If we zoom out and look at the big picture, we’ll understand each other better. Let’s not get lost in small errors or differences in holy books. To me, the issue is “religion” itself - not just its texts. From 30+ years inside one faith as a follower and leader, and from studying religion globally, I’ve seen a pattern: religions often mislead, and their holy books all claim to be the single truth by pointing to themselves as the proof. But that doesn’t really prove anything.

Here’s how I’m thinking about this…

People who follow holy books belong to religions. By definition, religions are cults. All cults/religions deceive and operate the same way. In my experience, religious cults aren’t the way, amigo.

I genuinely don’t care whether the Bible is literally true or not - that’s missing the point. The real problem is organized religion and how it deceives people. I left Christianity after seeing how the church controlled and shaped my life; its system is oppressive and often doesn’t live up to its claim of following Jesus. As I said before, the convictions of JC is what lead me away from religion. And I care about you Mike, so I care that you aren’t being misled by religion.

Over the past decade I’ve become a better man without religion, that I know for certain. Ask my kids, ask my wife. Ten years ago when I changed my mind on religion, I became a more connected and loving person in their lives. More tuned in, more sincere, less controlling and more loving.

You asked if groups that claim to hold the truth might be trying to deceive us — we should always ask that question! Great observation, Mike! Who benefits? Another epic question, sir! I would answer that by saying Religion benefits hugely when people believe: it brings control, money and power. Belief funds institutions and shapes who we trust, vote for, associate with, and financially support. That’s how cults and powerful churches grow. Follow the money.

Look at the Catholic Church’s rise when most people were illiterate - leaders claimed a monopoly on God and told people they had to pay and obey to be saved. That initiative expanded influence and control around the globe with mission in nearly every country on planet earth. That some serious deceit in my eyes.

So now we can ask your question of “who benefits” from my disbelief in religion? I’d answer that no one benefits - which is pretty much the whole point. I am free, independent, and in control of my own mind - who I trust, love, and support with my time and money. I feel more free than ever in this way. It’s up to me and God… not some institution’s interpretation of the God they put into a nice little theological box to understand and control.

My bank account shows this clearly. For decades we kept a “tithe” account because we were devout Christians, so I know exactly how much we gave to religion (10% of earnings). You’ve likely given similarly. Now that same bank account keeps growing (via automatic savings), and we get to use that money to help people of all backgrounds. We give without influence, demands, guilt, or shame. BTW guilt and shame are powerful tools religion uses to control its people. Pay attn to that.

Another example of deceiving and who benefits… If you’re Mormon, the church requires a 10% tithe and tracks it closely. Each household gets a church "accountant" who checks your giving - based on tax returns! That’s some tight control! Money funds temple building, political influence in Utah, and global missionary work in the name of their “one and true” religion.

Mormonism and mainstream Christianity are more similar than people think. They have slightly varying beliefs and practices, but their structures and many core ideas overlap greatly. One of my best buddies is an x-mormon, and our religious upbringings were more alike than different. And our leadership structure we’re mostly identical.

If you think Mormons are wrong (which I agree with), then Christians, Muslims, Catholics - and many other religions - can be seen as equally mistaken. They all believe in the same Bible, and believe in the same God of Abraham. So who is correct, and who is not? What if none of them truly have the corner on God?! Religions are systems that create insiders and outsiders, usually tied up with financial gain, influence, and power.

When it comes down to it, people have different beliefs and we usually can’t change each other’s minds. Curious though how everyone agrees that there truly is something bigger going on - call it a Creator, purpose, or meaning - but no single religion can claim the whole truth, imo.

I will be eternally curious about these “something bigger going on” questions, and prefer exploring them openly, not through strict dogma. I don’t believe any one religion has a monopoly on the infinite and all-powerful God of the universe. Who can even make such a claim?!

If you ever want to talk about faith, spirituality, or questions about religion, I’m here to listen, amigo. But I will not tickle your ear about religion - for it is not what you were told it is. It is mostly deceitful and manipulating.

My spiritual journey matters to me, and I’m happy to share and learn as I explore and expand my beliefs. Keep asking who benefits from a belief structure, and how does one religion really differ from another - does it limit how you think and live? Or does it set you free?