Why is it important to rely on Christ for righteousness?

Biblical righteousness cannot be achieved through human efforts; it is a gift from God through Christ. Romans 3:24 explains, 'Being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.' This means that all believers are declared righteous not by their deeds, but solely through faith in Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the law on their behalf. Failing to rely on Christ leads to a reliance on self, which the Scriptures indicate is ultimately futile and leads to condemnation.