Except, that interpretation taught from the pulpit is in error. It wasn't about believing in Jesus. It was about genuine repentance and a changed heart. People would just prefer to think they can be awful their whole lives, then Bob's yer uncle, they're dying and profess belief in Jesus for a free pass. That wasn't the intended lesson.

Ultimately, I think that's the core every faith tries to impart – own up to your faults, strive to be better, be kind, be generous, and reflect love into the world. It's men trying to control who "deserves" all that which causes the problems.