What does it mean that Christ's righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the Pharisees?

In Matthew 5:20, Jesus notes that except our righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, we shall not enter the kingdom of heaven. This highlights the inadequacy of self-righteousness, as the Pharisees relied on outward actions rather than true inward holiness. Christ's righteousness is complete and perfect, given to believers through faith (Philippians 3:9). When God looks upon a believer, He sees Christ's righteousness, which far surpasses any human effort. This profound truth assures believers of their standing before God, fully accepted because of Christ's obedience and not their own.