Article II. The Christian Estimation of Matrimony

110. - A preliminary observation. In order that you may judge rightly concerning the perfection which Christ conferred upon the natural institution of matrimony, the present edifice is to be contemplated, rather than the first outlines of the Christian age, such as, after several centuries, already rises polished although not yet fully perfect, as a more mature fruit of evangelical revelation. For in the supernatural order itself, God demands human cooperation, which through successive approaches and endeavors, with which both defects and errors are easily mingled, is accustomed to attain progressively to a better understanding of immutable truth and to a more perfect execution of absolute duty. Wherefore, just as every living being is known better from its developed body than from the embryo, so it is perceived more clearly from the present perfection of Christian matrimony than from its first beginnings what Christ instituted. Provided that in present institutions we show directly or indirectly the legitimate continuation of apostolic doctrine, the present splendor of the doctrine renders us more certain concerning its principles; but from principles accurately weighed we draw an indication of a new progress to be attempted.