What does the Bible say about Jesus being the friend of sinners?

In Matthew 11:19, Jesus is described as a friend of publicans and sinners, which highlights His willingness to associate with those who are marginalized and in need of grace. The Gospel fundamentally encapsulates this idea that Jesus did not come to save the righteous, but sinners (Luke 5:32). This shows His profound love and mercy, as He is not deterred by our failures, but approaches us in our brokenness, offering salvation. Hence, the truth that Jesus is a friend to sinners underscores the nature of the Gospel as a 'sinner's religion' where salvation is based entirely on what Christ has done rather than on human efforts.