Special issue on Masonry Christian J^ews

Vol. 31, No. 21 Monday, May 24,1993

Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod: Christianity Is The Oniy True and Saving Faith Masonry Is Anti-Christian says that the LCMS "has declared "A showdown on Freema- itself firmly opposed to all socie- sonry's incompatibiHty with ties, lodges, and organizations of Christianity is coming at next an unchristian or anti-Christian month's Southern Baptist Con- character." vention" reports the May 17 The LCMS declares in a sec- Cliristianity Today. tion of its Handbook titled "Fra- Commenting on a report on ternal Organizations:" Pastors the issue by the SBC Home Mis- and laymen alike must avoid sion Board, Dr. James Holly, a membership or participation in Southern Baptist physician, says any organization that in its ob- that "Southern Baptists have jectives, ceremonies, or practices become the first Christian de- is inimical to the Gospel of Jesus nomination that essentially Christ or the faith and life or the blesses the Masonic Lodge." Christian church." Most major Christianity Today said that pastors and 18 per cent ofdeacon Protestant denominations allow "Holly belieVes the report is board chairs are Masons." their pastors and laymen to be compromised because HMB lead- Freemasonry is an anti-Chris- Masons. ers are fearful of a financial fall tian religion says The Lutheran The LCMS notes that Ma- out. Indeed, of the 3.5 million Church-Missouri Synod (LCMS). sonry conducts worship services, Masons in the nation, 1.3 million The constitution of this church has prayers and funeral services SpeciaJ RdittOM, "Freeniaswirj awl Rri^oR," Part U are Southern Baptists, accord- body says that its pastors and and insists masonry is therefore \1\V I'wi ing to Associated Baptist Press. laymen are not to join the Ma- a religion. It claims that the god Abner V McCall, 33*, President Harry S. Truman, 33" In addition 14 per cent of SBC sons. The LCMS constitution Continued on Page 14 Pres. Emeritus, Southern Baptist and Baylor University Freemason Southern Baptists: Pastors and Uembers May Join the Uasons It is the argument of Herbert M. Reynolds, 33°, Masons Praising SBC "Report on Freemasonry" this article that Ma- President, Baylor University sonry and Christianity Asked are two mutually exclu- Baptists to sive, incompatible reli- gious systems, and that Accept Report no human being can CONSISTENTLY BE BOTH a Christian and a "White-Washing" Masonry Mason. That many Pastors and laymen of the Christians appear to sonry are not compat- find no conflict, 'we Southern Baptist Convention ible with Christianity "Marnier l*r«sident Supports (SBC) will be allowed to remain grant. But such people Moderate Southern JBaptists" and Southern Baptist S«e page 22 of this issue. Masons if a report of the SBC's doctrine, while others misunderstand either Home Mission Board on Free- are compatible with Christianity or Ma- masonry is accepted next month sonry, or both. It is the "Former President Supports Christianity and South- Dr. Norman Vincent Peale, 33* Moderate Southern Baptist" at the SBC's convention in Hous- em Baptist doctrine, we argument and position ton, Texas. therefore recommend of the Church that no THE SCOTTISH RITE JOURNAL, THE SCOTTISH RITE JOtTRNAL, Some members of the SBC, that consistent with our one knows both what February, 1993 May, 1093 who believe that Masonry is anti- denomination's deep Christianity is and what Christian, say their Home Mis- conVictions regarding sion Board has "white-washed" Masonry is, can be both Masons May Be Christian Pastors the priesthood of the a Christian and a Ma- the Masons. The report, which is belieVer and the auton- in this issue of Christian News, omy of the local church, son." Professor Kurt concludes: membership in a Ma- Marquart, Christianity l\/lasonry Answers "In light of the fact sonic Order be a matter and Freemasonry, pp. that many tenets and 21-23. teachings of Freema- Continued on Page 2 Christian Critics Is Modern Masonry Anti- In response to a proposal to The Scottish Rite Journal. CN Christian, Yes or No? debate Christianity and Freema- sent a check to the publisher of A Freemasonry Is sonry, C. Fred Kleinknecht, 33° Pilgrim's Path but has not yet lUlasons B a c k O u t of Sovereign Grand Commander of received a copy of the book. the Supreme Council, Mother Masons have recently an- Still Anti-Christian Debate With Christian Council of The World, Ancient nounced that they are now going and Accepted Scottish Rite of to answer Christians who claim Initiation and Consummation: News and IVIorey Freemasonry, Southern Jurisdic- that Masonry is incompatible A Personal Perspective on the James Holly, M.D. Freemasons, who several tion, U.S.A., suggested that with Christianity and that Ma- SBC Study of Freemasonry. months ago said they would Christian News take excerpts sons should not be permitted to By James L. Holly, M.D. debate Dr. Robert Morey, Dr. from the February and May is- serve as pastors. Thousands of As the annual meeting of the James Holly, Christian News and sues of The Scottish Rite Joi1r- clergymen in various denomina- SBC approaches, and as the other critics of Freemasonry, nal and John Robinson's book tions are Masons. process of the SBC establishing have backed out of a debate with entitled A Pilgrim's Path. The Lutheran Church-Mis- its stand on Freemasonry draws Christian News and Dr. Robert Christian News has received souri Synod has been one of the to a close, I have reflected on my Continued on Page 10 the February and May issues of Continued on Page 6 response to what apparently will be a lukewarm and medicore statement by Southern Baptists. Ancient Free The fact that Freemasonry is In This Issue satanic, occultic and evil is obvi- And Accepted southern Baptists Divided on Masonry. 