The expression with Christ
(syn Christo) is frequently found in Paul’s epistles (Romans 6:4; Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 2:6; Colossians 2:12–13; Colossians 3:4). With this expression the apostle involves the believers in the death and resurrection of Christ. Through faith, Christians share in the merits of Christ’s suffering, and so his resurrection and glorification also imply their own future resurrection and glory. They will go with him and join him in his heavenly kingdom. In Philippians 1:23, however, the reference is to being
with Christ. Here the expression with Christ
takes on a very personal meaning. Connectedness through faith now morphs into a real being together.
Paul will no longer be a citizen of the kingdom of heaven who still remains on earth; instead, he will then be united with his Lord and Saviour. The distance disappears: there is the unity of being together (just as the disciples, who were allowed to eat and drink with Jesus on earth, already experienced it during his humiliation). In an entirely new and unprecedented way and to a degree that has never been experienced before, the apostle will enjoy fellowship with Christ. Greijdanus has described this as follows: to be personally with the Lord, to see Him, to share in His communion, to stay in His presence.
1,2
23 I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better.