Answer to the Letters of Petilian, the Donatist 87Chapter 56

Augustine · The Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers Series I Volume IV: The Anti-Manichaean Writings, The Anti-Donatist Writings by Philip Schaff

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127. Petilianus said: "But even if, as you yourselves suppose, you are following the law of the Lord in purity, let us nevertheless consider the question of the most holy law itself in a legal form. The Apostle Paul says, 'The law is good, if a man use it lawfully.' What then does the law say? 'Thou shalt not kill.' What Cain the murderer did once, you have often done in slaying your brethren."

128. Augustin answered: We do not wish to be like you: for there are not wanting words which might be uttered, as you too utter these; and known also, for you do not know these; and set forth in the conduct of a life, as these are not set forth by you.