I think that's a stretch. That's not the teachings of Christianity, for example, where "sins are forgiven". Yeah there's fire and brimstone types but it's not typical. And no one compels you to continue going to the same church. There may be social pressure to, but people switch churches as often as people switch relationships.

Was tempted to flag you or downvote you, but even if you present it in a very one sided way you have a good point, so have I'll instead just add some nuance:

Yes. Religion has been used to control populations, but for me and many others they've been a tool for empowering individuals and for many it has also been a uniting force to stand up to oppressive regimes.

It has also been a powerful tool to unite and bring peace.

I'd be happy if we as a community of what I think of as mostly reasonable people could manage to be a little bit nuanced.