Ad:

Our books consistently maintain 4-star and better ratings despite the occasional 1- and 2-star ratings from people angry because we have no respect for sacred cows.

[Christians] marry, as do all others. They beget children, but they do not destroy their offspring. They have a common table, but not a common bed. (Letter to Diognetus)

Speak to my sisters, and tell them to love the Lord and be satisfied with their husbands both in the flesh and spirit. Exhort my brothers in the name of Jesus Christa that they love their wives even as the Lord the Church, (Letter to Polycarp 5)

But it is fitting for both men and women who marry to form their union with the approval of the bishop, that their marriage may be according to God, and not after their own lust. (Letter to Polycarp 5)

If we marry, it is only so that we may bring up children; or if we decline marriage, we live continently. (First Apology 29)

Springing from Saturninus and Marcion, those who are called Encratites [a branch of gnosticism; literally means "self-controlled"] preached against marriage, thus setting aside the original creation of God and indirectly blaming him who made the male and female for the propagation of the race. (Against Heresies I:28:1)

For with perfect propriety Scripture has said that woman is given by God as a help to man. It is evident, then, in my opinion, that she will charge herself with remedying, by good sense and persuasion, each of the annoyances that originate with her husband in domestic economy. And if he does not yield, then she will endeavor, as far as possible for human nature, to lead a sinless life. (Miscellanies IV:20)

The marriage, then, that is consummated according to the word, is sanctified, if the union be under subjection to God, and be conducted "with a true heart, in full assurance of faith, having hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and the body washed with pure water, and holding the confession of hope; for He is faithful that promised" [Heb. 10:22]. The happiness of marriage ought never to be estimated by wealth or beauty, but by virtue. (Miscellanies IV:20)

This is an ad written by me, Paul Pavao: I get a commission if you buy Xero shoes, which does not increase your cost. Barefoot running/walking is the best thing for your feet--if we did not walk on cement, asphalt, and gravel. Normal shoes compress your toes and do a lot of the work your lower leg muscles should be doing. Xero shoes are minimalist and let your toes spread and your feet do the work they are supposed to do. More info at the link.