SO in answer to your question, yes, some religious doctrines use fear as a way to control their congregation. This was never God's intention. In order to really feel his love then fear must be completely abolished. If I had listened to my Catholic Jesuits at Loyola I would have long ago slit my throat. My feelings are yours with that .
All religions are a dual system.
My last 7 years of study have brought me to the new age of Avatar, Course in Miracles and Science of Mind. Here there is no dualism, and hence a lot less fear of God. If linking to this site use the homepage URL and if possible attach the above graphic. All articles are used with permission. Copyrights belong to the authors.