Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Hebrews 13:3

"Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; them that are illtreated, as being yourselves also in the body." — Hebrews 13:3 (ASV)

The writer turns his attention to prisoners. Guests may come unbidden, but prisoners must be actively sought out . Some people withheld help from prisoners for fear of suffering a similar punishment. But Christians should have compassion on those in prison “as if you were their fellow prisoners.” “If one part suffers, every part suffers with it,” wrote Paul (1 Corinthians 12:26); there is something of the same thought here. Believers should feel so much for their friends in prison and for “those who are mistreated” that they become one with them. Compassion is an essential part of Christian living.