The heading above Matthew 1:18-25 reads: “The Birth of Jesus Christ.” These verses do not actually record Christ’s birth. None of the nativity passages do. The text records the circumstances surrounding the birth of Jesus. How he was born confirms who he is. Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of a virgin, and adopted by Joseph. Matthew 1:1-17 presents Jesus as a part of the royal line of David, qualifying him to be the promised Messiah-King. This is why Matthew’s birth narrative begins with Joseph.  Joseph was betrothed to a virgin named Mary. Before their marriage was consummated, Mary became pregnant – not by Joseph. Joseph...