Hebrews 13:3 – “Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse is a direct call to care deeply for others—especially those who are suffering. It says, “Continue to remember”—which means this isn’t a one-time act of sympathy. It’s something believers are meant to keep doing: to intentionally think about, pray for, and support people who are hurting.
It specifically mentions those in prison and those who are being mistreated. But this isn’t talking about criminals in a general sense—it’s about fellow believers who were imprisoned or persecuted for their faith. The verse tells us to think of them as if we were right there with them, locked up and suffering. That kind of empathy is rare, but it’s exactly what God is calling His people to have. It’s not about distant pity—it’s about shared pain.
Historical Context
In the time Hebrews was written, Christians were facing real and serious persecution. Some had been arrested. Others had lost their homes or been pushed to the margins of society. Prisons back then were harsh and dehumanizing. If someone didn’t bring you food or help from the outside, you could easily die there.
So this verse isn’t theoretical—it was written to believers who had seen their friends dragged away and jailed. Earlier in Hebrews 10:34, the writer reminds them, “You sympathized with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property.” These Christians had already shown compassion, and now they’re being told: don’t stop.
In a time when aligning with prisoners could put you in danger too, this command showed the depth of Christian love. It was risky—but it was right.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches that Christianity is not just personal—it’s communal. We’re not meant to walk the Christian life alone or ignore others in trouble. The church is a body (1 Corinthians 12:26), and when one part suffers, the whole body is supposed to feel it.
It also reflects the truth that our identity in Christ connects us to every other believer. Whether free or imprisoned, known or unknown, if someone belongs to Christ, they’re family—and we are called to love them like it.
This verse also pushes back against a shallow kind of faith that’s only concerned with comfort or personal blessing. True faith gets down in the dirt with those who are hurting.
Literary Analysis
Hebrews 13 shifts into practical, real-life instructions. Verse 3 flows right after verses about loving one another and showing hospitality. Now the focus turns to the suffering members of the church—those who might be out of sight but shouldn’t be out of mind.
The language is strong and personal: “as if you were together with them” and “as if you yourselves were suffering.” The repetition of “as if” builds a powerful image. It’s a call to radical empathy—not just feeling bad, but putting yourself in their shoes.
The structure also ties remembrance to action. To “remember” in the Bible often implies doing something about it—praying, visiting, helping, encouraging.
Biblical Cross-References
- Matthew 25:36 – “I was in prison and you came to visit me.”
- 1 Corinthians 12:26 – “If one part suffers, every part suffers with it.”
- Galatians 6:2 – “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
- Romans 12:15 – “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.”
- 2 Timothy 1:8 – “Do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner.”
These verses show that caring for the suffering isn’t an optional part of the Christian life—it’s essential.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
Today, many believers around the world are still being imprisoned, tortured, and persecuted for their faith. It can be easy to forget them when we live in comfort or freedom. But Hebrews 13:3 challenges us not to look away.
This verse also reminds us to care for those in our own communities who are going through deep suffering—those in prison, those facing injustice, those being mistreated in any way. We’re called not just to be aware, but to enter into their pain with prayer, support, and action.
And even if we can’t physically visit a prisoner or directly help someone being persecuted, we can write letters, give to ministries, pray earnestly, and speak up for those who are suffering. This kind of love is costly—but it’s the love Jesus modeled.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God never forgets the suffering. Throughout Scripture, He shows deep concern for the broken, the oppressed, and the outcast. He sees every tear, hears every cry, and promises justice.
Hebrews 13:3 reflects the kind of love that comes from God’s heart. He doesn’t turn away from those in pain—and He calls His people to do the same. When we remember those who are hurting, we reflect the mercy and compassion of God.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus knows what it means to suffer. He was mistreated, falsely accused, imprisoned, beaten, and executed. He didn’t just teach us to love the suffering—He became one of them.
Isaiah 53:3 calls Him “a man of suffering, familiar with pain.” And Hebrews 2:17-18 says that because He suffered, He is able to help those who are suffering now.
When we remember those in prison or facing mistreatment, we are honoring Christ. In fact, Jesus said in Matthew 25:40, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” When we care for hurting people, we are caring for Him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Who are the people today that this verse might be talking about—both globally and locally?
- How often do you remember and pray for persecuted Christians?
- What are some practical ways you can show empathy and care for those who are suffering?
- Are there any risks you’ve been afraid to take when it comes to loving others sacrificially?
- How does Jesus’ suffering shape the way you think about the suffering of others?