Thematic Bible: Association with publicans and sinners

So when the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, "Why does your teacher eat with taxgatherers and sinners?" When Jesus heard it he said, "Those who are strong have no need of a doctor, but those who are ill. Go and learn the meaning of this word, I care for mercy not for sacrifice. For I have not come to call just men but sinners."