Imputed Righteousness and Union with Christ

Abstract

This essay argues that the believer’s righteousness is best understood through continuing participation in Christ. It examines Philippians 3:9, Romans 3:21, and 2 Corinthians 5:21 in relation to Paul’s language of union and the scriptural background of divine righteousness. Drawing on Morna Hooker’s account of interchange and N. T. Wright’s covenantal interpretation, it questions whether these passages require the imputation of Christ’s record of obedience. The essay distinguishes that exegetical question from the claim that justification is irreversible. Reformed theology also affirms union with Christ, and a participatory account does not by itself establish conditional security. The argument therefore considers the warnings to abide in Christ and continue in faith as evidence that saving participation can be forfeited. It concludes that righteousness remains God’s gift, received through faith, while its continued possession belongs to the believer’s continuing relation to Christ. This account preserves present assurance without treating a past reception of righteousness as sufficient grounds for security after the abandonment of faith.

Keywords: imputed righteousness; union with Christ; justification; participation; righteousness of God; Pauline theology; apostasy; assurance