Mt21

In Jesus' day the pharisees considered the "tax collectors & prostitutes" as the worst possible sinners! The tax collectors because they overcharged their fellow countrymen for selfish gain and the prostitutes because they profited from sexual sin. Yet Jesus said they were the worst of all because they did not repent and believe.

Extortionists and prostitutes experience God's mercy when they repent. Self righteous leaders will only face God's judgement for a lack of repentance. It doesn't matter what we have done or what sins we have committed, God's mercy is available for everyone who repents. On the other hand, it doesn't matter how good we are or how high our morality has been, without trust in Jesus, we will be condemned.

The gospel is clear. God's mercy extends to everyone and anyone who believes. His judgement will be on everyone and anyone who does not believe. Period.