m. What God
requires is correct outward behaviour, self-restraint, and
consideration of others.

In estimating the Ethics of Israel the fact that it was a preparatory
stage in the revelation of God's will must not be overlooked. We are
not surprised, therefore, that, judged by the absolute standard of the
New Testament, the morality of the Old Testament must be pronounced
imperfect. In two respects at least, in intent and extent, it is
deficient.

(1) It is lacking in _Depth_. There is a tendency to dwell upon the
sufficiency of external acts rather than the necessity of inward
disposition. At the same time, in the Psalter and prophecy inward
purity is recognised.[20] Further, the character of Jehovah is
sometimes presented in a repellent aspect; as in the threatenings of
the second commandment; the treatment of the children of Achan and the
Sons of Korah; the seeming injustice of God, implied in the complaint
of Moses, and the protests of Abraham and David. But again there are
not wanting more kindly features of the Divine Being; and the
Fatherhood of God finds frequent expression. Though the penal code is
severe, a gentler spirit shines through many of its provisions, and
protection is afforded to the wage-earner, the dependent, and the poor;
while the care of slaves, foreigners, and even lower animals is not
overlooked.[21] Again, it has been noticed that the motives to which
the Old Testament appeals are often mercenary. Material prosperity
plays an important part as an inducement to well-doing. The good which
the pious patriarch or royal potentate contemplates is something which
is calculated to enrich himself or advance his people. But here we
must not forget that {51} God's revelation is progressive, and His
dealing with man educative. There is naturally a certain accommodation
of the divine law to the various stages of the moral apprehension of
the Jewish people. Gradually the nation is being carried forward by
the promise of material benefits to the deeper and more inward
appreciation of spiritual blessings.

(2) It is lacking in _Scope_. In regard to universality the Hebrew
ideal, it must be acknowledged, is deficient. God is usually
represented as the God of Israel alone, and not as the God of all men,
and the obligations of veracity, honesty, and mercy are confined within
the limits of the nation. It is true that a prominent commandment
given to Israel and endorsed by our Lord runs thus: