*THEY* are all wrong. It’s not that sin is an invention of religious people to gain control over others, it’s the wrong solutions they offer to take care of it that’s the problem.
Sin is real. People have consciences and there is right an wrong. You have even appealed to a standard of morality on this thread, showing that you acknowledge it.
The real solution for sin is asking God for the forgiveness He offers as a free gift because of the penalty Jesus paid for it.
Throw yourself on the mercy of the court. Then you’ll be free, free from the consequences of sin and free from the deception and control of those who would lord it over you pretending to offer you what they have no power to.
Or perhaps virtue is positive, upright behavior?
we can measure our own behavior and character, and we can strive to better understand and practice them in our everyday lives.
Auctoritas “Spiritual Authority” The sense of one’s social standing, built up through experience, Pietas, and Industria.
Comitas “Humour” Ease of manner, courtesy, openness, and friendliness.
Clementia “Mercy” Mildness and gentleness.
Dignitas “Dignity” A sense of self-worth, personal pride.
Firmitas “Tenacity” Strength of mind, the ability to stick to one’s purpose.
Frugalitas “Frugalness” Economy and simplicity of style, without being miserly.
Gravitas “Gravity” A sense of the importance of the matter at hand, responsibility and earnestness.
Honestas “Respectibility” The image that one presents as a respectable member of society.
Humanitas “Humanity” Refinement, civilization, learning, and being cultured.
Industria “Industriousness” Hard work.
Pietas “Dutifulness” More than religious piety; a respect for the natural order socially, politically, and religiously. Includes the ideas of patriotism and devotion to others.
Prudentia “Prudence” Foresight, wisdom, and personal discretion.
Salubritas “Wholesomeness” Health and cleanliness.
Severitas “Sternness” Gravity, self-control.
Veritas “Truthfulness” Honesty in dealing with others.
So the real counter to accusations of sin is to practice virtue.
or as James wrote “My my works, I show my faith.”
Exactly.