Why is understanding righteousness important for Christians?

Righteousness is a fundamental theme in Scripture, particularly in the book of Romans. Paul articulates in Romans 1:17 that the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith, and the just shall live by faith. For Christians, understanding righteousness is essential because it addresses our sinful nature and our inability to achieve righteousness on our own. Only through faith in Jesus Christ, who embodies God's perfect righteousness, can we stand justified before God. This understanding cultivates humility and dependence upon Christ's finished work rather than our own efforts, reinforcing the centrality of grace and faith in the Christian life.