What does 'imputation' refer to in the context of Christ's righteousness?

In the context of Christ's righteousness, 'imputation' signifies the theological concept of attributing or crediting Christ's righteousness to believers. This doctrine teaches that, through faith in Christ, the perfect righteousness of Jesus is accounted to the believer, allowing them to be declared righteous before God despite their inherent sinfulness. This is not about the believer's own deeds or efforts but rather about the transformative power of faith in Jesus Christ that justifies the individual in the eyes of God.

The other interpretations do not capture the essence of imputation in this theological framework. Counting good deeds toward salvation, for instance, focuses on human actions rather than divine grace imparted through Christ. Categorizing sins in spiritual practice or assigning blame for one's sins emphasizes judgment or condemnation, whereas imputation is about the grace and mercy offered through Christ’s sacrifice and righteousness. Thus, the correct understanding encapsulated by this answer illustrates how believers can stand righteous based on Christ's work rather than their own.