Freemasonry is one of the oldest and most complex secret fraternal organizations, often associated with the Luciferian community. Although Freemasonry and similar organizations like the Eastern Star may seem to be harmless fellowship gatherings and often appear to promote belief in God, they do not adhere to the belief in the one true God. Rather, each member is encouraged to “act with courage, fidelity, and devotion to his god” (See Freemason's Website). Freemasonry teaches the existence of a “Supreme Being,” which can be interpreted as the god of any religion, be it Islam, Hinduism, or others. The unbiblical beliefs of Masonry are partially hidden by a supposed compatibility with the Christian faith.
For Christians, understanding the origins, beliefs, practices, and connections of Freemasonry is crucial to discern its alignment or divergence from biblical principles. This brief article aims to provide a thorough overview of Freemasons, their background, beliefs, and their connections with the Illuminati. We will also explore its rituals, symbols, and the key concerns for Christians.
The Origins: From the Tower of Babel to Modern Freemasonry
Freemasonry's origins are somewhat obscure, with various theories suggesting different beginnings. Some link its origin to the Tower of Babel, as described in Genesis 11:1-9. The Tower of Babel was humanity's attempt to reach the heavens and make a name for themselves, defying God’s command to spread across the earth. In response, God confused their language and scattered them. The themes of building and seeking esoteric knowledge in Freemasonry parallel the defiance at Babel.
However, the most widely accepted theory is that it evolved from the stonemason guilds of the Middle Ages. These guilds were responsible for constructing cathedrals and other significant buildings. Over time, these operative masons (actual builders) began to accept non-operative members, leading to the establishment of speculative Freemasonry, focused on moral and philosophical teachings rather than the literal craft of stonemasonry.
Freemasonry as we know it today began to take shape in the early 18th century, with the formation of the Grand Lodge of England in 1717, marking the beginning of organized Freemasonry. This period saw the creation of various Masonic rites and degrees, each with its own rituals and symbols. Modern Freemasonry broadly consists of two main branches: Regular Freemasonry, which insists on the existence of a Supreme Being and prohibits women from membership, and Continental Freemasonry, which is more liberal and often open to women.
The Structure and Degrees of Freemasonry
Freemasonry is organized into a series of degrees, each representing a step in the journey of personal enlightenment and moral development. The three initial degrees, known as the Blue Lodge, are:
- Entered Apprentice: The first degree, focusing on the initiate's introduction to the principles of Freemasonry.
- Fellowcraft: The second degree, emphasizing the importance of education and the development of intellectual faculties.
- Master Mason: The third degree, symbolizing maturity and the completion of the initial phase of Masonic education.
Beyond the Blue Lodge, there are additional degrees and rites, the most prominent being the Scottish Rite and the York Rite. The Scottish Rite includes 33 degrees, with the 33rd degree being the highest and most prestigious. Achieving the 33rd degree signifies a high level of dedication, service, and mastery within the organization.
Rituals and Symbols in Freemasonry
Freemasonry is rich in rituals and symbols, many of which have deep, esoteric meanings. These symbols include:
- The Square and Compasses: Representing morality and the boundaries of human behavior.
- The Letter G: Often seen within the Square and Compasses, symbolizing both God and Geometry.
- The All-Seeing Eye: Representing the omniscient eye of God watching over humanity.
Rituals in Freemasonry often involve symbolic actions, oaths, and teachings that may conflict with Christian beliefs. For example, the emphasis on secret knowledge and enlightenment outside of the biblical framework can be concerning. Proverbs 2:6 states, "For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding," highlighting that true wisdom and understanding come from God alone.
The Connection with the Illuminati
The Illuminati, another secretive organization often linked with Freemasonry, was founded in the late 18th century by Adam Weishaupt, who was also a Freemason. The Illuminati aimed to promote Enlightenment ideals, secularism, and the overthrow of religious and monarchical authority. While distinct from Freemasonry, the two groups are often associated due to their similar structures, secrecy, and use of common symbols.
Freemasonry and the Illuminati share common themes of seeking knowledge and enlightenment, but their methods and underlying philosophies can conflict with Christian doctrine. The Bible warns against secretive societies and hidden knowledge. Ephesians 5:11 advises, "Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them."
Key Concerns for Christians
Belief in God: Freemason don’t believe in one true God, but in a “Supreme Being”. They often speak of a "Great Architect of the Universe" rather than directly referring to God. This term is intended to be inclusive of various faiths, allowing members of different religious backgrounds to participate. In fact, the so-called Great (or Grand) Architect of the Universe is representative of all gods in all religions. However, this inclusivity can be problematic for Christians, as it tends to equate all deities, which contradicts the Bible's teaching of one true God (Isaiah 45:5)
View of the Bible: According to Freemasons, the Bible is just one of seven commonly used Volumes of Sacred Law (VSLs), all considered equally important. The Holy Book of any religion may be used as a VSL, provided that it teaches, and its adherents believe in a Supreme Being. They argue that the Bible is significant, but only for those members who identify as Christians. It is not regarded as the exclusive Word of God or His sole revelation. However, 2 Timothy 3:16-17 affirms that the Bible is the only inspired, infallible, inerrable, and authoritative word of God.
