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.