more like coitus interruptus as a form of contraception

Appropriately enough, this member agrees with the old hand.

I'm struck once again by the vast difference (even total opposition) between the portrayal of God in the Old Testament and the New. In the former the message appears to be: "I have my Reasons, but you couldn't possibly understand them. Do as I say or you and all you cherish will suffer, probably terminally".
In the latter it's more "You'll have to take this on trust. Believe you me it's worth the sacrifice. I love you and I could never hurt you".
I suppose it's all about the time the books were written, and the needs of the intended audience.