58 As you are going with your adversary to the magistrate, try hard to be reconciled on the way, or your adversary may drag you off to the judge, and the judge turn you over to the officer, and the officer throw you into prison.
Context tells us the meaning and application of this passage. Jesus is speaking to the crowd (v54) warning them about not understanding the critical moment they are living through. It is a moment of decision with eternal consequences. They are missing the obvious indications of this catastrophic event, and they are right in front of them. Jesus is urging the crowd to repent. He is calling them back to honesty. This is explained from an earthly perspective. If there is a chance to stop judgment from happening, then take the opportunity. Don’t wait until the judge has lowered the gavel. Make it right before that moment. Reconcile before you go to divorce court. Pay for the damages you caused, rather than trying to escape the consequences. Take hold of the truth and abide by it. How much more true is this in connection to the Lord! We need to reconcile now while we still have the chance. There will come a moment when it is too late. Don’t wait until that “too late” moment. Repent now and start the journey back.
The Arnold Journey 