What does justification mean in Christian theology?

Justification is a legal term in Christian theology indicating the act by which God declares a sinner to be righteous on the basis of faith in Jesus Christ. This doctrine emphasizes that no one can be justified by their works or merit; rather, it is solely through the imputed righteousness of Christ that believers are seen as just before God. Romans 5:1 states, 'Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,' highlighting the importance of faith as the means by which justification is received. The work of Christ, involving His life, sacrificial death, and resurrection, establishes the foundation upon which believers are justified, separate from any human effort.