How do we know that Jesus came to save sinners?

In Matthew 9:12-13, Jesus clarifies His purpose by saying, 'For I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.' This illustrates that His mission is not for those who perceive themselves as morally upright, but for those who acknowledge their need for a savior. The implication is that self-righteousness blinds individuals to their own spiritual need. By associating with 'publicans and sinners', Jesus is demonstrating that the gospel is for the broken and the lost who cry out for mercy—the very essence of His redemptive work on the cross.