What does it mean that God cannot condemn the innocent?

In Romans 8:33-34, it's affirmed that God cannot condemn those who are justified by Christ. This highlights the profound reality of our salvation: it is not based on our merit but solely on Christ's atoning work. God, being perfectly just, cannot punish the innocent, those who have been made righteous through faith in Jesus. This assurance is vital for believers, as it promises not only forgiveness but also acceptance before the throne of grace. The theology of substitutionary atonement assures us that the penalty for sin has been fully paid by Christ, thus freeing us from condemnation. We stand justified in God's sight, and our advocate, Christ, represents us before God with an intercessory plea that reflects His accomplished work on the cross.