What is the meaning of justification in Christian theology?

In Christian theology, justification is a judicial act by which God declares the believer as righteous on the basis of faith in Christ Jesus. This declaration stems from the perfect righteousness of Christ being imputed to the believer as outlined in Romans 5:1, which states that we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Justification is not based on any works or merits of our own; rather, it hinges solely on Christ's sacrificial death and resurrection. This truth provides believers with assurance of their status before God and underscores the grace alone principle, which is central to the Reformed faith.