While we may use the word ‘conduct’ or ‘behavior’ to denote the sum-total of actions which constitute the patterns of life, yet behind all overt action is the dispositional character or complex which is the psychological determinant of action. Hence ethics must take into account the dispositional complex of which the overt act is the expression. This is to say, biblical ethics has paramount concern with the heart out of which are the issues of life.

John Murray, Principles of Conduct, 13.