Jesus explicitly states in Luke 19:10 that He came to seek and save the lost, which assures us of His willingness to receive sinners.
Jesus' mission on earth was to interact with and save sinners, firmly established in Luke 19:10, where it is written, 'For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.' This bold declaration affirms that His compassion extends to all who recognize their spiritual need. Additionally, in Matthew 11:28, He invites the weary to come to Him for rest. The early church recognized this characteristic of Jesus, as the Pharisees remarked in Luke 15:2 that He 'receives sinners and eats with them.' This act of eating symbolizes a close relationship and acceptance that Jesus extends to those who come to Him with a repentant heart.
Scripture References:
Luke 19:10, Matthew 11:28, Luke 15:2, Luke 15:1-2
Commentary