Mike,

That was how I was taught  when I was first saved.

Then after about 15 years, a question came, which I was unable to sufficiently answer.

Romans 12:5 So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.

Romans 16:7 Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellowprisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me.

What does it then mean to be in Christ before Paul?