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In Luke 20: 35 we read of some who shall be `accounted worthy to obtain' that
world, and the resurrection which is OUT (ek) from the dead, that they shall be equal to
the angels. So that this `out-resurrection' is associated with being `accounted worthy'. In
other words we are being prepared to accept the idea that `out-resurrection', if it be used
elsewhere, may be associated with a `prize', and this is just what we find.
In Phil. 3: 10-14 we read:
"If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. Not as though I had
already attained . . . . ."
Now if the Apostle Paul was not sure that he would be included in the resurrection of
the dead, what hope have we? Besides, the words `attain', `not already perfect', `that I
may apprehend', prepare us for the fact that we have before us not a calling and a
standing in grace, but a race and a prize.
And so we find this preposition ek occurs as in the passages quoted above.
"If by any means I might attain unto the exanastasis, the out-resurrection, ek nekron,
out from the dead" (best texts).
Sometimes it is hopeful to consider any parallels that exist elsewhere, and the epistle
to the Hebrews and the Book of the Revelation provide these parallels. Heb. 12:, in its
opening verses, shows that in Heb. 11: there has been some element of race and prize.
"Let us run with patience the race that is set before us", and so the reference to a `better
resurrection' in Heb. 11: 35 falls into line with `the out-resurrection' of Phil. 3:
Philippians is balanced by II Timothy, as Ephesians is balanced by Colossians, and
recognition of this correspondence is helpful.
"Try the things that differ" (Phil. 1: 10 margin)
"Rightly dividing the Word of Truth" (II Tim. 2: 15).
"The prize of the high calling" (Phil. 3: 14).
"Henceforth a crown . . . . . at that day" (II Tim. 4: 8).
"Having a desire to depart" (Phil. 1: 23).
"The time of my departure is at hand" (II Tim. 4: 6).
"I count not myself to have apprehended" (Phil. 3: 13).
"I have finished my course" (II Tim. 4: 7).
"Not . . . . . already perfect" (Phil. 3: 12).
There is also a parallel to be found between Philippians and Hebrews.
"Our citizenship (conversation) is in heaven; from whence also we look for the
Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ, Who shall change this body of our humiliation, that it may
be fashioned like unto His body of glory" (Phil. 3: 20, 21).
"He looked for a city" (Heb. 11: 10).
"He hath prepared for them a city" (11: 16).
"A better resurrection" (11: 35).
"The spirits of just men made perfect" (12: 23).
"Let us go on unto perfection" (6: 1).