In America, imprisonment has come to be synonymous with punishment. However, an examination of the major rationales for imprisonment -- incapacitation, deterrence, rehabilitation, and punishment -indicates that these goals often are not met by the workings of the current criminal justice system. In the Old Testament, punishment was equated with justice and involved restitution. Restitution, by providing a more certain form of punishment, can have greater deterrent value. Its emphasis on personal responsibility can serve rehabilitative goals. Further, it provides a means of ensuring victim's rights, while also reducing prison overcrowding. It is urged that Christians take action in this matter. Reform of the current situation requires that Christians get the facts, know the arguments for reform, talk to others, and work with others for specific change. 29 notes and references.