Apologetics -- History -- Early church, ca. 30-600; Celsus (Platonic philosopher), active 180; Theology -- History -- Early Church, ca. 30-600
calling to mind what has long been the subject of their meditation and
instruction, and fortifying themselves by the support of a holier
doctrine, they reject and repel all incitement to pleasure, and drive
away opposing lusts by the interposition of the reason implanted within
them.
FROM THE GREEK.
4. But if any one maintain that this very external cause is of such a
nature that it is impossible to resist it when it comes in such a way,
let him turn his attention to his own feelings and movements, [and see]
whether there is not an approval, and assent, and inclination of the
controlling principle towards some object on account of some specious
arguments.[372] For, to take an instance, a woman who has appeared
before a man that has determined to be chaste, and to refrain from
carnal intercourse, and who has incited him to act contrary to his
purpose, is not a perfect[373] cause of annulling his determination.
For, being altogether pleased with the luxury and allurement of the
pleasure, and not wishing to resist it, or to keep his purpose, he
commits an act of licentiousness. Another man, again (when the same
things have happened to him who has received more instruction, and has
disciplined himself[374]), encounters, indeed, allurements and
enticements; but his reason, as being strengthened to a higher point,
and carefully trained, and confirmed in its views towards a virtuous
course, or being near to confirmation,[375] repels the incitement, and
extinguishes the desire.
FROM THE LATIN.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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