The Religion Of The Masonic Lodge

From http://www.logosresourcepages.org/FalseTeachings/freemas_2.htm

"Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." . . . Acts 4:12 . . .
Christianity and Freemasonry - Are they Compatible?
© Pastor Richard C. Rogers -- Logos ResearcherLogos Communication -- P.O. BOX 173 -- Oak Creek, WI 53154Phone: (414)768-9754 -- FAX: (414)762-8922
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INTRODUCTIONTHE PURPOSEQUESTION #1 Is Freemasonry a Religion?QUESTION #2 Is Freemasonry Biblically Acceptable?QUESTION #3 Should a Christian be a Mason?
INTRODUCTION

Many people, including Christians, have questions regarding the validity and integrity of Freemasonry. Externally, Freemasonry appears to be a fraternal organization which provides many benefits socially. Masons strongly emphasize community involvement. They finance special projects in third-world countries and help in the development and building of medical facilities. Some of the members are seen in their Shriner hats riding motorcycles in parades. There are Masonic Lodges in all 50 states in cities large and small. Thus, they are known nation and world wide. The Masonic organization has different branches which provide friends and activities for the whole family, including the Eastern Star, the Demolay and Job's Daughters.
There are also many well-known people that are or have been in the Masons---politicians such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, Gerald Ford and Robert Dole. John Wayne was a Mason. Former baseball player/manager Pete Rose has Masonic connections. People like these have provided the Masons a degree of credibility and acceptability in the public eye. Yet, the public knows very little about the structure of command and system of Masonic teaching. To the average non-Mason the organization appears to be shrouded in mystery, involving such things as symbols, secret gestures, languages and oaths. But should Christians sanction an organization they do not really know about? I do not think so! That is why I have written this report.

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THE PURPOSE

The purpose of this research report is to briefly examine the Masons as an organization. There are three questions that will be addressed.
Is Freemasonry a religion?
If it is a religion, is it Biblically acceptable?
Should a Bible believing Christian be a Mason?

The information found in this report will be based upon literature provided by and used in the practices and doctrines of Freemasonry. Though other Christian resources may occasionally be used for comment, the statements explaining the Masonic position will be taken from their own publications. Thus, there will not be any biased opinion, as is often accused by Freemasonry.
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QUESTION #1 Is Freemasonry a Religion?

Generally, the Freemason will inform anyone who asks, that his organization is not a religion. Thus, there would be no problem with any church affiliations, because joining the Masons is not joining "another church."

Recently many newspapers carried an insert entitled, Freemasonry - A Way of Life. The insert stated, "Masonry is NOT a religion in any sense of the word, yet it is religious. Church membership is not a requirement, yet membership in ANY church is no bar to admission. There is nothing in the requirements of Masonry to prevent a Catholic, a Mohammedan, a Jew, a Buddhist, a Protestant, a Mormon, or any member of any religion from becoming a member." (The Question of Freemasonry, Computers for Christ). Dr. Richard Thorn, a 32 degree Mason writes, "Masonry says that it is not a religion. An honest interpretation of the teachings of Freemasonry will show that instead of teaching men what to believe, men are simply asked to put the religion they already have, when they become a Mason, into everyday practice" ("Fundamentalist & Freemason," The Northern Light, Vol. 25 No. 3 August, 1994, p. 9).

Many similar statements are given by those involved in Freemasonry, and likely many believe it. But are they correct in their conclusion that Freemasonry is not a religion? Let's investigate and see what we uncover.

The Definition of "religion"

To begin with, we need to define the word "religion." Webster defines it as "...a specific fundamental set of beliefs and practices generally agreed upon by a number of people or sects..." (Webster's College Dictionary, Random House 1991 ed., p. 1138). To be sure this definition could be expanded to include much more, but this basic definition is sufficient for the purpose of this report.

Let's apply the key words and phrases from this definition of religion to Freemasonry. First, Masons have "...a specific fundamental set..." That is, they have set parameters, or guidelines, they operate by. Second, Freemasons hold to a system of common "beliefs" that form the foundation of their organization and which are agreed upon by their members. Finally, it encourages "practices," which require a written standard from which to formulate them. Among their teachings are volumes of written materials explaining their doctrines, beliefs and goals. It is clear, Freemasonry fits the dictionary definition of a religion.

The Teachings of Freemasonry

Albert G. Mackey and Charles T. McClenachan wrote the 2 volume set titled Encyclopedia of Freemasonry. This set is a standard reference for the "beliefs and practices" of Freemasonry. Note the following statement concerning Freemasonry and religion: "There has been a needless expenditure of ingenuity and talent, by a large number of Masonic orators and essayists, in the endeavor to prove that Masonry is not a religion... I contend, without any sort of hesitation, that Masonry is, in every sense of the word, except one, and that its least philosophical, an eminently religious institution -- that it is indebted solely to the religious element which it contains for its origin and for its continued existence, and that without this religious element it would scarcely be worthy of cultivation by the wise and good" (Vol. 2, p. 618).

