Started a history channel series on Netflix last night called bible rules. First episode was interesting. In one part is was discussing stoning (which was not exclusive to the people of the dessert god).
Something they strongly emphasised was how there were a lot of ways to kill someone. Yes this was barbaric but there was another factor to it as well. It demonstrated your loyalty. Sound like disfellowshipping? Everyone gets to participate this way they can show their loyalty to the religious leaders and group. Vicariously representing some diety.