What do Free Masons believe? What is Freemasonry?

TL;DR:

Freemasonry is a fraternal organization that promotes belief in a supreme being, but its teachings conflict with core Christian doctrines, making it incompatible with biblical Christianity.

Freemasonry is one of many modern pseudo-religious organizations that the Bible doesn't directly identify, but there are clear teachings on key doctrinal issues that conflict with Masonic beliefs. Scripture affirms monotheism and the exclusive worship of the God of the Bible (Exodus 20:3; Isaiah 43:10). It teaches that salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone, not by works (Ephesians 2:8–9; John 14:6). The Bible presents itself as the inspired, authoritative Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16–17; 2 Peter 1:20–21). It also clearly defines the nature of God as Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19; 2 Corinthians 13:14). These biblical teachings stand in contrast to various Masonic beliefs and practices.

from the old testament

Exodus 20:3: "You shall have no other gods before me." This commandment establishes the exclusive worship of the God of the Bible, contrasting with Freemasonry's more inclusive view of deity.
Deuteronomy 6:4–5: "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might." This affirms monotheism and total devotion to the one true God, which conflicts with Masonic teachings about deity.
Isaiah 43:10: "'You are my witnesses,' declares the LORD, 'and my servant whom I have chosen, that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he. Before me no god was formed, nor shall there be any after me.'" This verse emphasizes the uniqueness and exclusivity of the biblical God, contradicting Freemasonry's more inclusive view of deity.

from the new testament

John 14:6: "Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'" Jesus’s statement here conflicts with Freemasonry's acceptance of multiple paths to God.
Acts 4:12: "And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved." This verse emphasizes the exclusivity of salvation through Jesus Christ, contrary to Masonic teachings.
Ephesians 2:8–9: "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." This passage clearly states that salvation is by faith alone, not by works, opposing Masonic teachings about salvation.

implications for today

It’s essential to examine organizations and belief systems in light of Scripture, even when they appear benevolent or claim compatibility with Christianity. Christians must prioritize biblical truth over social or fraternal connections, which can potentially lead to difficult decisions about organizational memberships. There’s always a need for discernment in a pluralistic society where various belief systems often blend or overlap. For churches and Christian leaders, this knowledge can guide pastoral care and counsel for those involved in or considering Freemasonry and help reaffirm core Christian doctrines and the sufficiency of Christ and Scripture.

understand

Freemasonry supports belief in a supreme being but does not exclusively identify it with the God of the Bible.
Freemasonry suggests salvation can be achieved through good works, while Christianity teaches that salvation is solely by grace through faith in Jesus Christ.
Freemasonry's view of God is not aligned with the Christian doctrine of the Trinity.

reflect

What differences do you understand between Christianity and Freemasonry?
How can you approach discussions with those involved in Freemasonry or similar organizations while remaining true to the Bible?
How are you challenged by religious systems that appear to be good or do good?

engage

How might Freemasonry's beliefs influence societal views on morality, ethics, and spirituality in ways that could challenge or complement biblical teachings?
What does the Bible reveal about the exclusivity of Christ in contrast to Freemasonry's inclusivity?
How does the tension between faith and works, as seen in the teachings of Freemasonry and Christianity, affect our understanding of salvation and spiritual growth?
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