2 ous for anyone who is unbounded A Report on Freemasonry—Home Mission Board SBC....3 by the fellowship of Masonry or Masons Why Does the LCMS Object to Membership in Lodges, the fear of Masons. 1 am uncon- The Lutheran Witness 4 vinced by arguments put foIlh Rev. Elden Winker, May a Christian Be a Lodge Member, James Maiiz 4 by the HMB's staff of support ExecutiVe Director, A liistoric Moment in American Freemasonry, their contention that Freema- Commission on Organi- Scottish Rite Journal 7 Southern Baptists haVe Home Mission Board Returns Positive sonry is not a hindrance to mis- zations, Lutheran become the first Christian Church-Missouri Synod. Rejxirt on Freemasonry. 9 sions and evangelism, and the denomination that essen- mmmmiQuestionnaire sent to Masons 10 implication that Southern Bap- tially blesses the Masonic The origin and Teaching of Freemasonry, tists cannot propagate the Gos- Robert Morey. 12 Lodge. Ancient Free and pel without Masonic money. Masonic L-odge Corrupts 6 Million Men, For years, liberals in the SBC Moody Press, John Ankerberg, John Weidon 13 employed the doctrine of the hood ofthe believer and the au- Accepted Masons one Thing Mr. Ford Forget, Waiter A. Maier. 15 priesthood of the believer as a tonomy of the local church, to The Lutheran Arguments Answered, justify Southern Baptists' unwill- Prepared from the theological perspective of the Masonic Inspiration 16 shibboleth with which to excuse Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod in response to inquir Christianity and Free Masonry, Kurt Marquart 21 all manner of error. Now conser- ingness to declare clearly what the Masonic Lodge is distorts ies from members ofthe Synod. The Baptists 23 vatives employ the same device A Twentieth Ontury Formuia of Concord 24 both doctrines. What is Freemasonry? to avoid establishing a standard Totai Ordained Women in SBC Now 900 25 The priesthood of the believer To the casual observer Freemasonry appears to be of the truth about Freemasonry, primarily a social institution which offers fraternal and citing the doctrines ofthe priest- Continued on Page 5 Continued on Page 16 THE CHRISTIAN NEWS May 24,1993 Page 2 Will the Hundreds of SBC Pastors Who Are Masons Be -Allowed to Remain Both Masons and SBC Pastors? Southern Baptists Divided on Masonry

The issue of Masonry is threatening to diVide the Southern Baptist ConVention. SeVeraJ hundred SBC pastors are freemasons. The Tennessean reported last year that "an estimated 15 per cent of SBC pastors and 18 per cent of deacon leaders are said to be Masons" (Christian News Encyclopedia, p. 3847). According to its official documents, masonry claims to be a religion Which teaches that Jesus Christ is not God, the Holy Trinity is not the only true God and a man must Work his oWn Way into heaVen. Members of the SBC, Who contend that SBC pastors should be allowed to be masons, often say that Muslims, Hindus, Jews and other non-Christians Worship the true God eVen though they do not trust in the merits of Jesus Christ for the forgiVeness of their sins. The Lutheran Church-Missouri Syntxl does not alloW its pastors and members to be masons. The LCMS claims masonry is "unchristian" (See "The Masons and The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod," and "An Open L«tter to Lutherans Spreading .Anti-Masonic Propaganda" reprinted from a Masonic BAPTIST WOMEN ANSWER QUESTIONS ... publication. Christian News Encyclopedia, p. 1139.) RICHMOND, VA.—DeUanna O' Brien (center), Women's Missionary Union executiVe director, answers questions during a tense two-hour session February 8 with trustees The Januaiy 4, 1993 Chris- Mason Southern Baptists. I forget sihie." Yet, this statement is totally tian News reprinted "Confer- how many Fred McPeake said. in consonance with his August, 1992 of the Southern Baptist Foreign Mission Boards. The ences Address Southern Baptist James L. Holly is quite upset with statement when he said, "let the trustees were upset oVer the decision by the women's ConVention Issue" from the De- me as l will not meet with him again messengers fight it out on the floor of group to assist mission efforts by the moderate group in cember, 1992 Scottish Rite to let h im approve the report before it the Convention next June." Both re- the denomination, CooperatiVe Baptist Fellowship. is submitted. He, of course, will ex- flect a contemptuous attitude about O'Brien is flanked by WMU President Carolyn Miller Journal. The Masonic publica- plode when he sees it. I am reaffirm- tion said that "No Mason wants the S.B.C. which Dr. Leazer serves. (right) and Ellen Teague, president of the District of ing our department's 1986 position If Dr. Leazer had simply stated, "lf Columbia Baptist ConVention. to be faced With the choice of his that Freemasonry is NOT a religion you want to response to the study on RNS Photo Lodge or his Church, yet this is and recommendingthattheSRC take Freemasonry you can come to the exactly the decision that may be a stand neither for nor against Free- S.B.C. as a