Why did Jesus say that He had come for the sinners and not for the righteous?

[Shri Anil asked: Jesus mentions in the Bible that He had not come to call the righteous, but sinners. Many people criticised Him for allowing sinners like tax collectors etc. to come near Him. Please enlighten us on this.]

Swami replied: It is quite logical that only a patient needs the doctor and not a healthy person. The purpose of the Incarnation is mainly to reform the sinners, who are the absolute majority within humanity. This point was expressed by Jesus and also Kṛṣṇa (Ahaṃ tvā sarvapāpebhyo…—Gītā).

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| Shri Datta Swami | Why did Jesus say that He had come for the sinners and not for the righteous? | Aham tvaa sarvapaapebhyo Gita Giita