How can anyone take offense at such a sly practice.
The Bible does encourage confession, but from the individual directly to God.
The catholic church put a twist on things so they could keep a tighter control on
their parishoners.
If you know someone's secrets, you have control over them.
Also...
The key phrases are:
"by believing in God"
"live productive lives"
What if some things they believe are not accurate?
If I believe you are a womanizing drunkard, and tell others that you are, what would be your feelings?
'Live productive lives' according to whose definition?
Please recall: Its...