Let’s look at this closely, this is Jesus speaking to His disciples.

Go not into the way of the Gentiles but rather to Israel, the First commission, the second commission was for all the world. . . and as you go, preach, saying, the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely you have received, freely give. Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses, Nor scrip for your journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat. And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when you depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet. (meaning it is unworthy)

After He spoke these words, He also reminded them that there will be persecution.

Now, the questions of interest here are, who was He talking to, and what were their tasks?

To His disciples, He spoke.

The advocate for the mid trip rapture, or post trip, they will say, there is the evidence that we all will face persecution. However, take notice to the command of Christ, go out and preach the Gospel, He said.

Therefore, persecution shall befall those out there on a mission trip, a missionary and the likes. They are aware of the pending danger of persecution whenever they step out into the unknown. Nevertheless, their focus is never on the timing of the Rapture, rather to fulfil the call of the great commission, the preaching of the Gospel.

However, there are those who are not preaching the Gospel, neither are they winning souls for the kingdom. Yet, their focus has been on the timing of the Rapture. Rather than the reason for the event.

The persecution mentioned by Christ, is already happening, but to those who are fulfilling the great commission, Christ also said, and you shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake.

Such was the case of Andrew Brunson, the American pastor. While in a foreign land preaching the Gospel, he was arrested and imprisoned 2016, for years without a trial. At last, he was brought before the government of that country through their Judicial system, just as the Lord said.

Did Pastor Andrew Brunson experience persecutions for the qualification for the Rapture? No, these things happen to those who stands for that which is right. So then, everyone who proclaims the Gospel must be persecuted? Certainly not.

Persecution doesn't mean favoritism with God, neither is persecution the qualification for heaven. Jesus Christ is all it takes and His Blood for the Remission of sin.