Clearly, according to this statement, it is legitimate to speak of the "Religion of Freemasonry." The above statement speaks of the "religious element," which would indicate some form of doctrine. It uses the term "cultivation," which seems to imply its practices. Mackey and McClenachan continue: "The tendency of all true Masonry is toward religion. If it makes any progress, its progress is to that holy end. Look at its ancient landmarks, its sublime ceremonies, its profound symbols and allegories -- all inculcating religious doctrine, commanding religious observance, and teaching religious truth, and who can deny that it is eminently a religious institution?... Masonry, then, is, indeed, a religious institution; and on this ground mainly, if not alone, should the religious Mason defend it" (Vol. 2, pp. 618-619).

It is obvious in the view of these Freemasonry writers that Freemasonry is a religion when they declare, "...who can deny that it is eminently a religious institution?"

Other Indicators of The Religious Nature of Freemasons

There are other indicators that clearly verify the religious nature of Freemasonry including their ancient landmarks, ceremonies, symbols, allegories and teachings. One example is the meeting place, the Masonic Lodge. "Every lodge is a Temple, and as a whole, and in its details symbolic... A 'lodge' is defined to be 'an assemblage of Freemasons, duly congregated, having the sacred writings, square, and compass, and a charter, or warrant of constitution, authorizing them to work'" (Albert Pike, Morals and Dogma of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, 1917 ed., p. 7).

The ranks of Freemasonry also suggest a religious order. Note the titles included in the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry -- Perfect Master; Prince of Jerusalem; Chief of Tabernacle; Prince of Tabernacle; Knight of the Brazen Serpent; Prince of Mercy and Commander of the Temple. These titles are immersed in religious meaning and symbolism.

There is a great deal of symbolism involved in Freemasonry. "Freemasonry is a system of morality developed and inculcated by the science of symbolism... Withdraw from Freemasonry its Symbolism, and you take from the body its soul, leaving behind nothing but a lifeless mass of effete matter, fitted only for a rapid decay" (Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, Vol. 2, p. 754). "Masonry uses many symbols. They're our primary way of teaching, just as they were in ancient times" (Questions and Answers, The Northern Light, February 1993, p. 19).
Though there is much more that could be stated, it should be apparent that Freemasonry is a religion. It is seen through the writings of the Masonic Order, the terms used in various activities, the titles of the hierarchy and the symbolism that is involved.

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Why The Denial?

Why do many Masons deny that their organization is a religion? Why would a friend or relative neglect to be honest about their organization? There may be various reasons for the uncertainty of their answers.
To begin with, there are people who become involved in organizations in a superficial manner. I am convinced that many join Masonic organizations without a full understanding of the teachings the organization holds. They join simply for the companionship or for social contact or social standing. Their involvement is limited to the initiatory status without their knowing the history, doctrines or practices of the organization.

In reality, Freemasonry does not reveal its teachings to every Mason. One of their own publications admits that. "Masonry, like all the Religions... conceals (italics his) its secrets from all except the Adepts and Sages, or the Elect, and uses false explanations and misinterpretations of its symbols to mislead those who deserve only to be misled; to conceal the Truth, which it calls Light, from them, and to draw them away from it. Truth is not for those who are unworthy or unable to receive it, or would pervert it" (Morals and Dogma, p. 105).
Clearly Freemasonry allows intentional deception within its ranks when it desires to do so. In any event, it appears that not all Masons understand what is involved in the beliefs and practices of the Masonic Order.

Finally, the Mason is sworn to secrecy through oaths throughout the 33 degrees. For example, the Entered Apprentice of the first degree swears, " ...binding myself under no less penalty than that of having my throat cut from ear to ear, my tongue torn out by its roots, and buried in the sands of the sea, at low water mark, where the tide ebbs and flows twice in twenty-four hours, should I, in the least, knowingly or wittingly violate or transgress this my Entered Apprentice obligation. So help me God, and keep me steadfast" (Ralph P. Lester, ed. Look to the East! A Ritual of the First Three Degrees of Masonry. Charles T. Powner Co., 1982, p. 31). Could it be that the denial is due to the oaths taken, and the penalty for disclosing any secrets? I believe the answer is "YES!"

Is Freemasonry a Religion?

Though the arguments stated above are certainly nowhere near exhaustive, they are sufficient to establish the fact that Freemasonry is a religion. It fits an acceptable definition of a religion, and has its own order and system of doctrine.

