Several studies have focused on the phrase ἐν Χριστῷ, which is generally regarded to be language of central concern for the theme of union with Christ. This is, then, a natural place with which to begin our analysis of Paul’s language. Furthermore, it has been commonplace to treat ἐν Χριστῷ as a technical formula in Paul’s usage. While this understanding of the phrase requires scrutiny, it means that it will be prudent to examine the precise phrase in
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