Final in a Study of Philippians 3:8-10
“That I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death” (Philippians 3:10).
Paul’s goal in maintaining a solid relationship in Jesus is three-fold, as he designates in this verse.
The apostle wants to “know Him,” an expression that goes beyond academic knowledge of Jesus Christ. It carries with it the idea that the true believer will allow his knowledge of Christ to transform him—that is, to cause him to conform his life to the image of Jesus.
Jesus died on the cross and was resurrected, proving His relationship with God and proving the power of God over everything—even death. We reenact His death, His burial, and His resurrection in baptism, the act that allows us to have a relationship with Him, thus showing its power.
Paul’s own suffering allowed him to have “fellowship” with the sufferings of Jesus, even though Jesus’ sufferings were more extreme. Paul’s sufferings were only temporary. Like Paul, our sufferings today are but nothing compared to the reward that awaits the faithful.
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