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I've had this notion for a while, but my reading through Nightglass has helped reassert it. The clockmaker theory states that God created the universe, but hasn't taken an active role in running it since then.
I have been coming to the conclusion that Golarion operates on a similar idea. Surely the existence of divine spellcasters refutes this claim, yes? But paladins, inquisitors and druids can cast most of the same spells without worshipping a god, and oracles have no idea where their spells come from. On top of that, there are several creatures that we (as players, I don't know if there anyone knows within the setting) that there are numerous beings that can grant spells without being gods. Beyond even that, arcane spellcasters can cast spells no less potent than the divinely inspired casters, and they are drawing on no power greater than themselves.
There is one more thing that I think casts doubt on the presence of the gods. What happens when a priest turns his back on his god? He loses his spells, that's it? Really, Asmodeus, Zon-Kuthon and Rovagug, deities known best for their spite and malice will do nothing more than cut you loose?
Basically, as far as I can tell, the greatest signs that the gods exist is a cosmic artifact that promises divinity to those who satisfy it, but none of the people that did have ever talked about it, and that the ruler of Geb is widely believed to be a fallen god. What I'm asking is, in a world like that, why is there only one Rhahadoum, why is there only one Razmir? Shouldn't there be dozens, or hundreds? Or do I have it wrong, and there is much more evidence of the divine than I realize?
Clerics receive their spells directly from their deities, and they're not so uncommon as to be questioned as a mere rumor by the majority of people. If you read up on the Gods (particularly in their entries in the adventure paths) they make their wills known in the world through identifiable signs. They send visions to their followers. They don't tend to physically manifest, but that's because the last time one of them did, she was killed by a super-powerful lich.
The existence, and continued activity of the Gods in the world is rather apparent to most people.
There's also a God who exists specifically to kill any threat that rises to the point where it can actually threaten any of the Gods.
The whole "only lose spells" thing for betraying the Gods is purely a game mechanics thing. Also, you're underestimating the extent to which stripping a powerful caster of all their power can serve as a horrific expression of spite and anger. Especially if it's done when they're in a bind.
"Enjoy defending yourself from that powerful dragon without any magic, sucker."