During a recent study time in the book of Romans I saw something more clearly.
But now apart from the Law the righteousness of God has been manifested, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all those who believe: for their is no distinction; for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus; whom God displayed publicly as a propitiation in His blood through faith. This was to demonstrate His righteousness because in the forbearance of God He passed over sins previously committed; for the demonstration of His righteousness at the present time, so that He would be just and the justifier of the one who believes in Jesus. Romans 3:21-26
In this occasional letter Paul speaks of the new age that happened with the death and resurrection of Jesus. Before He came, humanity was under the schoolmaster of the Law. When Jesus came our way into right relationship to God was given by faith in Jesus. God in His righteous love imparted to sinful humanity His own righteousness. This is incredibly simple and profoundly complex at the same time. God gave us His righteousness in Jesus. Our part is to receive this unspeakable gift! Gift! The gift of God’s righteousness given to sinful humanity and all we must do is turn to Him and receive!! Whew