6. “Do you see these stones? The time is coming when not one of them will be left in place. They will all be knocked down.”
7. Some people asked, “Teacher, when will all this happen? How can we know when these things are about to take place?”
8. Jesus replied:Don't be fooled by those who will come and claim to be me. They will say, “I am Christ!” and “Now is the time!” But don't follow them.
9. When you hear about wars and riots, don't be afraid. These things will have to happen first, but that isn't the end.
10. Nations will go to war against one another, and kingdoms will attack each other.
11. There will be great earthquakes, and in many places people will starve to death and suffer terrible diseases. All sorts of frightening things will be seen in the sky.
12. Before all this happens, you will be arrested and punished. You will be tried in your meeting places and put in jail. Because of me you will be placed on trial before kings and governors.
13. But this will be your chance to tell about your faith.
14. Don't worry about what you will say to defend yourselves.
15. I will give you the wisdom to know what to say. None of your enemies will be able to oppose you or to say that you are wrong.
16. You will be betrayed by your own parents, brothers, family, and friends. Some of you will even be killed.
17. Because of me, you will be hated by everyone.
18. But don't worry!
19. You will be saved by being faithful to me.
20. When you see Jerusalem surrounded by soldiers, you will know that it will soon be destroyed.
21. If you are living in Judea at that time, run to the mountains. If you are in the city, leave it. And if you are out in the country, don't go back into the city.