Well, the ultimate goal of most religions is "to be saved", isn't it? Go to heaven, or Valhalla or the Paradise with virgins or whatever prize. I think religion explores the "transactional model" because it works, in the sense that more people will commit to religion expecting a prize.
People understand the transactional model because that's how most things in life work. It's only natural that people would try to attach that to Christianity however living a life serving God does not work that way. However I do see your point in going to heaven; If we believe in God and that Jesus died for our sins, we go to heaven so I guess that could be considered transactional. However I don't think as Christians going to heaven should be our main goal, serving God should.
(post is archived)