Matthew 12:7

Irenaeus Against Heresies Book IV

Besides, our Lord also exhorted them to the same effect, when He said, "But if ye had known what [this] meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless."[231]

Clement of Alexandria Stromata Book IV " And mercy is not, as some of the philosophers have imagined, pain on account of others' calamities, but rather something good, as the prophets say. For it is said, "I will have mercy, and not sacrifice."[51]

Tertullian Against Marcion Book IV

but even to sacrifice.[1105]

Tertullian On Modesty

which He holds `dearer than all sacrifice, '[17]

Recognitions of Clement I

And all this was arranged with this view, that when the fitting time should come, and they should learn by means of the Prophet that God desires mercy and not sacrifice,[28]

Clementine Homily III

And to those who supposed that God is pleased with sacrifices, He said, `God wishes mercy, and not sacrifices'[61]