messenger.", it could be I served eight years on the Sunday forced on many thousands of masonry. Of course, anything can argued that he was Simply respond- department from an ad hoc com- Southern Baptists Who are Ma- happen between now and the SBC as ing to a question. But, the clear lan- School Board of the Southern Bap- mittee preparing a "report and well as at the SBC in June. Holly is guage of the statement, "It is essen- tist Convention. During that time we recommendation" on Freema- sons if the 1993 Southern Bap- already marshalling his forces to addressed many unpopular issues, lf tist ConVention yields to anti- tial that as many Southern Baptist sonry for the Southern Baptist counter-attack. It is essential that as Masons get to the SRC as possible." I were a trustee of the Home Mission Masonic forces." many Southern Raptist Masons get Board at this time, I would: Convention. is advocacy, not simply explaining a HMB President Larry Lewis The January 4 CN also pub- to the SBC as possible. procedure. Dr. Leazer's statement 1. Call for a new study on Freema- sonry, done by those committed to removed the department's direc- lished "(DoVer-Up in the ConVen- l will send you a copy ofthe report expresses a personal desire for "as the Truth of God's inerrant Word tor, Gary Leazer, from the com- tion (S.B.C.)?" by a Southern as soon as I can — probably after the many Southern Baptist Masons as 8th of February when l defend it in possible" to come to the convention. and to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. mittee Feb. 22 for what Lewis Baptist. SBC readers haVe been front of the Administrative Commit- This statement written to a Mason in 2. Reject Dr. Leazer's study and termed "inappropriate" com- ordering extra copies of this is- tee of the HMB trustees. The full a personal letter on Home Mission any recommendations which would ments Leazer made about the sue of CN for circulation Within trustee board will make the final Board stationery is not "unfortunate", come from the implications of his Freemasonry issue in a letter. study. the SBC. The editor of CN has decision on March l7th. it is unconscionable and should not Leazer's letter, to a Chatta- said that if CN had the funds it be countenanced by the trustees of 3. Ask Dr. Leazer to resign as he Give my regards to the other men has compromised his ability to lead nooga, Tenn., man. Was circu- Would send CN to all Southern the Board. at yonr temple. Perhaps I can get up the lnterfaith Witness Department lated to Home Mission Board of- lt is also impossible, as Dr. Lewis Baptist Churches in order to in- to see you later this spring. with integrity. ficials. Baptist Press and other Grace and peace, tries to do, simply to dismiss Dr. form the SBC that Masonry it- 4. Move for the Home Mission Gary Leazer Leazer'scomments aboutsendingthe news media Feb. 22 by James self claims to be a religion and Board to bring a recommendation to P.O. Box 870523 report to "two masons" to check the "Larry" Holly, a Texas physician that Masonry is anti-Christian the S.B.C. in June of 1993 declaring Stone Mountain, GA 30087-0014 accuracy of the facts. No such effort intenton theSBCdeclaringFree- Work Freemasonry to l>e incompatible with and a righteous religion of James Holly, M.D., has been send- was made to "check the accuracy of With Christianity. masonry incompatible the laW. Issues of CN sent to all ing material to leaders of the SRC the facts made in regard to those who Christianity. SBC churches Would include studying masonry. Some of it has oppose Freemasonry". Why would the 5. Ask Dr. Larry Lewis why he is unable to have any clear implica- During last year's SBC meet- tracts prepared by The Lutheran been reviewed in Christian News. chicken farmer invite the fox to check ing in Indianapolis, Holly made Church-Missouri Synod docu- Dr. Holly recently wrote: the specifications for the construc- tions on the compromise of the Home tion of the hen house? Why would the Mission Board liy one of its employ- a motion for the creation of a menting the anti-Christian na- As a trustee of the Home Mission ees. Board and as one charged with the managing editor of the Scottish Rite special ad hoc committee to study ture of freemasonry. No denomi- Journal, desire to invite, and feel Each of you is a priest before God. Freemasonry. But messengers nation has published more on fiduciary responsibility of represent- ingthe spiritual interests of all South- comfortatile inviting. Dr. Lieazer to l respect and embrace that. Please Voted to amend the motion, in- read all of the material which is en- masonry than the LCMS. ern Baptists and of the Lord Jesus read the February issue before it structing the HMB lnterfaith Christ at the Board, I implore you to went to press? At every point, if not closed herein and all of the material Witness Department to do the Gary Leazer, the director of in fact, in appearance. Dr. Leazer which you will receive from others in the SBC's Home Mission Board's take the time to read all of this mate- study... rial. At your meeting in March you has compromised any semblance of the coming days. It will require a interfaith Witness department major commitment to do this. Your are going to be asked to act on a objectivity. Therefore, all of his work CHRISTIAN NEWS, March 1, 1993 and an ad hoc committee prepar- on this study should he rejected. God, your Lord, your conscience, your study, a report