Before the disciples know where following Jesus will lead them, he tells them plainly that in his kingdom suffering comes before glory. Using the images of sheep, wolves, serpents, and doves, Jesus reminds his people who they are, what they will face, and how they are to live. Vulnerable as sheep, they are to be shrewd without being self-serving and pure without being naïve, bearing witness wherever they’re sent. Jesus who himself was handed over and led like a lamb to the slaughter provides for them, keeps them, and will come again to save and vindicate them.