah 38:6
- Of John the Baptist Matthew 11:2; Matthew 14:3
- Of the Apostles Acts 5:18
- Of Paul and Silas Acts 16:24
- Of Peter Acts 12:4
- Of debtors Matthew 5:26; Matthew 18:30
- See PRISON
- See PRISONERS
- See PUNISHMENTS
See also
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