and a recommenda- Baptists Asked to ing a "report and recommenda- tion for the Southern Baptist Con- Convention and your comrades-in- faith are worthy of such a commit- tion" on Freemasoniy for the SBC vention. Dr. Lewis' statement that the Accept Report eighty-page report prepared by Dr. ment. Wrote to a freemason on January It is the genius ofthe S.B.C. that Leazer does not have a conclusion In Christ's love and service, the doctrine of the priesthood of the "White-Washing" Masonry 17: and does not make a recommenda- believer with its principle of the soul Larry Holly, M.D. tion is disingenuous. While the re- competency of every born-again be- Proverbs 22:17-21 Continued from Page 1 port may not express a conclusion, it HMB liever in the Lord Jesus Christ, that (Ed. See "Southern Baptist Mail will expect a conclusion. In that this of personal conscience. no participant in a Southern Baptist Campaign Targets Ma.sons," "Home H OME MISSION BOARD, SBC report has been conceived under the church, agency, hoard, commission Mission Board Will Study Masonry," Therefore, we exhort watchful supervision of Masons and Christ f(jr Our Nation or program is bound by anything "A Masonic History of America," Southern Baptists to in that Dr. L-eazer has received the except the Word of God and their "Christianity vs. Freemasonry," prayerfully and care- help of many Masons, it is uncon- January 17, 1993 personal Ijfecommitment to the Lord- "Christ and the Lodge," "Freema- fully evaluate Freema- vincingto suggest that his report will Mr. D. L. Talhert ship of Jesus Christ. It is in the spirit sonry a Grand Chaplain Speaks Out," not expect, require and demand a sonry in light of the 6858 Longview Road of that genius that I ask you to invest "What Is a Mason," "Masonic Phi- decision in favor of Freemasonry. Lordship of Christ, the Chattanooga, TN 3742 l the time to inform yourself about the losopher Albert Pike says; FREE- And, please remember, if the S.B.C. teachings of the Scrip- Dear Don: matters which you wiII face in March. MASONRY ENTAILS THE 'FALL Thank you for your letter of Janu- does anything hut declare that Free- OF ALL DOGIVIAS AND THE RUIN ture, and the findings ary 2nd. 1 had fully intended to get It is my contention that Dr. Gary masonry is incompatible with Chris- OFALLCHURCHES' ",'TheTeBch- of this report, as led by back up to Chattanooga ail fall to see Leazer suggested his prejudice tianity, then the S.B.C. sides with ings of Albert Pike," "Masonry De- the Holy Spirit of God." you, but time has a way of getting against this study in his August, 1992 the Masons. Our Lord Himself de- nies Deity ofChrist and Justirication ietter and that he forthrightly stated ciared that there are oniy two sides C. Fred Kleinknecht, 33°, away from me. The report is nearly by Faith Alone," "Masonic Lodge Grand Commander Southern completed. I will submit it to Larry that prejudice in his January, 1993 in this spiritual battie. We either Corrupts 6 Million Men,"Christian Lewis this Friday. I wish l couid have letter. No amount of explaining will side with the Lord against the Lodge News Encyclopedia, pp. 3846- Jurisdiction, Writes in the May, had another six months but I am removetheclear implication that Dr. or we side with the Lodge against the 3850. "The Case Against the Lodge," 1993 Scottish Rite Joumah very pieased with aii 80 pages of it. It Leazer's January letter indicates Lord. by Ben Holt, "Should I Join A Frater- 'This Is a historic moment in that he is declaring his affinity for nal Society," by Walter A. Maier, has been a most interesting study. I Make no mistake about it. Dr. American Freemasoniy. We are the members of the L,odge. Dr. ljCwis' Christian News Encyclopedia, pp appreciate ail of the heip that Ma- Leazer's proposal to take no position being confronted by a Virulent sons have been to me. Jim Tresner, explanation does not stand up to scru- 1140-1145). (If CN had the funds we tiny. Dr. Leazer's favorable attitude is taking a position on the side ofthe attack on our gentle Craft from a editor of The Oklahoma Mason, and Lodge. It is this kind of neutral indif- would send a speciai issue of CN to toward Masonry and his hostility ail SBC churches. This issue wouid faction within the Southern Abner McCall, former president of ference which Jesus condemns in the toward those who oppose Masonry is Baptist Convention. This June, Baylor University, have each read Laodicean Church. In spiritual terms, inciude some ofthe above articles on clearly stated. Freemasonry.). the ConVention will Vote on the the report and offered suggestions it would be more helpful for Christ's which I used. John Roettjer asked Dr. ljCwis' contents that Dr. Leazer cause for the S.B.C. to compromise in issue of whether or not Freema- me to read the proof ofthe February was "simply respondingto a question declaring the Lodge compatihie with sonry is compatible 'with Chris- issue of The Scottish Rite Journal about what Masons could do about Christianity, than to capituinte to Lewis Removes HMB tianity and Southern Baptist which l did in December. It will be on this study", when he said, "It is es- compiacency by taking no position at doctrine.'" Freemasonry and religion and will sential that as many Southern Bap- aii. At ieast the former position, the Official From Further be sent to either 3,000 or 4,000 non- The Sovereign Grand Com- tist Masons get to the SBC as pos- compromisingposition, would