Chapter 3, Verse 10 “…that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,”
There is a bit of now and not yet in this verse. Paul wants to know Jesus in the here and now, in his everyday existence. He also has his sights of the resurrection from the now and a promise of the life with Jesus yet to come. Paul understands the power of the concept of the resurrection. He has made it known that if there is no resurrection then believers are to be pitied, for they cling to righteousness for nothing.
Living for Jesus in this life gives life true meaning for Paul. It has become the very essence of his being. Paul understands its purpose. It is to die in Jesus so that he is a part of the resurrection of Jesus. Paul understands the cost of knowing Jesus in that way will not be cheap. He looks forward to suffering like Jesus, to die like Jesus. The reward in the not yet is so superior to the suffering of the now to Paul.
Task for Today: Do you truly know Jesus to the point of joining His suffering? Do you want to be a part of the promised resurrection? Living with Jesus is the only means of dying like Jesus and being raised like Jesus. Does your following Christ cost you anything? Are you willing to suffer? Just some things to think about today.
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