Why is self-righteousness a barrier to knowing Christ?

The parable of the Pharisee and the publican in Luke 18 illustrates how self-righteousness can alienate individuals from God's grace. The Pharisee's trust in his own righteousness blinded him to his true spiritual condition, while the publican humbly sought mercy. As Paul relayed in Philippians 3, he learned that legalistic righteousness and self-reliance lead to losses in his pursuit of true righteousness found in Christ. Therefore, one must recognize that self-righteousness places confidence in one's own value instead of the sufficiency of Christ’s grace, hindering a genuine relationship with Him.