Luke 12:57-59 57“And also why do you not judge for yourselves what is right? 58For as you go with your accuser before the judge, on the way make an effort to settle with him, lest he drag you to the judge, and the judge will hand you over to the officer, and the officer put you in prison. 59I tell you, you will never get out until you have paid the very last penny.”
Jesus continues addressing the curious crowd of onlookers who needed to consider the cost of following Jesus and not just tagging along for the entertainment. These words fit more with the disciples than the crowd, but Luke does not mention a change of audience from verse 54. The people had heard enough to know the truth and had to make a decision about what to do with Jesus.
The rhetorical question of verse 57 can be interpreted several ways. It could simply be an invitation to the people to think carefully about Jesus’ words. Or, it could be a broader reference for the people to make good choices at that moment lest they end up in prison. The saying could be taken literally, with the people ending up in jail, or spiritually, with the prison representing the judgment that will happen when Jesus comes again. There was enough evidence for the people to know the truth of God’s kingdom. But those who follow Jesus should also realize that they could face danger and persecution because of the religious and political authorities.
When taken literally for the historical situation with Jesus’ first coming, the short parable of verses 58-59 warns Jesus’ followers to avoid having to appear before the authorities as much as possible. The authorities will more likely toss believers into jail because they see them as disturbing the status quo or threatening the orders of the world with a message of another kingdom. Christians should avoid trouble as much as possible and live peaceful and quiet lives (1 Timothy 2:2). A good way to avoid trouble is to develop good relationships with people, even those who accuse us. When possible, avoid trouble.
When interpreted eschatologically with Jesus’ second coming, the story warns the crowds to make things right with God before they appear before the judgment seat of God. As Paul wrote, “Now is the acceptable time, now is the day of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:3). The choice about our eternity must be made in this life.
Although the exact application of this short parable is unclear, one possible message is the need to be reconciled with God and other people. There will come a point when our actions or inactions will be called to account. These verses have a strong relational application for both our life on earth and eternity.
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