John Calvin 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)

Remember those who are in bonds, or, Be mindful of those who are bound, etc. There is nothing that can give us a more genuine feeling of compassion than to put ourselves in the place of those who are in distress; therefore he says, that we should think of those in bonds as if we were bound with them.

What follows the first clause, as being yourselves also in the body, is variously explained. Some take a general view thus: “You are also exposed to the same afflictions, according to the common lot of humanity;” but others give a more restricted sense: “As if you were in their body.” I can approve of neither, for I apply the words to the body of the Church, so that the meaning would be this: “Since you are members of the same body, it is fitting for you to feel in common for each other’s afflictions, that there may be nothing disunited among you.”