Matthew Poole and continuators on Acts 9:26

26 And when Saul was come to Jerusalem he assayed to joyn himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple.

To be admitted to intimate fellowship and communion with the Disciples.

Paul was sufficiently known by name and face at Ierusalem, and many had felt his rage.

But how could the Disciples be ignorant of his conversion so long, if it was three years after? as it seems by Gal. 1.17. To answer which, may be considered, 1. The great distance betwixt Ierusalem and Damascus, (six days journey) 2. The little correspondence betwixt the Kings of those places, Herod and Aretas. 3. The persecution which was at Ierusalem, might hinder the Converts of Damascus from going thither. 4. Paul might have spent a great part of the three years in his journey amongst the Arabians, of which before.

Marginal references: Chap. 22.17.