What does Philippians 3:10 mean?

Faith in Christ includes sharing in four aspects of Christ's life, which Paul addresses in verses 10 and 11. This verse provides the first three. First, knowing Jesus clearly involves the power of the resurrection. The resurrection of Jesus conquered death and provided the way to know the Lord.

Second, Paul notes the importance of sharing in "His sufferings." Many believers miss this trait, believing the Christian faith provides freedom from hardship. This is a common—false—teaching of modern motivational speakers who use biblical terminology in their speeches. Both Paul, and the rest of the early church, knew that living for Christ included sharing in both the joys and struggles of Christ. This sometimes means suffering. Paul personally endured hardship despite his faithful life spent serving Christ.

Paul also notes the concept of mimicking Christ in His death. Some see the idea of martyrdom in this verse. However, the focus is on becoming "like him" in death, not the method of death. Paul wants to die to the world of sin and temptation, so he can be fully transformed, in order to be like Christ. This is a sentiment he will mention again in verse 21.