Mat 9:12-13 | MHM | STEP | v. 12 : But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. Jesus replied that healthy people do not need a doctor, but sick people do. He explained that he came to help those who know they are sinners and need God’s mercy, not those who think they are already good enough (Matthew 9:12 ).

‏ Matthew 9:12-13

v. 12: But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. Jesus replied that healthy people do not need a doctor, but sick people do. He explained that he came to help those who know they are sinners and need God’s mercy, not those who think they are already good enough (Matthew 9:12 ^a).

v. 13: But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. Jesus told the Pharisees to learn the meaning of God’s words in Scripture: I will have mercy, and not sacrifice (Hosea 6:6 ^b). God wants people to show mercy to others, not just perform religious rituals. Jesus explained that his mission was to call sinners to repentance, not to praise those who think they are righteous (Matthew 9:13 ^c).

In summary, Matthew 9:9–13 shows Jesus’ compassion for sinners and his call to repentance. He welcomes those others reject and teaches that God desires mercy more than outward religious actions. We should be willing to follow Jesus, as Matthew did, and show kindness to everyone, not just to those who seem “good” or religious.