Because of me you will be brought before governors and kings, to bear witness to them and to the Gentiles.
Jesus tells the disciples that their faith will lead to their being forced to stand before high authorities—governors and kings—who may treat them with hostility. The phrase “because of me” shows that the disciples’ faithfulness and service to Jesus can place them in dangerous situations where they will have to give an answer for their faith. On the other hand, such situations will create an opportunity for them to stand in the position of witness before both rulers and Gentiles, and to openly show God’s power and saving love.