men can receive this precept, but only those to whom it is given. For there are eunuchs who have been so from birth, and there are eunuchs who have been made eunuchs by men, and there are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. He who is able to receive this, let him receive it” (Mt. 19:10–12). Thus, continence for the sake of the kingdom of heaven is not set in opposition to marriage, nor is it based on a negative judgment in regard to the importance of marriage.