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QUESTION #2 Is Freemasonry Biblically Acceptable?In order to determine if Freemasonry is Biblically acceptable we will compare the Masonic teaching with historic, orthodox Christian teaching, in the following areas --

The Bible
God the Father
The Lord Jesus Christ
Salvation

These four areas provide the underlying foundation of orthodox Christianity. Historically, the Christian Church determined a group's acceptability by comparing their beliefs about the Bible, God the Father, the Lord Jesus Christ and Salvation with Christian doctrine. Therefore these areas provide an excellent basis to weigh the teachings of Freemasonry to determine if it is Biblically acceptable.

The Bible

How do Freemasons view the Bible? According to Masonic authors Mackey and McClenachan, "The Bible is properly called a greater light of Masonry, for from the center of the Lodge it pours forth upon the East, the West, and the South its refulgent rays of Divine truth. The Bible is used among Masons as a symbol of the will of God, however it may be expressed. And, therefore, whatever to any people expresses that will may be used as a substitute for the Bible in a Masonic Lodge. Thus, in a Lodge consisting entirely of Jews, the Old Testament alone may be placed upon the altar, and Turkish Masons make use of the Koran. Whether it be the gospels to the Christian, the Pentateuch to the Israelite, the Koran to the Mussulman, or the Vedas to the Brahman, it everywhere Masonically conveys the same idea--that of the symbolism of the Divine Will revealed to man" (Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, Vol. 1, p. 104).The Bible asserts it is the inspired Word of God. 2 Timothy 3:16 says, All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: (see also 2 Peter 1:20-21). Doctrinal systems that do not hold this view of the Bible but offer some altered view are unacceptable. Freemasonry advances an altered view of the Bible.

Let's examine more closely some of the highlights of the Masonic view of the Bible. First, the Bible is merely a "greater light." In fact, Freemasonry promotes the idea that the Canon of Scripture is on the same level as the Koran (the writings of Islam) and the Vedas (the writings of Hinduism), etc. Ultimately, any "sacred writing" could be and is used in place of the Holy Bible at a Lodge, depending on the culture and beliefs! Mackey and McClenachan show how Freemasonry regards the Bible by stating ,"In the American system, the Bible is both a piece of furniture and a great light" (Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, Vol. 1, p. 105). The conglomeration of "sacred writings" is certainly anti-biblical and therefore unacceptable.

Additionally, according to the definition from The Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, the Bible is looked upon as but "a symbol of the will of God." Webster defines symbol as "Something used for or regarded as representing something else, esp. a material object representing something immaterial..." (Webster's College Dictionary, 1991 ed., p. 1353). It is certainly difficult to see how something can symbolically represent the will of God. The Scriptures contain words that carry specific meanings which consummate in a particular message. This revelation of God is disclosed to man so he can understand the message God is conveying. The Lord does not desire to remain hidden and mysterious in symbolism Freemasonry would have you believe. He has revealed Himself and His will through words. These revelatory words are recorded for us in the Holy Scripture.

Albert Pike seeks to degrade the Scriptures further by stating that "The Bible, with all the allegories it contains, expresses, in an incomplete and veiled manner only, the religious science of the Hebrews ...The Hebrew books were written only to recall to memory the traditions..." Thus, the revelation God gives to man is full of allegories, covered in obscurity and incomplete. Albert Pike obviously had a low view of the Scriptures! However, when it came to an occult volume, that is a different matter. He states that "One is filled with admiration, on penetrating into the Sanctuary of the Kabala, at seeing doctrine so logical, so simple, and at the same time so absolute" (Morals and Dogma, pp. 744-745). The Kabala is a rabbinical interpretation of the Old Testament which is steeped in mystical philosophy. Is it not odd that Mr. Pike would claim that the mystical teachings of the Kabala were more logical, simple and absolute than the teachings of the Bible?

The Bible is unique, and can never be placed as a "choice" among other choices! It is the special, unique and direct revelation of God (see Psalm 119; Matt. 4:4; Acts 1:16; Rom. 1:2; 2 Peter 1:21). The Bible teaches that "... it is in truth, the word of God," 1 Thes. 2:13, it is "...given by inspiration of God," 2 Tim. 3:16, that it possesses the power to pierce "...even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart," Heb. 4:12, and credits it for the course of salvation as our Lord taught, "Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me," John 5:39.

Ask yourself, Is Freemasonry Biblically acceptable when their view of the Bible is--

Merely a greater light
Veiled, symbolic of God's will
Not solely the Word of God but as a choice among choices
Allegorical, obscure and incomplete
Usable as a piece of furniture
Less logical and meaningful than the mystical Kabala.

The answer is NO!!! Why would any Christian who places his eternal welfare on the teaching of the pages of Holy Writ tolerate a view of the Bible that denigrates its authority and power. Yet there are some who do. But, remember this. Every man will stand before God at some point in time to give an account of what he has done with and how he has defended the special revelation from God, the Bible (1 Cor. 3:1-4:4; John 5:24-29; 5:39).
Freemasonry advocates an aberrant view of the Bible. Therefore, Christians must disqualify it as an organization or religion worthy of belonging to or supporting.
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God the Father

What does Freemasonry teach about God the Father? Freemasonry does recognize, accept and promote the existence of God. Mackey and McClenachan explain, "A belief in the existence of God is an essential point of Speculative Masonry -- so essential, indeed, that it is a landmark of the Order that no Atheist can be a mason" (Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, Vol. 1, p. 301). Any Mason will tell you with conviction that Masonry demands a belief in God. But is it clear which "god" they are accepting? Are they teaching and preaching about the God of the Bible?Mackey and McClenachan write, "Be assured ... that God is equally present with the pious Hindoo in the temple, the Jew in the synagogue, the Mohammedan in the mosque, and the Christian in the church" (Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, Vol. 1, p. 301).

In this statement we have "God" equally present as the pagan gods of Hinduism, the god of Islam through Mohammed, the God whom the Jews in reality rejected through the Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of the Christian faith. This is not a biblical view of God. But that does not bother the Masonic leadership. They take pride in their world-wide ecumenism. When asked about the acceptance of all monotheistic faiths and the toleration of them, they answered "Absolutely - and proud of it!" (Questions and Answers, The Northern Light, February, 1993, p. 19).

The Old Testament Israelites received a clear understanding that there is only One God. Deuteronomy 6:4 reads "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD..." Deuteronomy 4:35 reads "Unto thee it was shewed, that thou mightest know that the LORD he is God; there is none else beside him." Isaiah 44:6 teaches "Thus saith the LORD the King of Israel, and his redeemer the LORD of hosts; I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God." Isaiah 45:18 reads "For thus saith the LORD that created the heavens; God himself that formed the earth and made it; he hath established it, he created it not in vain, he formed it to be inhabited: I am the LORD; and there is none else."

In the New Testament this central truth is continued. John 17:3 says "And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent." In John 10:30, the Lord Jesus says "I and my Father are one" There are also references to the Triune Godhead in Matthew 3:16-17, 28:18-20; 1 Cor. 12:3-7; Eph. 4:4-6 and 1 Peter 1:2.
Thus, the Scriptures clearly teach the uniqueness of the One True God, manifest in three Persons of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost, each equally and entirely God. In this Triune Godhead, there is no additional room or reason to have more company of any sort!
As we have seen, there is only One God, and He alone is to be worshipped, then all other must descend from the god of this world, Lucifer (cf. 2 Cor. 4:4; Eph. 2:2; 1 Tim. 4:1). But, since Freemasons clearly have a different view of "God" than the Biblical view, we must ask, Which god(s) do they worship?

The god of Freemasonry is represented by what they call, the "Lost Word." In their "secret" writings it often appears like this -- T. G. A. O. T. U. which stands for "The Great Architect of the Universe." But what is the name of this god? It is stated that Freemasonry uses three names together as a single name "JAOBULON," using the Name of YHWH or Jehovah, the God of the Bible along with the pagan gods Baal and Osiris. Thus, the One true God is dethroned and demoted to a level He condemned in the Scriptures (see 2 Kings 17). In Freemasonry, the name JAOBULON is so sacred that no Mason can pronounce more than one syllable at a time!
Pike further clarifies, "Masonry, around whose altars the Christian, the Hebrew, the Moslem, the Brahmin, the followers of Confucius and Zoroaster, can assemble as brethren and unite in prayer to one God who is above all the Baalim, must needs leave it to each of its Initiates to look for the foundation of his faith and hope to the written scriptures of his own religion." (Morals and Dogma, p. 226). Thus, every God and god is acceptable to the Mason, and believers in each God and god can unite as brethren! Which is the one God above all Baalim? The word "Baalim" denotes all gods or deities. Apparently, the individual Mason decides which is the God above all others. Thus, any conglomeration of "gods" can serve as the god of Freemasonry.

In Exodus 20:3-5 the Scriptures declare, "Thou shalt have no other gods before me. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in the heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me." Thus, the Masonic view of the God of the Bible makes them Biblically unacceptable as an organization or a religion!
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God the Son -- Jesus Christ

It is interesting to note that the Encyclopedia of Freemasonry by Mackey and McClenachan does not have the Lord Jesus Christ listed. Additionally, the other works, including Arthur E. Waite's A New Encyclopedia of Freemasonry and Robert Macoy's General History, Cyclopedia and Dictionary of Freemasonry did not have a reference to Jesus Christ the Lord either.
I have found that the Lord Jesus Christ is omitted from the Masonic doctrinal system. He is obviously not recognized as God incarnate and Savior of the world. Note, for example, the status given to the Lord Jesus Christ by Masonic author Albert Pike: "And as little do we tell the sincere Christian that Jesus of Nazareth was but a man like us, or His history but the unreal revival of an older legend." (Morals and Dogma, p. 524). This illustration Pike uses presents the denial of the Deity of the Lord Jesus, places Him on the same status as any man, and calls Him a legend! Pike continues, "Nor is it within its province to determine how the ultimate triumph of Light and Truth and Good, over Darkness and Error and Evil, is to be achieved; nor whether the Redeemer, looked and longed for by all nations, hath appeared in Judea, or is yet to come." (Morals and Dogma, p. 525). Did the Lord Jesus, the Redeemer through the Cross of Calvary in Jerusalem of Judea, come already? The Bible clearly and authoritatively teaches that He did. But not necessarily, according to Pike!

Several warnings are given in Scripture concerning heretical views about Christ. For example, 2 Peter 2:1 states "But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction." 1 John 2:22-23 teaches "Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son. Whosoever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father: [but] he that acknowledgeth the Son hath the Father also." 1 John 5:20 reads "And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life."

Since Freemasonry is a religious organization, and it does not have Jesus Christ as its Foundation, it is to be utterly rejected! (see Matthew 12:30 and John 12:48 below). If a religious entity is not for the Lord Jesus Christ, it is against Him!
Occasionally Freemasonry discloses the information that Jesus Christ is recognized as God in the higher degrees. Should that change the view of Freemasonry? The answer is a resounding no, and here is why.

First, if He is recognized as God, which God (god) is He recognized as? Mohammed? Baal? Osiris? Since the Masonic doctrine of God is faulty (see section on God the Father, above) their doctrine of the Lord Jesus is also faulty.
Second, Jesus Christ stands alone as the way to eternal life, not one way among many. He came to "... seek and to save that which was lost," Luke 19:10. Additionally, the Bible teaches that a saving knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ is open to all, not hidden to all except a select few in the higher degrees of Masonry.

Third, An affirmation of any other god annuls true belief in the Deity of the Lord Jesus Christ. Acts 4:12 teaches "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved."

Alva J. McClain says it clearly: "...if Masonry does not confess Jesus Christ, then Masonry does not confess the true God. And if Masonry does not confess the true God, then Masonry confesses a false god. And if Masonry confesses a false god, let us be plain and call Masonry what it really is, by its own utterances, in light of the Bible - nothing but paganism and idolatry!" (emphasis his) . (Freemasonry and Christianity, p. 19). This position is clearly supported by Matthew 12:30, "He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad," and John 12:48, "He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day."
Thus, the view of Freemasonry concerning the Lord Jesus Christ reveals that they are not Biblically acceptable as an organization or a religion! They deny the very Foundation of Christianity.
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Salvation

How does a Freemason believe he is saved? First, they allow each person to believe as their religion believes. In answer to the question "Does Freemasonry teach that man can be saved by good works?" the response included "Within their lodges, Freemasons are not concerned with salvation and conversion, but with taking men as they are and pointing them in the direction of brotherhood and moral improvement. Insofar as the Order is successful in this aim, it is content, and leaves the member to devote himself to his own religious faith to receive the grace of salvation" (Questions and Answers, The Northern Light, February 1993, p. 19).

Obviously, there are some discrepancies in this answer. And, when you add to this Freemasonry's denial of the Lord Jesus Christ as the Son of God who came to offer Himself as a sacrifice so man can be saved, the entire doctrine of salvation in Freemasonry has already been biblically destroyed. Jesus taught, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life," John 5:24. In fact, apart from the Lord Jesus Christ, "...no man can come unto the Father..." John 14:6.

As stated above, Freemasonry does promote, at least superficially, moral improvement. I say superficially because true moral improvement can only come through a right relationship with Jesus Christ the Lord. Jesus dealt with the "moral improvement" philosophy in a confrontation with the Pharisees. He said, "Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness," Matthew 23:27. The Pharisees promoted good behavior and appeared pure on the outside, but they defiled within! Freemasonry promotes this kind of moral improvement in my estimation.
Second, It is plain to see from the afore mentioned quote from Questions and Answers that Freemasonry is not concerned with repentance, conversion and faith in Jesus Christ . How can they be, since He is denied? Christ is, through His work on the cross of Calvary and His resurrection, the only Way to true righteousness and eternal life. Any other means of seeking to obtain righteousness and eternal life are wrong! Ultimately, Freemasonry is not concerned with true righteousness and purity but promotes a superficial, false righteousness that Christ condemned.

