¹³ “But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast^(A) and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’^(B)

⁸ If we claim to be without sin,^(A) we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.^{(B) 9} If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins^(C) and purify us from all unrighteousness.^{(D) 10} If we claim we have not sinned,^(E) we make him out to be a liar^(F) and his word is not in us.^(G)

⁶ and prayed:

¹⁵ Here is a trustworthy saying^(A) that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners^(B)—of whom I am the worst.

⁴⁸ When all the people who had gathered to witness this sight saw what took place, they beat their breasts^(A) and went away.

⁶ So Jesus went with them.

He was not far from the house when the centurion sent friends to say to him: “Lord, don’t trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. ⁷ That is why I did not even consider myself worthy to come to you. But say the word, and my servant will be healed.^(A)

¹⁶ Let us then approach^(A) God’s throne of grace with confidence,^(B) so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

⁸ But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.^(A)