Topical Encyclopedia Imprisonment, as depicted in the Bible, serves as both a literal and metaphorical concept, reflecting the physical confinement of individuals as well as spiritual and moral captivity. Throughout the Scriptures, imprisonment is portrayed in various contexts, often highlighting themes of divine justice, human fallibility, and the power of faith.Old Testament Instances In the Old Testament, imprisonment is frequently associated with the consequences of sin and the exercise of authority. One of the earliest mentions is found in the account of Joseph, who was unjustly imprisoned in Egypt due to false accusations by Potiphar's wife (Genesis 39:20). Despite his circumstances, Joseph's faithfulness to God led to his eventual rise to power, illustrating how God can use imprisonment for His purposes. The Mosaic Law also addresses imprisonment, though it is not as prevalent as other forms of punishment such as fines or restitution. In some cases, imprisonment served as a temporary measure until a matter could be resolved (Leviticus 24:12). The prophets, too, experienced imprisonment, often as a result of their bold proclamations against sin and injustice. Jeremiah, for example, was imprisoned by King Zedekiah for prophesying the fall of Jerusalem (Jeremiah 37:15-16). New Testament Context In the New Testament, imprisonment becomes a significant theme, particularly in the context of the early Christian church. John the Baptist was imprisoned and eventually executed by Herod Antipas for his outspoken criticism of Herod's unlawful marriage (Mark 6:17-28). This event foreshadows the persecution that many early Christians would face. The Apostle Paul frequently encountered imprisonment during his missionary journeys. His letters, often written from prison, reflect a deep sense of joy and purpose despite his circumstances. In Philippians 1:12-14, Paul writes, "Now I want you to know, brothers, that my circumstances have actually served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ." Paul's imprisonment became an opportunity to spread the gospel and encourage the early church. The Book of Acts records several instances of imprisonment, including the miraculous release of Peter from prison by an angel (Acts 12:5-10) and the imprisonment of Paul and Silas in Philippi, where their prayers and hymns led to a miraculous earthquake and the conversion of the jailer (Acts 16:25-34). Spiritual Implications Beyond the physical aspect, imprisonment in the Bible often symbolizes spiritual bondage. Jesus proclaimed His mission to "proclaim liberty to the captives" (Luke 4:18), emphasizing the deliverance from sin and spiritual oppression. The Apostle Paul speaks of being "slaves to sin" before coming to faith in Christ, who sets believers free (Romans 6:17-18). The theme of imprisonment also serves as a reminder of the cost of discipleship. Jesus warned His followers of persecution and imprisonment for His name's sake (Matthew 10:17-18). Yet, He assured them of His presence and ultimate victory over all forms of bondage. Conclusion Imprisonment in the Bible, whether physical or spiritual, underscores the tension between human authority and divine sovereignty. It highlights the trials faced by God's people and the transformative power of faith in the midst of adversity. Through the narratives of those who endured imprisonment, believers are encouraged to remain steadfast, trusting in God's deliverance and purpose. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia IMPRISONMENTim-priz'-'-n-ment. Greek 5084. teresis -- a watching, hence imprisonment, a keeping ... a watching, hence imprisonment, a keeping. Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: teresis Phonetic Spelling: (tay'-ray-sis) Short Definition: a prison ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5084.htm - 7k 5438. phulake -- a guarding, guard, watch 1199. desmos -- a band, bond 3085. lutrosis -- a ransoming, a redemption Strong's Hebrew 3628. keli -- confinement, restraint, imprisonment... 3627, 3628. keli or kelu. 3629 . confinement, restraint, imprisonment. Transliteration: keli or kelu Phonetic Spelling: (kel-ee') Short Definition: prison. ... /hebrew/3628.htm - 6k 3608. kele -- confinement, restraint, imprisonment 613. esur -- a band, bond Library A Relaton of the Imprisonment of Mr. John Bunyan, Minister of the ... Imprisonment and Death of John Paul's Second Imprisonment, and Martyrdom; Peter, his Epistles ... A Relation of My Imprisonment in the Month of November 1660 Of the Order in which the Accounts of John's Imprisonment and ... Doubts of John the Baptist in his Imprisonment. --His Message to ... Different Accounts of the Call of Peter, and of the Imprisonment ... Paul's Epistles; his Collection for the Poor Saints at Jerusalem ... Jealousy of John's Disciples. --Final Testimony of the Baptist. ... Whether the Time of the Persecution or Antichrist Should be ... Thesaurus Imprisonment (15 Occurrences)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia IMPRISONMENT. im-priz'-'-n-ment. See PUNISHMENTS; PRISON. Multi-Version Concordance Imprisonment (15 Occurrences). ... /i/imprisonment.htm - 11k Praetorian (2 Occurrences) Prisoner (87 Occurrences) Hermogenes (1 Occurrence) Luke (4 Occurrences) Titus (15 Occurrences) Paul (207 Occurrences) Pastoral Guard (185 Occurrences) Jumping (14 Occurrences) Resources What are the prison epistles? | GotQuestions.orgWhat happened on Paul's fourth missionary journey? | GotQuestions.org What is the cause of Christ? | GotQuestions.org Imprisonment: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Imprisonment (15 Occurrences)Acts 20:23 Acts 23:29 Acts 26:31 Romans 16:7 Philippians 1:7 Philippians 1:13 Philippians 1:14 Philippians 1:17 Colossians 4:18 2 Timothy 2:9 Philemon 1:10 Philemon 1:13 Hebrews 11:36 Revelation 20:7 Ezra 7:26 Subtopics Imprisonment of John the Baptist Imprisonment of Paul and Silas Related Terms |
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