(I am making this version of the fourth chapter of Laughing at the Devil free, hoping it helps spread comprehension of a much misunderstood portion of our history: the Jesus tale.)

A Political Story

The story of Constantine [told in the previous chapter] helped me realize that Western religion was originally a tool used for political gain. This caused the priests to obtain great control over the populace.

By this, I do not mean the church had unlimited power. Rather, picture them as people on surfboards; able to guide the stick, and set a course. In reality they were only ‘riding the waves’ of society’s beliefs—going too far beyond specific parameters would result in loss of control, and a wet (and sometimes humbling) spill.

Just as now, the populace of those times wanted a better life. Many leaders liked the authority and wealth they possessed, and didn’t want things changed. The priests—charged by the people to improve conditions physically as well as morally—had to be excellent politicians, both when dealing with the government, and their parishioners.

While coming to grips with my childhood trauma, I realized part of it was caused by political and religious figures thirsting for supremacy long ago (and not so long ago). That realization sparked my decision to never again be controlled by the Christianity of my past. I also decided to not accept the ideas and beliefs of others until all the questions in my mind were answered.

In addition to my skepticism, a deep curiosity pushed me to continue studying. Was there more to religion than most people suspect? Why was it allowed to do what it did? And of course, the hidden question bubbled behind everything: “Am I wrong? Could the teachings in my youth be correct?” All of these issues were put to rest when (more…)