Yes, that is one of the most ridiculous notions for belief in God that I have ever seen. When I was in philosophy class when I was in college, I was aghast when I heard that argument (and immediately lost a good deal of respect for Pascal).
I have over the years, come to believe in God (gone from athiest to agnostic to the doorstep of Christianity). It is my belief that anyone who uses such a souless approach really doesn't understand what faith is!
And MineralMan, though you and I disagree 90% on the topic of religion I have complete respect for you. You are someone who is at peace with himself and the world, and if there is a God you have nothing to fear :). If there isn't then you've left the world a better place by visiting, and that's all anyone can ask for in this life. Your arguments are always respectful towards the views of others, and I cannot say the same for some of those who argue against you.
But as for the anti-death penalty arguments you've made, I think you are completely out of touch ;)
I'm sure we have some areas of agreement. Thanks for your well thought out words.