This is another in a lengthening line of Jesus' I'm telling you this beforehand statements to help us understand what will be happening and what to help up keep the faith in tough times. This time why the world doesn't treat Christians very well.
So roll up your sleeves, put your mind in gear, be totally ready to receive the gift that’s coming when Jesus arrives. Don’t lazily slip back into those old grooves of evil, doing just what you feel like doing. You didn’t know any better then; you do now. As obedient children, let yourselves be pulled into a way of life shaped by God’s life, a life energetic and blazing with holiness. God said, “I am holy; you be holy. [1 Peter 1:13-16]