What does it mean that Jesus is a friend of sinners?

When Jesus is described as a friend of sinners (Matthew 11:19), it underscores His profound grace and mercy. Jesus seeks out those who are marginalized and broken, offering them connection and healing. This is not a friendship that condones sin but rather one that extends love towards the sinner, inviting them into relationship and restoration. This is further evidenced by Romans 5:8, which states that God demonstrates His love by Christ dying for us while we were still sinners, emphasizing that Jesus' friendship is transformative, calling us out of our despair into His grace.