Union with Christ is essential because it is through this relationship that we are declared righteous and receive salvation.
Union with Christ is a core tenet of Reformed theology, emphasizing that our standing before God is founded upon our relationship with Jesus. Scripture indicates that all the righteousness we possess comes from our being in Christ. This idea is articulated in Romans 5, where the Apostle Paul explains that just as we were made sinners through Adam, we are made righteous through Christ. Therefore, being united with Him ensures that what He achieved—perfect obedience and fulfillment of the law—is credited to us, allowing us to stand righteous before God.
Scripture References:
Romans 5, Philippians 3:9, John 17:24
Commentary