Jesus makes it clear that persecution will cause some to forsake him. He made a similar statement in Matthew 13:1–58 where those who have no root fall away when trouble or persecution comes
(Matthew 13:20–21). Apostasy from fellow disciples is sadly something which must be expected (1 Timothy 4:1–3; 1 John 2:18–19).1
10 And then many will fall awayand betray one another and hate one another.