be hon- mander ofthe Masons says that est and would allow those who have Work on Masonic Issue "While I disagree with seVeral SBC Home Mission Boord determined to stand with Christ to know where they stand within this NASHVILLE (BP) - The Home points critical of Freemasonry in denomination. Mission Board has removed the the Board's report, I compliment director of its interfaith witness the Home Mission Board for its intent to repoIi; eVen-handedly on FreemasonIy. Most of all, I commend the Board on its con- clusion that membership of Southern Baptists in Freema- sonry remain what it has always been, a matter of personal con- science and decision." According to Various reports, hundreds of thousands of South- ern Baptists, including some 15 per cent ofthe SBC's pastors, are Masons. The May, 1992 Scottish Rite Journal, a Masonic publication, is urging laymen and pastors of Gaiy Leazer the SBC, who are Masons, to Home Mission Board attend the SBC conVention in Houston and to Vote at the SBC •Hey, Walt a minute, aren't ttiere any real sheep here?" 'Our study indicates that Freemasonry is not a religion." meeting 'To Assure Success at Continued on Page 3 Photographically Reproduced iwed how he buildeth thereupoo. For other foundation can no man lay. than thai THE CHRISTIAN NEWS is Uid. which is Iesus ChrisL" May 24,1993 Page 3 Or the ceremony of the extinguishing of tiie tights, a Scottish Rite ceremony held on Maundy Thursday: Or that of other advanced degrees with required rituals considered by many to be pagan A REPORT ON FREEMASONRY and incompatible with Christian ^t h and practice. •My Brethren, this is the anniversary of thai Last Supper of which Jesus of Nazareth partook with His humble disciples, after which He was betrayed and Even though these oaths, obligations, and rituals may or nuy not be taken seriously by cnicified. tile initiate, it is inappropriate for a Christian to 'sincerely promise and swear,* widi a hand on the Holy Bible, any such promises or oatiis. or to participate in any such •Who, of any creed, can picture to himself, unmoved, that noble and sweet pagan rituals. countenance, which never looked on anything in anger, pale with agony, and streaming with tears? itis back was torn by the lash, liis btow pierced by the 3. The recommended readings, in pursuance of advanced degrees, of religions and thorns. He suffered, willingly, until it seemed, even to Him, that His God and philosophies, which are undeniably papn and/or occultic, such as much of the writings H OME MISSION BoARa SBC Father had forsaken itim. of Albert Pike. Albert Mackey, Manly HaU. Rex Huichins. W.L. Wilmshurst, and other Marcli 17, 1993 such authors: along witii their works, such as Montis and Doima. A Bridge to Ught, "And yet. even then, bruised, hanged upon a cross, betrayed by one He loved, An Encyclopaedia of Freemasonry, and The Meaning of Masonry. suffering and. for a moment, questioning. He stiU calls down not curses but In afinual seuion of :he Southern Bapbst Convention, .Tune 9-11. 1992, the roUowing blessings and a prayer for forgiveness upon those who had so treated Him."' 4. The reference to the Bible placed on the altar of the lodge as the 'furniture of the motion w u approved; lodge.' comparing it to the square and compass rather than giving it the supreme place Or that found in the Sconish Rite 18th degree: in the lodge.'* The Sou^tem Baptiu Convention in annual session June 9-11. 1992. ac Indianapolis. Indiana, directs che Interfaith Witness Department of the Home •Wherein they lolder fonrn of religion) were deficient (Masonry] found in the Mission Board to study the compatibility with Christianiiy and Southern Baptist 3. The prevalent use of the term 'tight.* which some may understand as a reference to New Law of Love, preached by Jesus of Naiareth. and which He sealed with His salvation rather than knowledge or trutii. docEhne of the organization lolown Variously as the Masonic Lodge. Masonry. blood."* Freemasonry, and or Ancient and Accepted Right [sici of Freemasonry. Tlie study is to encompass any and ail branches and or lodges thereof. Furthermore, 6. The implication that salvation may be attained by one's good works, implicit in the Or the strong affirmation of the Bibie found in the M>B» CaroUna Lodge Mamal: the convenbon charges the Home .Mission Board with the responsibility of statement found in some .Masonic writings that 'Masonry is continually reminded of that bringing a report with recommendation to the Convention which is to meet in purity of Ufe and conduct which is necessary to obtain admittance into the Celestial The Holy Bible is given us as the rule and guide of faith . . . the Bible is the Houston. Teitas. June 1993.' Lodge above where the Supreme Architect of the Universe presides."* Even though Ught which enlightens the path of our duty to God.^' many .Masons undcntand that the "purity of life and conduct" can only be achieved

