Of course. So are governments, businesses, sports, movies, elevators, etc... Fear is a great motivator. For example, in an elevator where there is no one you know, I dare you to turn around and face all the other people in the elevator. You can't. It isn't that fear exists; it's about recognizing and not letting it guide you. What would you do in the midst of a natural disaster: panic like everyone else, or use your mind to make the best decisions possible?
I agree that fear is imbeded in Religion it's a driving force that allows the fanatics to sell salvation. I just bought a book and have thumbed thru it a bit "Philosophy of Fearism" by Desh Subba, He stated that the more knowledge we aquire the more fear we become aware of. I've only read bits and pieces of it so I probaly shouldn't comment on it yet but in the appendex is a list of every fear known to man from A to Z. I think I am developing a fear of reading the book,ha. One thing I'm sure of I have and Had no fear of becoming a Atheist, when I crossed that bridge I felt a sense of relief.
Jesus died for our sins but if we don't atone for our sins he sends us to hell . . what am I missing here?
He died for our sins, but then changed his mind.
I would have to add that $$$$ has more an influence for these phony charlatans to operate and not pay any taxes. I study the Bible for Historical, Artistic and Architectural Interests. The Bigotry is easy to uncover once you get there.