This brings to mind a perplexing question. How can a professing Christian who is a Mason remain silent to his "peers" about God's special grace and love revealed in the person of Jesus Christ? Do Christians receive "off time" from sharing the Gospel? No! Believers are commanded to be witnesses for Christ Jesus their Lord. He is to be the center of everything, preeminent, in every area of the believer’s life (Colossians 1:18). Believers are commanded by God to share the Gospel (Matt. 28:19-20 & 2 Cor. 5:20) and not leave men to wander in the darkness of a religious faith that does not point them to salvation in Christ.

That brings us to another issue. In the Questions and Answers article noted earlier it also says, Freemasonry is concerned "...with taking men as they are and pointing them in the direction of brotherhood..." The believer must ask, "Does the Bible promote the brotherhood of all men?" The answer is absolutely NO! The Bible does not promote the brotherhood of all men, but rather teaches the propagation of the gospel to all men. The fact is that the Bible teaches separation from those of unbiblical faith and practices. Romans 16:17 reads, "Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them." 2 Cor. 6:14-15 reads "Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?" While the Masons label this as unloving and contentious, God’s command in the Bible is to be obeyed!

A careful examination of the Masonic view of the Bible, God the Father, God the Son and salvation, Freemasonry has demonstrated that as an organization or as a religious entity, they are Biblically unacceptable according to the standard of God's Word, and should be rejected. The Bible warns of this kind of doctrine! 2 John 7-11 reads, "For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds."
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The Offer of Biblical Salvation

If you are reading this report and you have not yet received Jesus Christ as your Savior, please allow me to show you from the Bible how you can be in a right relationship with God. The decision to accept or reject Jesus Christ as Savior is the most important decision you will ever make, as the results will last for eternity!

Where We Must Begin

You need to realize that you are a sinner. This is not a popular truth today, but it is a biblical truth! Romans 3:23 says, "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." Is there ever anything you have done in your life that is bad, wrong or unacceptable? Likely, everybody can think of many. These things are called sins against God!

You need to recognize that there is a penalty for sin. Romans 6:23 begins by saying, "For the wages of sin is death..." When you work, you receive a wage at the end of the pay period. The wage is something you merit for your labors. Sin also receives a wage, and the wage is death! We often think of death as physical death, which is separation of body and soul; but that is only the first aspect of death. The second is far worse, which is separation between you and God. If you reject Jesus Christ as Savior, you will stand before Him at the Great White Throne Judgment, be found guilty of your sins, and receive the wage of the second death, as something you "merit" for your sins, in the Lake of Fire or Hell -- forever! Revelation 20:11-15 reads "And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire." What a terrible promise awaits those who reject Christ! But thankfully, the Bible doesn't stop with the message of judgment.

God sent His Son to die for the sins of mankind. Above we said the "wages of sin is death." Jesus Christ died on the cross of Calvary, and paid the wages due! Romans 5:8 says, "But God commendeth (proved) his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." When Jesus Christ died on the cross, He demonstrated that "...He by the grace of God should taste death for every man," Hebrews 2:9. Jesus died physically and spiritually on the cross and bore the entire penalty every man deserves.

Though Jesus died and paid the price for sin, mankind does not automatically receive eternal life. It must be accepted by faith. Saving faith involves the placing of your trust in Jesus Christ alone, as the God Man Who died on the cross and rose again! Have you called upon Him to save you? Romans 10:13 reads, "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."
If you have not accepted Christ as Savior and you desire to, use the following example prayer as your guide. This prayer will not save you -- it is merely a way of demonstrating that you believe in Jesus Christ as God who died and rose again for you!

"Heavenly Father, I realize that I am a sinner, and that I cannot save myself. I believe that Jesus Christ, Your Son, died on the cross and rose again so I could have my sins forgiven, and inherit eternal life. I now want to ask You to forgive me for my sins through the blood of Jesus Christ, and want Him to be my Savior. Thank You Lord, for the precious gift given to me. In Jesus' Name, Amen."

If you have just accepted Jesus Christ as Savior, welcome to the family of God! It is important for you to become involved in a good church that believes, teaches and preaches from the Bible. Read your Bible regularly, as it is God's way of sharing His Word with you. (You may wish to start in the Gospel of John). Pray, as it is your way of talking to God. Please inform us of your decision by contacting LOGOS Communications so we can send you literature that can help you start living a life that will please God!
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QUESTION #3 Should a Christian be a Mason?

The previous section stated four reasons why Freemasonry was not acceptable as an organization or a religion for believers in Jesus Christ - their view of the Bible, God the Father, God the Son and salvation. Regardless of what Masons may tell you about their organization as a religion, their own writings concur that they are a religion, and they teach doctrine and practices that are incompatible with Biblical Christianity.