Or thai found m the Lomsima Masonic Uomior. through faith in Jesus Christ, others may be led to believe they can earn salvation by We report living a pure Ufe with good conduct. •However they may differ in creed or theology, all good men are agreed that That the Interfaith Witness Department of the Home Mission Board (HMB) has wiUiin the covers of the Holy Bible are found those principles of morality which 7. The heresy of universalism (the beiief all people will evenmally be saved), which completed a study of Freemasonry and its various branches, as directed by the Convention, with lay the foundadon upon which to build a righteous life.... It is Uie one volume permeates the writings of many Masonic authors, which is a doctrine inconsistent with special attention given to the compaubility of Freemasonry with Chrutianity and Southern Baptist which has lived in Uie hearts of the people, molding and shaping their destinies; New Testament leaching." doctrine. The study has been reviewed by the HM B Executive Coundl (president and vice and it leads the way to K i m who is Uie Ught of the world." « presidents), by the Board of Directors' Administrative Committee (officers and committee 8. The refusal of most lodges (although not all) to admit for membership African- chairmen), and by the Board of Dtrecurs of the HMB. The study has now been published as Or the words of the chaplain in the funeral service found in the Masonic Uanual of the Croud Americans. a 7S-page document and is available for purchase on a cost-recoveiy basis from the Home Lodge of Georgia: Mission Board and/or Baptist Boole Stores. ^ Sl-MMARY -I am the resurrection and the life, saith the IxRi. He that believeth in me, wg rreon though he were dead, yet shall he live. And whosoever Uveth and believeth in In iighl of die fact Uiat many Uoets and teachings of Freemasonry are oot me shall never die."* coiDpaiible with Christianity and Southern Baptist doctrine, while oUien ate Jhat the Administrative Committee of the Board of Directors has prqtared this printed compatible with Christianity and SouUieni Baptist doctrine, we Uierefore report^o the Convention and that it has been reviewed and approved by action of the Board of To be sure, not all Grand Lodges affirm Christian doctrine, and many do not declare Jesus as rtcommeDd that consistent with our deoominatioo's deep convictions regarding the Directors, meeting March 17, 1993. in Atlanta, Ga. the unique Son of God; but many do. and for this we commend them. There is not complete priesthood of the beiiever and the autonomy of the local chureh. membership in a uniformity in tenets or piactice among lodges. Masonic Order bt a matter of personal conscience. Therefore, we exhort Southern We commend Baptists to prayerfully and carefuUy evaluate Freemasonry in tight of the I.orfisIup we conclude of Christ, the teachmgs of uie Scripniie, and Uie frndlnp of uiis repon, as led hy The Masonic Order for its many charitable endeavors such as the operation of Z2 die Holy Spirit of God. Shriners hospitals, 19 orthopedic hospitals, and 3 bums institutes with noteworthy success in That many tenets and teachings of Freemasonry are not compadble widi Qirisdanity or treatment, research, and education, often providing free treatment to children under 18 years of Soudleffl Baptist doctiine. including; "i*roceeding$,^ Amiual ofthe Somhem Baptist Convention 1992, (NashviIle: Executive age. Also, we commend support of the Foundation for the Prevention of Drug and Alcohol Committee, 1992) p. 86. Abuse Among Children and the Eastern Star sponsonhip of Masonic Homes for the Aged. 1. The prevalent use of offensive concepts, dllea. and terms such as "Worshipful Master" These, with many other charitable and benevolent endeavors, are commendable. for the leader of a lodge; references to their buildings as "mosques." "shrines." or 'Monitor ofthe Lodge (Waco: Grand Lodge of Texas. 1932). p. 148. "temples"; and the use of words such as "Abaddon" and "lah-Bul-On," the so-called We :iclmowledge secret name of God. To many, these terms are not only offensive but sacrilegious. 'Masonic Code (Grand Lodge of Alabama. I9«3). p. U L 'TTie Miurm Masonic Monitor (Outhne: Grand Lodge of Oklahoma, revised 1988), p. 190. That many outstanding Christians and Southern Baptists now are, and in the past have 2. The use of archaic, offensive rimali and so-called "bloody o«hs" or •obligations.- among these being that promised by the Entered Apptendce; been Nfasons. including such notable past Southern Baptist leaders as B.H. CanoU, George W. 'Rirual of Ihc IS' to the If o/iAe Scottish Rue (no pubhsher infomiation, 1957). p. 231. Truett. L.R. Scartwrough, W.T. Connor, Louie D. Newton, and J.B. Lawrence. •All diis i most soiemniy and sincerely promise and swear binding myself *Ibid.. p. 145. We recogniM under no less penalty titan that of having my Uuoai cut from ear to ear. my tongue torn out by its roou. and buiitd in the tands of the sea. u low water 'Charles F. Bahnson. North CaroUna Lodge Manual (Italeigh: Edwards 4 Boughtoo Co.. That many of the tenets and teachings of some Grand Lodges could be considered mark, where the tide ebbs and flows twice in twenty-five hours, should i . in 1929), p. 14. compatible with, and even supportive of. Christian fiith and practice, such as the strong die least, knowingly or wittingly violate or transgress this my Entered Appren- emphasis on honesty, integrity, industry, and character and the insistence that every member tice obligation.""* 'Louisiana Masonic Monitor (Walker. La.: Lavergne's River I>arish Press. 1988). pp. 24-26. believe in God. Some Grand Lodges have written into their monitors, guidelines, and rituals explicit references to Christian faith, including exaa quotes from the Bible, such as in the ritual Or thai of the FeUow Craft degree: *.v/aro/uc Manual ofthe Grand Lodge of Georgia (Macon: Most Worshipful Grand I.odge constituting a new lodge in the Monitor of the Lodge of the Grand Lodge of Texas: of Georgia. 