Imputed righteousness is a theological concept central to Christian soteriology, particularly within Protestant traditions. It refers to the righteousness of Jesus Christ being credited to believers by faith, thereby justifying them before God. This doctrine is rooted in the belief that human beings, due to their sinful nature, are incapable of achieving righteousness on their own and require divine intervention for salvation.

Biblical Foundation

The concept of imputed righteousness is primarily derived from the writings of the Apostle Paul. In Romans 4:5-6 , Paul writes, "However, to the one who does not work, but believes in Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is credited as righteousness. And David speaks likewise of the blessedness of the man to whom God credits righteousness apart from works." Here, Paul emphasizes that righteousness is credited to individuals not based on their works but through faith in God.

Further, in 2 Corinthians 5:21 , Paul states, "God made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God." This verse underscores the exchange that takes place through Christ's atoning sacrifice: Christ takes on the sin of humanity, and in return, His righteousness is imputed to believers.

Theological Implications

Imputed righteousness is a cornerstone of the doctrine of justification by faith alone (sola fide), a principle that was pivotal during the Protestant Reformation. It asserts that believers are declared righteous before God solely on the basis of their faith in Jesus Christ, not on any merit of their own. This stands in contrast to the concept of infused righteousness, which suggests that righteousness is imparted and grows within a believer through cooperation with divine grace.

Old Testament Foreshadowing

The idea of imputed righteousness is foreshadowed in the Old Testament. Genesis 15:6 states, "Abram believed the LORD, and it was credited to him as righteousness." This passage is frequently cited in the New Testament as an example of faith being counted as righteousness, illustrating that the principle of imputed righteousness is consistent with God's dealings with humanity throughout biblical history.

Role in Sanctification

While imputed righteousness pertains to justification, it also has implications for sanctification. The believer, having been declared righteous, is called to live out this righteousness in daily life. Philippians 3:9 reflects this dual aspect: "and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness from God on the basis of faith." The imputed righteousness of Christ serves as both the foundation and motivation for a life of holiness and obedience.

Contemporary Relevance

In contemporary Christian theology, imputed righteousness remains a vital doctrine, affirming the sufficiency of Christ's work for salvation and the believer's secure standing before God. It provides assurance to Christians that their acceptance by God is not contingent upon their own righteousness but rests entirely on the perfect righteousness of Christ, which is theirs through faith.