Saul takes the initiative in expanding persecution beyond Jerusalem to Damascus. According to the Jewish historian, Josephus, Damascus had a large Jewish population.1 It is possible that some believers had fled here. The letters which Saul requested from the high priest Caiaphas would be given to synagogue leaders or to magistrates in the city of Damascus.2 Synagogue leaders would have respected the office of the high priest and would have been happy to help Saul on his mission by pointing out those who had gone to join the Way.3
1 But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest