Paul preached in Damascus for a short time and then spent three years away from people before he went to Jerusalem to meet with the Apostles. He met with opposition from the Jews but also the church in Jerusalem until Barnabas built bridges between Paul and the Apostles. He had to leave Damascus and then Jerusalem and went to Caesarea and then Tarsus.

Following the martyrdom of Stephen, Saul led the persecution of the church in Jerusalem and many Christians left and went to Judea and Samaria. Philip begins his work as an evangelist and many Samaritans believe.

One of the most important aspects of church community life is their care for the poor and specifically here, widows. Seven men were elected to oversee this more organised giving to the poor. A summary statement expresses the growth of the church and its spread despite setbacks.