Is Real Reform POSSIBLE?

The Role of the Bible

Many people feel that religion can play a large role in  helping prisoners to repent of their previous actions. Of course, a basic problem with this is that any change of character brought about behind bars may vanish once the prisoner has been released.  One inmate put it this way:  "A lot of people find Christ in this place-but when they leave here, they leave Christ behind!"

Experience has demonstrated that genuine change must occur within-in the criminal's mind and heart-and that the basis must be sincere repentance for past wrongdoing. A program of the Bible education can help and individual to learn how God feels about wickedness and why it is wrong.  This can give him strong reasons for not wanting to continue in such a course.

Jehovah's Witnesses are conducting such a Bible education program in numerous prisons around the world, with wonderful results.    "We have been helped to discover what the Bible says about the purpose of  life and the blessings the future holds for mankind," commented one prisoner, adding:  "It's an incredible education!"  Another inmate remarked:  "We're making decisions  based on God's counsel. . . . We see changes in ourselves.  We know what life's priorities are."

Of course, the need for reform extends beyond prison walls.  The true solution to the prison crisis lies in eliminating the need for prisons.  One of the glorious Bible truths that has touched the hearts of so many inmates  is expressed in God's promise: "Evildoers themselves will be cut off . . . The righteous themselves will possess the earth, and they will live forever upon it." -Psalm 37:9, 29. 

When that happens, God's superior standards will be enforced by an incorruptible government that is both loving and firm, God's heavenly Kingdom under Christ-the government for which Christians have been taught to pray.  (Matthew 6:10)  In that new world, every inhabitant will be  reformed by learning God's superior laws.  Then it will be true as never before that"the earth will certainly be filled  with the knowledge of Jehovah as the waters are covering the very sea.."  (Isaiah 11:9) With what result?  The law-abiding inhabitants of the new world "will indeed find their exquisite delight in the abundance of peace.." -Psalm 37:11. 

Next time: Is Real Reform POSSIBLE?/Opening  a Window of  Hope

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