Take heed to yourselves - Be cautious that no man deceive you; or, take care of your lives, not to run into unnecessary danger.
To councils - The higher ecclesiastical courts of the Jews, including the Sanhedrin, or great council of the nation.
Rulers and kings - Referring to Roman officers.
For a testimony against them - Rather to bear testimony to them, or to be witnesses “before them” of the truth. This was” for the sake” of Jesus, or because they were attached to him; and God would overrule it so that at the same time they should bear witness “to” the rulers of the truth, as was the case with Peter and John, Acts 4; with Stephen, Acts 6–7; and with Paul, Acts 23; Acts 24:24-25.