New Testament
Luke 12:58
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When you're on your way to court with someone who has a case against you, do everything you can to settle it before you get there. Otherwise, they may drag you before the judge, the judge will hand you over to the officer, and the officer will throw you in prison.
Compare translations
When thou goest with thine adversary to the magistrate, as thou art in the way, give diligence that thou mayest be delivered from him; lest he hale thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and the officer cast thee into prison.
What Luke 12:58 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus advises that if you find yourself in a legal dispute on your way to court, it is wise to try to resolve the issue before reaching the judge. The implication is that settling matters amicably can prevent harsher consequences, such as being imprisoned. The verse highlights the importance of taking initiative to resolve conflicts and avoid escalation. It serves as a reminder that unresolved disputes can lead to more significant problems, and it encourages proactive behavior in seeking peace and reconciliation. This teaching emphasizes the value of relationships and the need to handle disagreements wisely, rather than allowing them to escalate into legal battles that can have serious repercussions.
How to apply Luke 12:58 to your life
This verse encourages us to address conflicts early and seek resolution before they escalate. In our daily lives, we should strive to communicate openly and find common ground with those we disagree with, preventing misunderstandings from turning into larger issues.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Luke 12:58
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Luke 12:58
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 12:58 mean?
Luke 12:58 advises individuals to settle disputes before reaching court. It emphasizes the importance of resolving conflicts amicably to avoid harsher consequences, such as imprisonment.
What is the meaning of 'adversary' in Luke 12:58?
In Luke 12:58, 'adversary' refers to someone who has a legal claim or dispute against you. This term highlights the need to address conflicts with those who oppose you before they escalate.
How can I apply Luke 12:58 in my life?
You can apply Luke 12:58 by addressing conflicts early and seeking resolution through open communication. This approach helps prevent misunderstandings from escalating into larger issues.
What themes are present in Luke 12:58?
Luke 12:58 presents themes of conflict resolution, proactive behavior, and the consequences of inaction. It highlights the value of reconciliation and the importance of handling disagreements wisely.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.