1. W lately put forth a book “of
the Good of Marriage,” in which also we admonished and admonish
the virgins of Christ, not, on account of that greater gift which
they have received, to despise, in comparison of themselves, the
fathers and mothers of the People of God; and not to think those
men, (whom the
Apostle sets forth as the olive, that the engrafted wild olive be
not proud,) who did service to Christ about to come hereafter, even
by the begetting of sons, on this account of less desert, because
by divine right continence is preferred to wedded life, and pious
virginity to marriage. Forsooth in them were being prepared and
brought forth future things, which now we see fulfilled in a
marvellous and effectual manner, whose married life also was
prophetic: whence, not after the wonted custom of human wishes and
joys, but by the very deep counsel of God, in certain of them
fruitfulness obtained to be honored, in certain also barrenness to
be made fruitful. But at this time, towards them unto whom it is
said, “if they contain not, let them be married,” we must
use not consolation, but exhortation. But them, unto whom it is
said, “Whoso can receive, let him receive,” we must exhort, that they be not
alarmed; and alarm that they be not lifted up. Wherefore virginity
is not only to be set forth, that it may be loved, but also to be
admonished, that it be not puffed up.