Religion exists today as nothing more than a means of social control,

Couldn't agree more iapetus.  I think it's always been about that.  Think about it, societies need controlling to an extent, and if the people believe in God (I say God rather than God/s because I think we are really discussing the Christian God in this thread and to Christians there is only one true God that should be worshipped above all others.  Doesn't mean I'm denying the existence of other Gods btw, but Christians are taught not to worship the other Gods, they should worship the Abrahamic God of the Old and New Testament.)

The Bible outlines exactly how good, strong blooded societies should run, especially the first 5 books of the OT, (hence why they seem so blood thirsty)  and then it proceeds to lay down the law, pretty clearly too can I just add. But the people seem to always go astray, and start to worship idols and love themselves  more than God. tsk tsk naughty people lol  So then comes the wrath.... Sodom and Gamorah know all about that.... And honestly (even if the bible is just a big elaborate story written by a handful of super intelligent guys) what do the people expect, they've gone degenerate, they are breaking every law under the sun, it's almost like it's a competition to see who can break the most commandments in the one sitting lol.  They cop a floggin from Dad and get punished for their disgusting behaviour.  It's divine justice... 😉