first i will say that i do agree with you mostly. 
  
h/e i have recently found the use and benefit of sport climbing.  having recently had shoulder surgery and hurt my foot, i've found that clipping bolts has given me the opportunity to improve my conditioning w/o resorting to the gym. and oh the horror, i've actually been having some fun.  
  
i recently took a lead fall that although not serious, rattled my nerves a bit.  yesterday i took the opportunity to lead a few sport routes. although it certainly isn't the same as leading on gear, it did give me a chance to be above my protection and soothe my nerves a bit.  
  
it all has a place.