Prisons are among the darkest places on earth, spiritually speaking. Inmates are held without most of the basic amenities and freedoms most people take for granted: they wear what the prison tells them to wear, eat what the prison serves, associate with whom the prison permits and at times the prison allows. They are often subject to indignities by the guards and other inmates, and cannot object without fear of further punishment. For the most part there is good reason for the restrictions. Inmates are in prison because of murder, other violent crimes, theft, fraud or various drug offenses. And of course the neighbors and companions of each felon are other felons. It is a very dark place.
Nevertheless, into such darkness the light of the Gospel can and does shine. As Paul reminded the Corinthians, “such were some of you.” That is, even people who have done terrible things can respond to the Gospel, repent and obey Christ.
Prison authorities generally encourage inmates to take courses as an aid to rehabilitation. We know that God’s Word is a living message that can change people’s lives. We know all scripture is inspired by God and profitable for many things: this can help with the rehabilitation of prisoners too.
If you know of someone in prison, it is good to invite them to learn of God’s Word. To do this you will need a plan. Preaching to prisoners is not something you take lightly. Some of these people are truly seeking God. When the inmate goes to the Chapel and listens to the Chaplain he or she will not hear the Truth. The inmate truly sits in darkness unless he or she receives the light of the Gospel message. We know that only God knows the hearts and minds of man. He sends His angels forth to do His will and call those who will respond. Some inmates take many Bible courses and some have never owned a Bible in their life. Many come to realize that they do need God in their life as they see how wicked the prison is (without God) and want out.
When writing to an inmate have a good Bible study plan ready to use. Inmates do not have access to the Internet or e-mail, so all correspondence is done through the mail. Do NOT use a residential address, but use a P. O. Box. When you write to an inmate remember you are an ambassador to Christ and so you are writing in the capacity of him for their rehabilitation. You are not to be just a pen pal, so every letter you write will contain some references to the Gospel message. Sure, you can get to know the inmate because one day you hope to have him/her as a brother/sister in Christ. You have to gain their trust and confidence. The inmates do receive other Bible courses, but the Christadelphians are people who love God’s Word and are able to give Scriptural references to back up what we say and believe. Many inmates like this. We find that when an inmate focuses on God’s Word, it uplifts and elevates him or her out of the depression of the prison. It does change their life when they read God’s Word and apply it in their lives.
An example is Isiah, in the Correctional Training Facility at Soledad. Eight years ago, when he was in the County Jail, he completed a Bible course, but didn’t really take it to heart. Then he was sent to the San Quentin State Prison in California and the shock of prison life set in. He did another Bible course and this time took it very seriously. Now Isiah is sending in 13 to 23 Bible questions from the daily Bible readings with each letter. He also shares the Scriptures with another inmate when he can meet with him.
We are pleased to report that this work has led to several baptisms. Bro. Kenneth, who remains an inmate at Soledad, as well as Sis. Deanna and Bros. Julio and William who have since been released.
For more information about prison preaching and the precautions to take, contact the author at Sunshine95051@comcast.net.
The Origin of the Organic World – Part One