On Exhortation to Chastity

Tertullian (155–240)

V. On Exhortation to Chastity.

[Translated by the Rev. S. Thelwall.]

Chapter I.-Introduction. Virginity Classified Under Three Several Species.

I Doubt not, brother, that after the premission in peace of your wife, you, being wholly bent upon the composing of your mind (to a fight frame), are seriously thinking about the end of your lone life, and of course are standing in need of counsel. Although, in cases of this kind, each individual ought to hold colloquy with his own faith, and consult its strength; still, inasmuch as, in this (particular) species trial), the necessity of the flesh (which generally is faith's antagonist at the bar of the same inner consciousness, to which I have alluded) sets cogitation astir, faith has need of counsel from without, as an advocate, as it were, to oppose the necessities of the flesh : which necessity, indeed, may very easily be circumscribed, if the will rather than the indulgence of God be considered. No one deserves (favour) by availing himself of the indulgence , but by rendering a prompt obedience to the will, (of his master). The will of God is our sanctification, for He wishes His "image "-us-to become likewise His "likeness; " that we may…

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