[annalex]

Since they were heretical, naturally I wouldn't quote them as expressing a belief of the Church, but quoting, for example St. Augustine debating them would indeed explain their heresy and the view taken by the Church.

See On Baptism, Against the Donatists.

[wmfights]

Since they were heretical, naturally I wouldn't quote them as expressing a belief of the Church, but quoting, for example St. Augustine debating them would indeed explain their heresy and the view taken by the Church.

You illustrate the mistake of looking at the reasoning for something from only one view, which is exactly what happens when you rely on the early theologians of your church.

I picked the Donatist's for a very specific reason. They were a part of your church and left for very specific reasons. They were not considered "heretics" until they refused to submit to a central authority that was backed by the power of the state.