52. Christ, then, is the beginning of our virtue. He is the beginning of purity, Who taught maidens not to look for the embraces of men, Cf. 1 Cor. vii. 29, 34. It seems unwarrantable to suppose a reference to 2 Cor. xi. 2. but to yield the purity of their bodies and minds to the service of the Holy Spirit rather than to a husband. Christ is the beginning of frugality, for He became poor, though He was rich. 1 Cor. viii. 9. Christ is the beginning of patience, for when He was reviled, He reviled not again, when He was struck, He did not strike back. Christ is the beginning of humility, for He took the form of a servant, though in the majesty of His power He was equal with God the Father. 1 Pet. ii. 23; Phil. ii. 7. From Him each several virtue has taken its origin.