c. The surpassing excellence of Christ (3:8-9)

Christ is now Paul’s “magnificent obsession.” Note the “intensely personal” (Beare) expression: “Christ Jesus my Lord.” Knowing [him] is the surpassing greatness. This knowledge (3:8, 10) is not merely theoretical or theological; it is experiential. Paul yearns to be found in him, having God’s righteousness. Again we see a key concept of Paul: in him. To be in Christ by faith is to be in the sphere of God’s redemptive actions. The emphasis on righteousness (rightness with God) through faith—union with Christ is the core of Paul’s religion and the evangelical Protestant principle.