This is the sole accusation you can bring against us—that we do not reverence the same gods as you do, nor offer drink offerings and the aroma of fat to the dead, nor crowns for their statues. Justin Martyr (c. 160, E), 1.171
We know that the names of the dead are nothing, as are their images. But we know well enough, too, when images are set up, who carry on their wicked work under their names. We know who exult in the homage rendered to the dead and who pretend to be divine. It is none other than the accursed spirits. Tertullian (c. 197, W), 3.84
Offerings to propitiate the dead were regarded as belonging to the class of funeral sacrifices. And these are idolatry. In fact, idolatry is a type of homage to the departed. The one as well as the other is a service to dead men. Moreover, demons have their abode in the images of the dead. . . . Therefore, we make no funeral oblations to the departed. Tertullian (c. 197, W), 3.85
What, indeed, do you perform in honoring your gods that you do not equally perform to your dead? . . . You slay the same victims and burn the same odors for your dead as you do for your gods. Tertullian (c. 197, W), 3.119