Why is righteousness important in salvation?

In the context of judgment and salvation, righteousness is the standard by which God judges humanity, as noted in Acts 17:31. This righteousness exceeds human morality and can only be obtained through faith in Jesus Christ. The imputed righteousness of Christ means that believers are judged based on Christ's perfect righteousness, not their own flawed efforts. Consequently, understanding righteousness emphasizes the importance of Christ’s atoning work, as it assures believers that they stand before God clothed in the righteousness of Christ, which is necessary for salvation.