On my return from the court of Antipas she had gone into Batanaea to Philip's court, where was her sister.

Once again I was back in Jerusalem, and, though it was no necessity of my business to see Philip, who, though weak, was faithful to Roman will, I journeyed into Batanaea in the hope of meeting with Miriam.
Then there was my trip into Idumaea.

Also, I travelled into Syria in obedience to the command of Sulpicius Quirinius, who, as imperial legate, was curious of my first-hand report of affairs in Jerusalem.

Thus, travelling wide and much, I had opportunity to observe the strangeness of the Jews who were so madly interested in God.

It was their peculiarity.
Not content with leaving such matters to their priests, they were themselves for ever turning priests and preaching wherever they could find a listener.