What is the imputed righteousness of Christ?

The imputed righteousness of Christ is the doctrine that asserts that believers are counted as righteous before God not based on their own works, but through faith in Christ. Romans 4:5 states that 'to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.' This means that when one places their faith in Christ, His perfect righteousness is credited to their account. 2 Corinthians 5:21 elaborates that 'for he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.' This foundational truth is essential for understanding salvation, highlighting that our standing before God is solely through Christ's work.