Sin and Salvation: Through symbols and emblems, Masons teach that man is not inherently sinful but is on a journey of self-improvement. They believe humans can progress from imperfection towards total perfection. Masonic teachings imply that moral uprightness and good deeds are enough for salvation. This belief contradicts the core Christian doctrine that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ alone (Ephesians 2:8-9). The Bible clearly demonstrates that man is sinful. Romans 3:23 states, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Additionally, Jeremiah 17:9 says, "The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?" These scriptures highlight humanity's inherent sinfulness and the need for salvation through Jesus Christ.
View about Jesus: According to Freemasonry, there is no exclusivity in Jesus Christ or the Triune God who is the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. According to them, there exist many Christs. In fact, Jesus is equated to persons in pagan religions: The Hindus called him Krishna; the Chinese, Kioun-tse; the Persians, Sosiosch; the Chaldeans, Dhouvanai; the Egyptians, Horus; Plato, Love; the Scandinavians, Balder; the Christians, Jesus; Masons, Hiram. In their belief system, Jesus is just one of many equally wise prophets as listed above. However, the Bible clearly teaches that Jesus is the only Christ and that salvation is found in no one else but Him. Acts 4:12 states, "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved."
Secretive Nature: Freemasonry's focus on secrecy and exclusive knowledge is a concern for Christians. Jesus taught transparency and openness, as seen in Matthew 5:14-16, where He encourages believers to let their light shine before others. Freemasonry requires members to take oaths of secrecy, pledging not to reveal the organization's inner workings. Jesus, however, advised against taking oaths, advocating for straightforward communication (Matthew 5:34-37).
Oaths and Rituals: The oaths and rituals required in Freemasonry may conflict with Christian teachings. Matthew 5:34-37 instructs believers not to swear oaths, but to let their 'yes' be 'yes,' and their 'no,' 'no.'
Spiritual Allegiances: The spiritual allegiances and symbols in Freemasonry can be at odds with Christian faith. 1 Corinthians 10:21 warns, "You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons too; you cannot have a part in both the Lord's table and the table of demons."
Moral Relativism: Freemasonry promotes moral development and the pursuit of personal enlightenment, often emphasizing a form of moral relativism. However, the Bible teaches absolute moral truths given by God. Isaiah 5:20 warns, "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness."
Universalism: Freemasonry often promotes a form of religious universalism, suggesting that all religions are equally valid paths to God. This conflicts with the exclusive claims of Christianity. Jesus said in John 14:6, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."
Biblical Perspective on Secret Societies
The Bible provides clear guidance on how Christians should view secret societies and hidden knowledge. Deuteronomy 29:29 states, "The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may follow all the words of this law." This emphasizes that true knowledge and wisdom come from God and are revealed in His Word.
Furthermore, 2 Corinthians 6:14-15 instructs, "Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? What harmony is there between Christ and Belial? Or what does a believer have in common with an unbeliever?" This passage highlights the importance of maintaining a clear distinction between Christian faith and practices that are contrary to it.
Conclusion
Freemasonry, with its secretive practices, inclusive theology, and emphasis on moralism, presents several challenges to orthodox Christian beliefs. It is crucial for Christians to adhere strictly to the teachings of the Bible, recognizing Jesus Christ as the sole source of salvation and rejecting any organization that promotes contrary doctrines. By swearing the Masonic oath and participating in the rituals of the lodge, Christians are perpetuating a false gospel. Even if the Christian Mason knows the truth and believes in Christ, other lodge members are trusting in Freemasonry’s plan of salvation to get to heaven. By his membership in a syncretistic organization, the Christian has severely compromised his witness. While the pursuit of moral development and brotherhood is commendable, any path that diverges from the teachings of the Bible should be approached with caution. As believers, our ultimate allegiance is to God and His revealed Word.
In all things, Christians are called to seek wisdom from God, who generously provides it to those who ask (James 1:5). By staying rooted in Scripture and prayer, we can navigate the complexities of organizations like Freemasonry with clarity and faithfulness to our Lord. Let us remember the words of Colossians 2:8, "See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ."
Masonry contradicts the clear teaching of Scripture on numerous issues. As a result, a Christian should not be a member of any organization that has any connection with Freemasonry. By understanding the core beliefs and practices of Freemasonry and how they conflict with biblical teachings, Christians can make informed decisions and remain steadfast in their faith. Let us remember the words of Jesus: "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me" (John 14:6), and hold firmly to the truth revealed in God's Word. May we always seek to glorify God in all we do, remaining steadfast in our commitment to His truth.
Related Articles
- Who Are the Committee of 300 in the Worldly Hierarchy?
- Who Are Illuminati and What Are the Illuminati’s 13 Bloodline Families?
- Are the 21 Goals of Illuminati Being Implemented in the Global Context?
- Is the One-World Religion an Apostate Feature of the End Times Scenario?
- Who is the Antichrist: the second person in Satan's unholy trinity of the end times?
- How Does Alice Bailey's Ten Point Plan, Allegedly Linked to the Illuminati, Threaten Christianity?
- Are Blueprints for Global Governance and Sustainable Development Fulfilling Biblical Prophecy?
Further Resources
- Explore Online Ministry Opportunities at Open Christian Ministries (USA)
- Explore Christian Business Services at the Center for Faith and Work (Rwanda)
- Pursue an Affordable Online Christian Degree at Open Christian University (USA)
- Kindly Share Your Question for Consideration in Future Articles. Click Here to Submit
- Ask a Question or Utilize Our Trained AI Bot to Craft Your Evangelical Article - Begin Here
Comments ()