Freemasonary and the Bible

Is Masonry Compatible With Christianity?

Apr 4, 2009 Jonathan Taylor

Many Christian leaders in churches are also Freemasons. Therefore is it possible to determine whether the rituals practises endorsed are consistent with Christianity?

The Brotherhood by Stephen Knight is a compelling read and quite an eye opener as it mentions the influence of Freemasons in various sectors of society in Britain involving the police, law courts and various occupations. It also claims that Masons are bound under oath to demonstrate preferential treatment to one another.

In addition some Masons have come out of the lodges and converted to Christianity. Others have explained exactly what occurs during lodge meetings. Traditionally Freemasonry has often been secretive though more recently more books concerning what happens in meetings are being published. However the church not a secretive organisation as it is one of the few organizations that does not exist primarily for its members. In the Gospels the great commission encourages the preaching of the Gospel to every creature, starting at Judea, then Samaria and the ends of the earth.

Whilst Freemasons are often extensively involved in charitable works, membership is by invitation only, secrets are guarded closely by binding oaths and punishment for giving away those secrets can be severe.

Freemasonry and Symbolism

There are thirty three degrees or levels in freemasonry and the majority of Masons only progress as far as the first three degrees. The mason will enter a lodge which has a chequered floor. The chequered floor is symbolic of dualism between dark and light, black and white, good and evil, god is both good and bad and it is remarkably similar to yin and yang and many Asian religions where there is no right and wrong prevailing but an endless struggle of dualism in the universe. What does 1 John 1v5 say? "God is light and in Him is no darkness at all."

Several holy books may be used in various lodges. This could be a Bible, Qu'ran, or a book from any major faith. However the Bible contains exclusive and objective claims that are difficult to reconcile with other worldviews. For example, Jesus said "I am the way, the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father but by Me."(John 14:6) In fact the Bible teaches that people shouldn't swear oaths which includes any holy book.

The Name Jah-bul-On

If a mason advances beyond the three elementary degrees they may be taught secret names and rituals. One in particular name is Jah-Bul-On.

This name is derived from:

  • Jah - Yahweh the God of the Bible
  • Bul - Baal who Elijah won a victory against in 1 Kings 18
  • On - Osrisis Egyptian sun god

Though some Masons may contend that this is purely a name used on occasions and that Jah Bul On is not worshipped, it would prove difficult to justify its use if Freemasonry is compatible with Christianity.

If a Mason advances beyond the thirtieth degree it is likely they will be taught that Jesus and Lucifer are brothers. Nevertheless this is never taught in Scripture and the religious believe that it is clear from God’s word that Jesus has always existed and Satan was a created being. The idea that Jesus and Satan are brothers has no Scriptural support.

Freemasonry and the Church

If someone is in a church where there are Freemasons among their number it would be helpful to compare scripture with what is taught in the lodge. Some believe that it is apparent that Freemasons should not be permitted in church leadership of any form for the reasons listed above as the two are not compatible.

The copyright of the article Freemasonary and the Bible in Protestantism is owned by Jonathan Taylor. Permission to republish Freemasonary and the Bible in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
Freemasonry And The Bible?, Morguefile Freemasonry And The Bible?
   
What do you think about this article?

NOTE: Because you are not a Suite101 member, your comment will be moderated before it is viewable.
post your comment
What is 3+10?