What is imparted righteousness?

Imparted righteousness is a theological concept that refers to the idea that when a person becomes a Christian, God imparts (or gives) them righteousness as a gift.

This concept is rooted in the belief that humanity is inherently sinful because of the first sin committed by Adam and Eve, and therefore, without God's intervention, we cannot obtain righteousness on our own. However, through faith in Jesus Christ, God imputes his righteousness to us and transforms us, making us new creations in Christ.

This imparted righteousness is seen as distinct from imputed righteousness, which refers to the legal declaration of righteousness that believers receive because of Christ's atoning work on the cross.

Imparted righteousness is often contrasted with the concept of earned righteousness, which suggests that we can earn righteousness through our own efforts and good works. Proponents of imparted righteousness argue that this idea is contrary to biblical teaching, which emphasizes that righteousness is a gift from God and not something that can be earned.