Verse 58
58. Out of the city In accordance with the law that malefactors should not be executed within the city. Tradition as early as the fifteenth century has given the name of St. Stephen to the gate through which it supposes him to have passed, opening over the Kedron toward Gethsemane. Earlier tradition designated the Damascus Gate, opening on the north to the road that leads to the city of that name. To a spectator on any northeastern height, the crowd through either gate would have been visible.
Witnesses According to Jewish law, the witnesses who slay the man by their testimony must execute him with their hands. This was held as a check upon false accusation.
Laid down their clothes Putting off their loose garments in order that they might perform the arduous task of hurling the huge stones, as prescribed for blasphemy.
Saul The first introduction of the name of one hereafter to be a most illustrious defender of the cause for which Stephen dies.
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