Speaking strictly to the OP poll, I'd say satan/hell plays an even greater role than heaven/god for almost all religions to work. Without satan/hell, people would be free to live without any religious boundaries, since there is no risk to offend their spiritual diety. Without hell, people have no incentive to 'do the right thing'.

That very belief allows a well run scheme to continue. Churches/temples are run like businesses; typically the most important aspect of a successful church/temple is a stable, contributing base. A good pastor is much like a CEO - and their primary focus is typically using their personality to maximize tithes/offerings for the church/temple. However, they have to constantly target the 'next' generation. If they fail to do so, or lose market share, then their revenue stream could dry up. Without new money in, they face extinction.

Look at some of the successful pastors - people like Rick Warren, or Pat Robertson. Much like very successful CEOs, their personal net worth is in the multi-millions. I find it quite hilarious that religious sheep (including those on this thread) don't dare question the way their religious organizations are run.

Personally, though I'm not Christian, I have great respect for this man Jesus (whether or not he existed). However, it's really quite hilarious to hear the RWNJ's touting christianity/religion, when in fact their very beliefs are so far from what Jesus taught.

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"Time's never wasted when you're wasted all the time"