1973). pp. 145-146. "All Uiis I most solemnly and sincerely promise and iwtar binding myself • "Ralph P. Lester, ed. Look to the East: A Xinial i>f the etrst Three Degrees of Masonry "I now solemnly consecrate this lodge to the honor and glory of Jehovah, the under no less penalty than diat of having my left breast torn open, ray heart (Chicago: Ezra A. Cook Publishing, inc.. 1975). p. 96. Grand Architect of the Universe. plucked from thence, and given to the beast of the field and the birds of the air as prey, should I. in die least, knowingly or wittingly, violate or tiansgiess diis "ibid., p. 31. Or the explicit reference to Jesus in the Masonic Code of the Grand Lodge of Alabama: ray FeUow Craft ohligationi."' "Ibid., pp. 134-155. *It is therefore proper and in accordance with Masonic law and tenets for a Or t.'iat of .ne .Master .Mason: Mason who believes in the Christ Jesus a offer prayen in the Lodge in His "Monitor ofthe Lodge (Waco: Grand Lodge of Texas. 1982). pp. 30-31. Also see Louisiana Name.'* •All this I most soiemniy and sincerely promise and swear binding myself Masonic Monitor, pp. 24-26. under no less penalty than that of having my body severed in two. my bowels Or the ceremony for laying a cornerstone found in The Murrow Masonic Monitor of the Grand ton from thence and burned to ashes, and these scattered before the four winds '^Louisiana Masonic Monitor, p. 79. Lodge of Oldahoma: of heaven, that no more remembrance might be had among men or .Masons of "Morals and Dogma cfihe Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite (tf Freemasoniy (Washingmn. so vile a wretch as I should be. should I. in the least, knowingly or wittingly D.C.: I>tepared for die Supreme Council of die Thirty-diird Degree for the Soudiem violate or transgress this my Master Mason oeligation. So help me God and 'According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masteibuilder, Jurisdiction. A.A.S.R., U.S.A.. 1964). p. 847. I have laid the foundation, and another buUdeth thereon. But let every man take keep me steadfast.*"

Baptists Asked to have rejected God for 'the lowest- a Mason, wrote: leted the name of Jesus in books, Robert E. Baylor was one of The Cross of Calvary is the Accept Report common-denominator god.' It is it is not true that Freemasonry eight Masons who petitioned for true that God is not defined by symbol of our order [the Red ignores or denies Jesus Christ. a charter for Baylor University "White-Washing" Masonry Freemasonry; each Mason is Cross of Constantine]. One That Freemasonry does not refer part of it is vertical; the other in 1845. "Every president of Bay- Continued from Page 2 given the freedom to define God part is horizontal. It signifies to Jesus Christ as much as some lor University has been a Mas- the SBC." "Home Mission Board for himself. Neither is God de- our instrument of victory. critics would hke can, in part, be ter Mason." One president was Returns PositiVe Report on Free- fined in the phrase 'In God We attributed to the fact that Free- William R. White, 33°, who masonry" in the May, l993 Scot- Trust' on the backs of Federal We look up to the God re- masonry sees itself as symboli- served as president of Baylor tisli Rite Journal includes Reserve Notes. .As Christians, we vealed in Christ. That is our cally building Solomon's Temple, University from 1948 to 1961. vertical direction or look. Our constructed lO centuries before excerpts from the SBC Home interpret that phrase as refer- solid ground of hope is in Him. He served as pastor of First Bap- Mission Board's repoIi which ring to God, who was revealed in Here is the source of our faith Christ, within each member" tist Church of Austin, First Bap- Masons consider to be "positive." Jesus Christ. But if that were and power. (48). tist Church of Oklahoma City, Although the Commission on somehow made official by an act The other part of the Cross Conclusions First Baptist Church of Lubbock, Organizations of The Lutheran of Congress, Jews, Muslims, and extends horizontally. This is 1. Masons are not sup- and Broadway Baptist Church Church-Missouri Synod, in re- other non-Christian American the outward or manward look. posed to talk or testify of Fort Worth. He also served as sponse to a request from the SBC, citizens would immediately chal- We are to see man as Christ about Jesus during the rit- executive secretary, and later as furnished the SBC board with lenge the act. The Christian saw him from the Cross-per- ual, and the fellowship im- president, of The Baptist Gen- verse and helpless without mediately afterward. This eral ConVention of Texas. evidence showing that Masonry church is free to define who God God. Yet, He saw man redeem- prohibition does not apply is an anti-Christian religion, the is. But we must allow non-Chris- able through sacrificial love. at other times. The first two missionaries board took issue with the posi- tians the freedom to also define For the joy of that potential. 