Freemasonry recognizes "gods" that the Bible clearly forbids, and demands the worship of them, e.g. the use of the names "T. G. A. O. T. U." and "JAOBULON." Additionally, they demand the acceptance of all gods of all religions. Can a Christian claim another god and be obedient to the True God? Joshua commanded succinctly, "And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD," Joshua 24:15. Elijah also issued a challenge: "And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt ye between two opinions? if the LORD be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him. And the people answered him not a word," 1Kings 18:21. God has not chosen to be One choice among many choices, and He has always condemned the practice. If you know the True God of the Bible through Jesus Christ, do not allow yourself to sin against Him and be "... between two opinions."

There is also a denial of the Lord Jesus Christ in Masonry. Though there are many references to pagan gods in the writings of Masonry, there is little or no mention of the Lord Jesus Christ. In the charge that is read during the opening of a lodge meeting, 1 Peter 2:5 is read in part. The full verse reads, 1 Peter 2:5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. But the last three words from: "by Jesus Christ" are omitted. This omission is at best a very serious error! However, as you study Freemasonry, the omission falls into place with the accepted view of Jesus Christ..

Alva McClain challenges us with a noteworthy illustration: "Suppose I should start an organization here in this church with secret work and several degrees. The first three degrees would eliminate the name of Jesus Christ and demand that every candidate confess a god named T. G. A. O. T. U. We would accept Christians, Jews, Mohammedans, Buddhists. After they had passed the first three degrees, we would say 'Now, if you Christians want to get together and confess your Christ, go up in a room by yourselves. You Mohammedans do the same, and so forth. But don't drag your peculiar views into these three degrees.' That's what Masonry does. What a pitiful sop to throw to our blessed Lord Jesus Christ! As a Christian, I spurn it" (Freemasonry and Christianity, pp. 20-21).

Christian, realize that the accepted views of Freemasonry are incompatible with Christianity. If you are a Mason, you need to stop serving many gods, and commit yourself to serving the God who has purchased you with the blood of His Son, Jesus Christ. Go before the Lord, confess your sins to Him, and restore your fellowship with Him. The blessings that come from serving Him in life and ministry will infinitely surpass every supposed benefit that comes through Freemasonry - now, and for eternity!
Allow me to share two passages of scripture in closing --
Galatians 4:16 Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth?
John 8:32 teaches, "And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."
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http://www.cuttingedge.org/NEWS/n1144.cfm

http://pfo.org/masonldg.htm


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From http://www.padfield.com/1993/lodge.html


The Religion Of The Masonic Lodge

by David Padfield

The Masonic Lodge claims six million members worldwide. In its ranks you will find some of the greatest men in American history. Men like Henry Ford, General Douglas MacArthur, George Washington and 12 other U.S. presidents. You will also find doctors, lawyers, judges and, unfortunately, many Christians.

I have a great deal of respect for Freemasons as individuals. Many of my uncles are in the Lodge. While I respect these men, I hold their lodge in total abhorrence. It is an insidious evil for it duplicates the sin of Absalom when he "stole the hearts of the men of Israel" (2 Samuel 15:6). Masonry will steal the heart of a Christian. The Masonic temple is the temple of Baal, and at its altar unsuspecting men solemnly vow their lives to a pagan god.

If we can establish that Masonry is a religion, then surely any honest Christian would feel compelled to abandon the Lodge. God's prophet of old asked, "Can two walk together, except they be agreed?" (Amos 3:3). Can a man worship the God of Masonry and the God of the Bible at the same time? In Matthew 12:30 Jesus said, "He who is not with me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters abroad."

Is Masonry A Religion?

The answer to this question depends upon whom you ask. The Grand Lodge of Indiana publishes a small tract titled Freemasonry, A Way Of Life. This tract, given to outsiders, says, "Though religious in character, Masonry is not a religion, nor a substitute for one." This would be good, except the story changes after a man has become a Mason. For example, the Indiana Monitor says, "Freemasonry is a charitable, benevolent, educational, and religious society." The Kentucky Monitor goes even further when it states, "...as Masons we are taught that no man should ever enter upon any great or important undertaking without first invoking the blessing of Deity. This is because Masonry is a religious institution..." Albert Pike (a 33rd Degree Mason), one of the most celebrated Masonic scholars, claims that "every Masonic Lodge is a temple of religion; and its teachings are instruction in religion." (Morals and Dogma, p. 213). This book was published under the auspices of the Supreme Council of the Thirty-Third Degree of the Scottish Rite.

