How the imputed righteousness of Christ changes everything

"He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him" (II Corinthians 5:21, NASB).

This is a classic verse on what some theologians have called "double imputation." Christ has died and risen for us. Our sin was imputed - attributed, applied, counted - to Him. And His righteousness has been imputed -attributed, applied, counted - to us. 

These are important truths. We need to embrace and apply them. Once we understand that we have been totally forgiven AND given the righteousness of Christ, we can live up to who Christ has made us to be. 

Now, how do we understand these truths? And how can we teach them to others, especially our children? Perhaps the following illustration might help you seize these truths for yourself and then share them with others. 

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You've been invited to the celebration at the King's palace. There’s a party in the King's house. But all you have are rags to wear. Your rags make a statement that what you really deserve is prison.

Why? Your clothes are merely outward symbols of the inward reality about who you are. You can't go to the King’s celebration dressed in rags. You do not qualify to enter. You’ve dishonored the King. You’ve rebelled against Him. You will be sentenced to a lifetime imprisonment.

On your way to the prison, a Stranger intercepts your route and stops the guards. He says, "Take Me instead. I will suffer in his place. I will go to prison for him." The Stranger looks in your eyes and says, "Give Me your rags. I’ll wear your clothes. And you can take My robe. It’s yours. Here, wear My robe."

His robe is spotless, flawless, beautiful. You are amazed, humbled, speechless.

Now, you make your way to the King’s palace. You enter the King's court. The King gives you an audience. "Who are you?" He says.

You reply, "I am no one, my Lord. I am a rebel, a law–breaker. I was on my way to prison dressed in dirty rags that reflected my rebellious heart."

The King nods knowingly, motions for the guards to take you away, then looks at you and says, "Wait. I recognize that robe. Where did you get it?" You say, "A Stranger – the most kind, the most gracious, the most generous, and the most loving One – gave me this robe."

And the King smiles and says, "I know that robe. It's my Son's robe. If my Son loves you, I do, too. You are welcome to stay here with Me forevermore. You are no longer my enemy. We are at peace. Welcome to the party, my friend."