The idea of sin serves only one need, to reinforce ecumenical power. And since those in positions of ecumenical power are usually men, ecumenical power translates to patriarchy. Keeping women ashamed of themselves works to ensure men stay in the driver seat of the social order, and since traditional family models dictate the men work and the women handle the kids, women use shame to keep the kids in line. The more conditioned to this model of subjugation is a given society, the less likely it will be disrupted by dissent. People subjected to this kind of emotional abuse are less likely to have a positive self-image, a diminished will to advocate for and defend themselves. Men win so long as they can use sin to control others.