Bible Question:
Phil 3:10,11 Paul states that he wants to know Christ to the extent of sharing Christ's sufferings and becoming like Christ in his death, somehow attain the resurrection from the dead. In context with the paragraph written, what does Paul mean becoming like Christ in his death? Does he want to suffer? |
Bible Answer: In the context of the paragraph, Paul is expressing his great love for Christ Jesus. Paul knows that God's goal for him (and for all of us) is to be conformed to the image of Christ (Romans 8:29), and that such transformation comes only by way of the Cross. Paul's former life was one of legalistic righteousness, and he was a master of it. But he discovered all of that to be "counted as loss for the sake of Christ". Not for the knowledge of Christ, or the teaching of Christ, but for Christ Himself. Paul goes on to say that he considers all things to be loss in view of "knowing Christ my lord". Paul is not after knowledge ABOUT Jesus, but he is wanting Jesus Himself. He is wanting to gain Christ, and to know the power of His resurrection. He wants to exit this life as Jesus did: by the will of God, and with God's approval when he passes into His presence. Do you not want the same? Is it important to you that Jesus says to you, "Well done good and faithful servant?" I believe this is what Paul is talking about. Paul's devotion to Jesus is complete: he wants it to increase. He continues with "I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." (verse 14) And he encourages you (and me) to have the same attitude. Does Paul want to suffer? I believe only if his sufferings will bring glory to Christ Jesus and His coming kingdom. Here is Paul's dedication to Christ in a nutshell: "Christ in you the hope of glory" Col 1:27b. May it be yours as well. |