Albert Barnes' Notes on the Whole Bible - Mark 13:9
Take heed to yourselves - Be cautious that no man deceive you; or, take care of your lives, not to run into unnecessary danger.To councils - The higher ecclesiastical courts of the Jews, including the Sanhedrin, or great council of the nation.Rulers and kings - Referring to Roman officers.For a testimony against them - Rather to bear testimony to them, or to be witnesses “before them” of the truth. This was” for the sake” of Jesus, or because they were attached to him; and God would overrule it... read more
The Pulpit Commentary - Mark 13:10
And the gospel must first be preached unto all the nations . St. Matthew ( Matthew 24:14 ) says it shall be preached "in the whole world, for a testimony unto all the nations" ( ἐν ὅλῃ τῇ οἰκουμένῃ εἰς μαρτύριον ). This literally took place, as far as the inhabited world was concerned at that time, before the destruction of Jerusalem. St. Paul ( Romans 10:18 ) reminds us that "their sound is gone out into all lands, and their words unto the ends of the world;" and he tells... read more