But before all this, men will arrest you and persecute you, and hand you over to synagogues and prisons and have you brought before kings and governors on my account.

But Peter and John answered them, "You must decide whether it is right in the sight of God to obey you instead of him,

They were convinced by him, and they called the apostles in and had them flogged, and warned them not to speak about the name of Jesus, and then let them go.

We had just been through ill-treatment and insults at Philippi, as you remember, but, in the face of great opposition, we took courage by the help of our God, and told you God's good news.

For the Spirit God has given us is a spirit not of timidity but of power, love, and self-discipline.

So that we can confidently say, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can men do to me?"

Do not be afraid of what you are going to suffer. See! The devil is going to put some of you into prison to be tested there, and for ten days to endure persecution. Prove faithful even unto death and I will give you the crown of life.

An

This is a proof of God's justice in judging, and it is to prove you worthy of the Kingdom of God, for the sake of which you are suffering,

Dear friends, do not be surprised that a test of fire is being applied to you, as though a strange thing were happening to you,

And that

And all mankind is to see how God can save!"

"Understand then that this message of God's salvation has been sent to the heathen. They will listen to it!"

General references

It will all lead to your testifying.