Why is it important for believers to understand true righteousness?

In Matthew 5:20, Jesus declares that unless one's righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, they will not enter the Kingdom of Heaven. This statement radically redefines righteousness, emphasizing that it is not merely about external actions but about the condition of the heart. True righteousness, as presented in Scripture, is embodied in Christ. Believers must grasp that their own efforts cannot attain the holiness required by God; it is only through faith in Christ's perfect righteousness that one is justified. This realization is crucial in understanding sovereign grace, highlighting the necessity of grace apart from works, as encapsulated in Ephesians 2:8-9.