Celibacy Quote by Preston Sprinkle
““Augustine suggests that in the mutual submission and self-surrender of marriage, and in the openness of the marriage relationship to children, with the demands of self-sacrificial love that the arrival of children bring, there is a discipling process. Our desires are reordered as we live out the marriage relationship (just as they are when we live out a celibate life) so that we are rendered fit for the kingdom—and marriage and celibacy alike are ways of life, thick clusters of practices, that tend to this reordering of our desires when lived seriously. In this sense marriage is properly named an “ascetic” practice.””
About This Quote
Source Lecture: Theology of Marriage, 2018
Marriage, like celibacy, can be a disciplined practice that reshapes desires toward self‑sacrifice and kingdom‑focused living.
In simple terms: Marriage can be an ascetic path that reorders desires.
Key Takeaway
Approach marriage as a spiritual discipline.
Themes
marriage
asceticism
desire reordering
spiritual growth
Mood
contemplative
thoughtful
Type
theological
inspirational
When to use this quote
- married life
- spiritual direction
- counseling sessions
Key Concepts
self‑sacrifice
kingdom mindset
discipline
Questions to Reflect On
- How does disciplined love enhance marriage?
- What balance exists between ascetic practice and relational happiness?
A Different Perspective
Treating marriage solely as ascetic may overlook relational joy.
