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Absolutely I understand it.

Jesus asked his disciples if when he sent them off without shoes, a purse or a cloak did they lack for anything.

They answered that they indeed lacked nothing (for HE was with them).

So then Jesus said "But now, whoever has a purse, let him take it, and likewise a wallet. Whoever has no sword, let him sell his cloak, and buy a sword. For I tell you that this which is written must still be fulfilled in me:
‘He was counted with the lawless.’ For that which concerns me has an end." (so now that they have a purse and wallet they should sell their cloak to buy a sword to defend it; for HE will not be with them much longer.)

The swords were for defense; and for Jesus to be counted among the transgressors. They were not for resisting arrest. Jesus would have his disciples "render unto Caesar" and not break the law- showing once again that Jesus was consistent in his morality.

"For he who lives by the sword shall surely perish by the sword."

"...For that which concerns me has an end."

Interesting how Jesus references an end. Does that mean there was a beginning? If he controls the end, would he not control the beginning?