This morning we begin our Advent series on the gospel of Matthew’s account of the birth of Jesus. Whereas John begins his gospel with a majestic explanation of the coming of Jesus, and Luke with an explanation of what the purpose of his gospel is, as does Mark, Matthew begins with a long list of names. It is seldom read and seldom preached on, but it contains some necessary information for the Jews in the days of Jesus and inspiring truth for the Christians in our day.