Why is the doctrine of justification by the Spirit important for Christians?

The doctrine of justification by the Spirit is pivotal because it highlights the Holy Spirit's role in confirming Christ's divinity and His work as our Savior. As articulated in 1 Timothy 3:16, Christ was 'justified by the Spirit,' meaning that His identity and mission were affirmed through the powerful acts of the Holy Spirit. Consequently, for Christians, this doctrine emphasizes that our faith is not based on our merits but solely on the redemptive work of Christ, making it essential for believers to understand their complete dependence on God’s grace for salvation.