27. Which is in general the way to Perfection?
The imitation of Jesus Christ.
'If thou wilt be perfect, . . . and come, follow me' (Matt. xix. 21).
28. What particular means of attaining Perfection have been recommended by Jesus Christ?
Chiefly those which are called ' Evangelical Counsels. '
29. Which are the Evangelical Counsels?
1. Voluntary Poverty; 2. Perpetual Chastity; and 3. Entire Obedience to a Spiritual Superior.
30. What is ' Voluntary Poverty '?
It is a free renunciation of all temporal things, in order to be less distracted in striving for those that are eternal.
'If thou wilt be perfect, go sell what thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in Heaven; and come, follow me' (Matt. xix. 21).
31. What is 'Perpetual Chastity'?
It is a free and perpetual renunciation, not only of all impure pleasure, but even of marriage, in order that we may render undivided service to God.
See Matt. xix. 10-12. 'Now concerning virgins, I have no commandment of the Lord, but I give counsel: ... He that giveth his virgin in marriage, doth well; and he that giveth her not, doth better' (1 Cor. vii. 25, 38). 'If any one shall say that the marriage state, is to be preferred to the state of virginity, or of celibacy, and that it is not better and more blessed to remain in virginity, or in celibacy, than to be united in matrimony, let him be anathema' (Counc. of Trent, Sess. 24, Can. 10).
32. What is ' Entire Obedience '?
It is a renunciation of one's own will, in order to do the Divine will more surely under a Superior who represents God (Matt. xvi. 24).
33. Why are the Evangelical Counsels special means of Perfection?
1. Because by them the chief obstacles to Christian Perfection are removed — namely, the inordinate love
