Definition: But beware of men: for they will deliver you up to the councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 10:17. It’s a pretty serious warning, but it’s about protecting believers. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is telling us that Christians – those who follow Jesus – need to be careful and vigilant because men (and sometimes groups of men) will try to harm or persecute them. It’s not just a general warning; it specifically mentions “conquests” and “scourging.” Let's unpack it piece by piece: "But beware of men:" This is the core message – be aware of potential threats. "...for they will deliver you up to the councils..." “Councils” in this context refers to groups of people who are trying to silence or oppose Christians. Think of it like a group of people actively working to stop your faith and beliefs. "...and they will scourge you in their synagogues:" “Scourging” is a harsh word – it means to beat, harass, or even kill someone. It's happening in the synagogues , which are places where Christians gathered for worship and fellowship. What does this mean practically? This verse isn’t just about general threats; it suggests that men might actively try to: Stop your meetings: They could try to prevent you from gathering with others. Discourage your beliefs: They might try to convince people not to follow Jesus. Harass and threaten you: This could involve insults, intimidation, or even physical violence. Important Context - It’s about Protection The Bible often uses this verse to remind believers that they're not alone. Jesus says, "My kingdom is not of this world." This verse emphasizes the importance of standing firm in your faith and protecting yourselves from those who would try to harm you. It’s a call to vigilance and prayer. In short, it’s a warning to stay safe and steadfast in your faith. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some examples of how this verse might be used in real life?