The Shriners – Who are they?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

The Shriners, formally known as the Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine (AAONMS), is a fraternal organization established in 1872, primarily known for its philanthropy, particularly in providing medical care for children through its network of hospitals. Members, who must first be Freemasons, are easily recognized by their distinctive red fezzes and often participate in various social and community activities, including parades and fundraising events. While the Bible doesn't directly mention the Shriners or Freemasonry, it does provide principles for evaluating organizations and their beliefs. Scripture cautions against participating in practices that compromise one's faith (2 Corinthians 6:14–18) and encourages believers to test everything against God's truth (1 Thessalonians 5:21–22). The Bible also teaches that Jesus Christ is the only way to salvation (John 14:6) and that we should not associate with secret or deceptive practices (Ephesians 5:11–12).

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• Exodus 20:3: "You shall have no other gods before me." This commandment stands against any practice or belief that puts anything above the one true God.
• Deuteronomy 18:9–13: "When you come into the land that the LORD your God is giving you, you shall not learn to follow the abominable practices of those nations." This passage cautions against adopting practices of other cultures that go against God's commands.

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• Second Corinthians 6:14: "Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?" Believers are commanded to be cautious about close associations with those who don't share their faith.
• Colossians 2:8: "See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ." Paul warns against philosophies that aren't centered on Christ.
• First John 4:1: "Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world." This verse encourages discernment in spiritual matters.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

While the Shriners are known for their charitable work, particularly their hospitals for children, their connection to Freemasonry raises concerns for many Christians. Believers should be aware that participation in organizations with secretive practices or beliefs that don't align with biblical truth can compromise their faith. And while charitable work is commendable, Christians should be discerning about the underlying beliefs and practices of organizations they support or join. Good deeds alone don't justify participation in groups that may hold beliefs contrary to Christian doctrine.

UNDERSTAND

• The Shriners are a fraternal organization, recognized for their charitable work, particularly in children's healthcare.
• Membership in the Shriners requires prior initiation as Freemasons.
• Christians are also called to be charitable because of who God is.

REFLECT

• How do you personally discern which organizations align with God’s Word?
• How can you engage in charitable work that reflects our faith and commitment to biblical principles?
• Have you ever felt pressured to join a group or organization that did not align with your beliefs, and how did you handle that situation?

ENGAGE

• As of 2023, there are approximately 200,000 Shriners worldwide, with membership primarily concentrated in the United States and Canada. The organization is particularly popular in regions with a strong history of Freemasonry, such as the Southern and Midwestern states.
• What are some of the potential risks for believers in participating in organizations with ties to secretive and ungodly beliefs and practices, like the Shriners?
• How can we effectively evaluate the beliefs and practices of organizations we may consider supporting?
• INCLUDE ARTICLE LINK: https://www.compellingtruth.org/Shriners.html