Why is the righteousness of God important for Christians?

For Christians, the righteousness of God is foundational because it establishes the standard by which we must be measured to enter the kingdom of God. Matthew 5:20 states that only those whose righteousness exceeds that of the Pharisees will enter the kingdom. This underscores the necessity of divine righteousness, which is bestowed upon believers through faith in Jesus Christ. According to Romans 10:1-4, our efforts to establish our own righteousness are inadequate; instead, we must rely wholly on the righteousness of God. This understanding not only affects our salvation but informs our daily walk in holiness and obedience.