Deuteronomy 12

Deuteronomy 12:3

Augustine of Hippo: Give no credit to their words, neither be afraid of them. They say that we are enemies of their idols. So be it; may God give them all into our power, as he has already given us what we have broken down. For I say this, beloved, that you may not attempt to overcome those which it is not lawfully in your power to overcome. It is the way of ill-regulated men and the mad Circumcelliones to be violent when they have no power and to be ever eager to die without cause. You heard what we read to you, all of you who were present in the Mappalia: 2 “When the land shall have been given into your power”—he says first “into your power” and so enjoins what is to be done—“then you shall destroy their altars and break in pieces their groves, and hew down all their images.” When the power has not been given us, do not do it; when it is given, do not neglect it. — SERMONS ON NEW TESTAMENT LESSONS 12.17

Deuteronomy 12:28

Clement of Rome: For it is you, Master, the heavenly “King of eternity,” who gives the sons of men glory and honor and authority over the earth’s people. Direct their plans, O Lord, in accord with “what is good and pleasing to you” so that they may administer the authority you have given them with peace, consideration and reverence, and so win your mercy. — LETTER TO THE CORINTHIANS 61.2

Deuteronomy 12:31

Didache: Thou shalt hate all hypocrisy and everything which is not pleasing to the Lord. Do thou in no wise forsake the commandments of the Lord; but thou shalt keep what thou hast received, neither adding thereto nor taking away therefrom. In the church thou shalt acknowledge thy transgressions, and thou shalt not come near for thy prayer with an evil conscience. — The Didache, Chapter 4

Deuteronomy 12:32

Richard Challoner: That only do thou: They are forbid here to follow the ceremonies of the heathens; or to make any alterations in the divine ordinances.