What does the Bible say about the nature of sin and righteousness?

The nature of sin is a critical theme in scripture, underlining humanity's moral failure and inability to achieve righteousness on its own. Romans 3:23 declares, 'For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.' This universality of sin establishes the need for a Savior. The Bible contrasts this with the righteousness that is attainable only through faith in Christ. In 2 Corinthians 5:21, we find that Christ was made sin for us, enabling believers to be made the righteousness of God in Him. This underscores that righteousness is not inherent in us but is imputed to us by faith, through the grace of God.