The problem is that the Lodge lies to candidates before their initiation. "Masonry, like all the Religions, all the Mysteries, Hereticism and Alchemy, conceals its secrets from all except the Adepts and Sages, or the Elect, and uses false explanations and misinterpretations of its symbols to mislead those who deserve only to be misled; to conceal the Truth, which it calls Light, from them, and to draw them away from it ... So Masonry jealously conceals its secrets, and intentionally leads conceited interpreters away." (Morals and Dogma, p. 105). Can you imagine a sane man joining any organization if he knew they were going to "intentionally" mislead him?
Another Masonic scholar, Albert Mackey (a 33rd Degree Mason), claims the only reason to defend Masonry is because of its religious element. "I contend, without any sort of hesitation, that Masonry is, in every sense of the word, except one, and that its least philosophical, an eminently religious institution that it is indebted solely to the religious element which it contains for its origin and for its continued existence, that without this religious element it would scarcely be worthy of cultivation by the wise and good." (Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, p. 727).

The Faith and Order Committee of the Methodist church has issued a report urging men not to join the Masonic Lodge since it is a "competitor of Christianity." The report also states, "There is a great danger that the Christian who becomes a Freemason will find himself compromising his Christian beliefs or his allegiance to Christ, perhaps without realizing what he is doing." (Evansville Courier, June 13, 1985). If the Methodist church can understand this, why can't some of my brethren? Listen to Paul in 2 Corinthians 6:14, "Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers, For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness?"

Attitude Towards The Bible

One of my greatest concerns about the Lodge is its attitude towards the Bible. "The Volume of the Sacred Law is an indispensable part of the furniture of a Lodge. In our jurisdiction it is usually the Bible, but any candidate not a Christian may have substituted for it any other volume which he considers sacred: e.g., the Old Testament, Koran, Vedas, or Laws of Confucius. In one lodge in China, there are three Sacred Books open on the altar at the same time, and the candidate elects one of the three on which he is obligated." (Indiana Monitor, p. 38). While the Bible might be described in various ways, it is not a piece of furniture! It is the source of all religious truth. It is the book of God (2 Tim. 3:16-17).

When a candidate bows before the Masonic altar he kisses the "Volume of Sacred Law." This volume can be any book he deems to be religious. "The explanation of the presence of the Holy Bible on the altar could not tell the whole story, although true in itself. It represents the Sacred Book of the Law, but has not exclusive rights as such on the altar of Freemasonry, for the supremely sane reason that no one religion has exclusive rights within the Fraternity. The Vedas of the Brahman, the Zend-Avesta of the Parsee, the Koran of the Mohammedan, have, among Masons of these faiths, as rightful a place upon our altar as the Holy Bible. In any faith, however, its Sacred Book of Law is the symbol of man's acknowledgement of and his relation to Deity. And in this universality of Masonry we find one of our greatest lessons: Toleration." (The Entered Apprentice, Grand Lodge of Indiana, p. 14). This toleration is too much for any man who claims to be a Christian.

Barbaric Oaths

If nothing else, the oath a man takes when he joins the Lodge ought to forever settle the question, "Can A Christian Be A Mason?" While blindfolded, half naked and kneeling at the altar, the candidate takes an oath swearing he will never reveal the "secrets of the Lodge." The oath ends with these words: "I furthermore promise and swear that I will not write, print, stamp, stain, cut, carve, hew, mark or engrave them on anything moveable or immovable, capable of receiving the least impression of a sign, word, syllable, letter or character, whereby they may become legible or intelligible to any person under the canopy of heaven, and the secrets of Masonry be thereby unlawfully obtained by my unworthiness. All this I most solemnly and sincerely promise and swear, with a firm and steadfast resolution to keep the same, without the least equivocation, mental reservation or secret evasion whatsoever, binding myself under no less penalty than that of having my throat cut from ear to ear, my tongue torn out by its roots and buried in the sands of the sea at low water mark, where the tide ebbs and flows twice in twenty-four hours, should I in the least, knowingly or wittingly, violate or transgress this my Entered Apprentice Obligation. So help me God and keep me steadfast." (King Solomon's Temple, Indiana edition, pp. 24, 25).

What a contrast to our Lord who said "do not swear at all ... but let your 'Yes' be 'Yes' and your 'No' be 'No.'" (Matt. 5:33-37).
To those who are in the Lodge, let me beg you to heed the words of Paul and "come out from among them and be separate" (2 Cor. 6:17).

The Religion Of The Masonic Lodge, a very detailed sermon outline which explains that the Masonic Lodge is a religion -- a religion that is not compatible with the religion of Jesus Christ. The lesson explores the "secret" ritual of the Blue Lodge and the barbaric oaths that are taken at the Masonic altar. Freemasonry is a pagan religion and Hiram Abiff is a false saviour (PDF file size: 292k).

This article is also available as a free Bible tract that you can reprint.
You can also read an article on Captain William Morgan, a man who was filled by Freemasons in Batavia, New York.
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