These instructions were given primarily to the twelve Apostles. Doubtless, they understood them to mean that their mission was not to stay long in a place. As persecution arose, and the people were unwilling to hear their message, they were to go to other cities and villages. The time for their special testimony of the Kingdom at hand was limited. Soon the Son of Man would be presented as King, and the testing of the nation would reach its climax. This climax was reached when, at the end of his three and a half years' ministry, our Lord rode to them on the ass, as their King. He was not received (in harmony with the prophecy) and He declared their house henceforth to be left desolate. – Luke 13:35.