Interesting. When I referred to religions as cults, I was shouted at by the same person who is calling Mormons cults.

Is the "ours is the true one" idea so hard wired that followers of one cult dismiss others? It occurs to me that the one difference between me and a pious believer is that I dismiss one more cult than they do as being irrelevant. I mean this seriously, what is the difference between Christ stories in the bible, Mohammed stories in the Q'ran and whatever it s Mormons believe? Are they all not stories written by people?

Could it not be easier for all Christians to agree a standard story? It would make life easier surely? The rest of us won't be so confused when we attend weddings, funerals etc. oh, and if the drafting committee could add a bit about women and gays being equal, it might help all round. The present versions of the bible are rather old fashioned when it comes to loving everybody equally and are perhaps due a re write. At present, compared to soap opera and iPads, religion is looking somewhat Betamax. Perhaps a makeover for the c21st?

In regard to substitutionary atonement, I am aware that a religious member of my wife's family prays for me. Sounds all rather busy and complicated. Fascinating though, to someone not a member of the club.