What does it mean for Christ to be our righteousness?

The concept of Christ as our righteousness is foundational in Reformed theology, indicating that believers are justified before God solely on the basis of Christ's righteousness imputed to them. This is captured in 2 Corinthians 5:21, where it states that God made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. Therefore, in Christ, believers are clothed in His perfect righteousness, which is essential for their acceptance before a holy God. This not only serves as the basis for justification but also empowers Christians to live righteously, as they are united with Christ in His death and resurrection.