Philippians 3:10,11

The Ultimate Goa1: Knowing Christ

The apostle's ultimate goal was knowing Christ. "Know" in scripture usually suggest an intimate relation with someone (see Genesis 4:1). The Christian's purpose is to know Christ, not merely facts about him. Christ's resurrection proved he was the Son of God (Romans 1:4). It is the basis of the Christian's appeal to obey him (Acts 2:22-36; Acts 13:30-39). The only way anyone can know the power of his resurrection is by being buried with him and raised to walk a new life (Romans 6:31; 8:10-13). The Christian's salvation and hope depend on Christ's resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:17). His followers have fellowship, which is to share or have in common, Christ's suffering (1 Peter 4:13; 2 Corinthians 1:5-7; 2 Timothy 2:12). Sharing with Christ in suffering for righteousness will help one to constantly be dead to sin, as Christ died for sin (1 Peter 3:10; Galatians 2:20.)

Paul recognized the danger of failing to remain faithful (Hebrews 3:14; 1 Corinthians 9:27), so he used the word "if". He knew all would be raised (2 Corinthians 5:10; John 5:28-29). His goal of attaining the resurrection must refer to his longing for the resurrection of the righteous to go be with the Lord (1 Peter 3:11; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18.)