Why is union with Christ important for Christians?

Union with Christ stands as the cornerstone of a believer's identity and spiritual life. Through faith, Christians are united with Jesus, which means that His death, resurrection, and righteousness are applied to them. This union is emphasized in Galatians 2:20, where Paul states, 'I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me.' Such a relationship means believers are no longer enslaved by sin but empowered to live righteously. Furthermore, this union assures Christians of eternal security, as stated in Romans 8:38-39, affirming that nothing can separate us from the love of God. The transformational aspect of this union results in a life that seeks to glorify God and bear fruit for His kingdom.