2. One Mason wrote that sent by the SBC to Texas, James tion taken by The Lutheran who God is" (43). He endured the Cross, despis- "perhaps Masons should lie Huckins and William Tryon, Church-Missouri Synod on Ma- "Conclusions ing the shame. reminded that as we seek were Masons. sonry. Some of the material the "1. Freemasonry requires Earl n. Harris, in his ar- 'Masonic Light,' we find George W. Truett (1867- LCMS sent to the SBC is in this no specific belief about God, ticle on "Brotherly Love" in that Jesus is indeed 'The 1944), pastor of First Baptist so there is a diVersity of opin- the Masonic Messenger, Light of the World.'" Chris- issue of CN. The SBC also takes tian Masons affirm that Church, Dallas (1897-1944), issue with the LCMS on the ordi- ion among Masons concern- quotes Jesus by name, calls Him 'The Great Teacher," and Jesus Christ is "the way, president of the SBC (1927- nation of women. The LCMS says ing God. capitalizes personal pronouns and the truth, and the life; 1929), president of the Baptist that the ordination of women to "2. American Masons referring to Him. The Ma- no one comes to the Fa- World Alliance (1934-1939), and the pastoral ministry is contraIy should follow the lead of their sonic Messenger is the offi- ther, but through Me" trustee of Baylor University and to the Bible. However, the SBC English brothers and discon- cial publication of the Grand (John 14:6, NASH) (49). Southern Baptist Theological allows its congregations to reject tinue the use of Jah-Bul-On Lodge of Georgia. It is not true The Lutheran Seminary, was a Scottish Rite 1 Corinthians 14:34,35 and l as a name for God" (45). that Masons may never talk Mason. He was raised a Master Timothy 2:11,12 and ordain Section 9 of the SBC study or testify about Jesus to their Church-Missouri Synod Mason in 1920 in -the Dallas women to seI^e as pastors. A says: fellow Masons. Masonic codes "The Lutheran Church-Mis- Lodge No. 760; he received the disallow this discussion or recent report said that the SBC Masoniy critics repeatedly say souri Synod has been opposed to 32nd degree in 1921. Of his Ma- testimony only during the rit- Freemasonry since at least 1948. sonic membership, Truett said: has some 900 ordained women that "a Mason is not allowed to ual, and the fellowship imme- clergymen. The LCMS has no pray or to testify of Jesus in the diately afterward. It 'has declared itself to be firmly From my earliest recollec- ordained women pastors. Lodge. A Christian Mason can- Masonry critics often claim opposed to all societies, lodges, tion, sitting about my father's not even share the joy of Jesus the name of Jesus Christ is and associations of unchristian knees, who was a Mason, and The SBC's Home Mission hearing him and fellow Ma- Board's 75-page "A Study of Free- with a 'brother Mason' in the never spoken in official Ma- and antichristian character.' The Lodge." sonic rituals and ceremonies. Synod 'requires that pastors of sons talk, l imbibed the im- masonry" says that "Masonic This is not completely true. pression in early childhood codes prevent lodges from hold- However, the Masonic Code the Synod do not administer Holy of the Grand Lodge of Alabama Other critics state, "Masonry Communion nor admit to com- that the Masonic fraternity is ing meetings on Sundays. . . . absoiuteiy prohibits all at- one of the most helpful medi- Would Freemasons place such a gives instruction on the use of municant membership members tempts by Christians to share of such organizations" (62). ating and conserving organi- restriction on the use of a Lodge the name Jesus Christ in Lodge Jesus Christ with other Ma- zations among men, and I have if it were an anti-Christian reli- prayers. "A Mason offering prayer sons. Masons insist this re- 400,000-500,000 never wavered from that child- gion?" (29) The study says: "Ev- in the Lodge may pray to his striction exists oniy in ofTIcial Soutliern Baptists hood impression, but it has ery Mason is required to profess God—observing his own concep- Lodge meetings and does not appiy outside those meetings. stood steadfastly with me a belief in God, but each Mason is tion of Deity. It is therefore proper Are IMasons throu^ the busy and vast hur- allowed to define his understand- and in accordance with Masonic The ritual for the Fellow An estimated 400,000-500,000 Craft degree in The Murrow rying years (65). ing of God as he wants. There is law and tenets for a Mason who Southern Baptist men are Ma- After listing the names of believes in the Christ or Jesus to Masonic Monitor used by no doubt that Masons take belief Okiahoma Masons includes sons. Among this number are many SBC leaders and clergy- in God seriously" (38). The SBC offer prayer in the Lodge in His the "Doxology," with the many well-known Southern Bap- men who were Masons the study board takes issue with the LCMS Name." However, a Mason must phrase "Praise Father, Son, tist leaders. No attempt will be concludes: position which maintains that the use the written prayers provided and Holy Ghost" (pp. 46 and given to naming living Southern Conclusion Holy Trinity is the only God who in the ritual in all ritualistic cere- 47). Baptist Masons. However, fol- "ObViously, there is no actually exists. monies. According to the SBC study: lowing are some well-known agreement among Southern The study says: W. R. White, a past presi- "While critics can find ex- Southern Baptist Masons from Baptists whether Christians "lt has been said that Masons dent of Baylor University and amples where Masons have de- the past. Continued on Page 5 scribe. Many have said that no publication offers more Christian News for the money than CN, 24 fact-filled pages each Week, (Continuing Luttieran Nevvs, 1962-67) Masonry Is Anti-Christian except during August, for $20.00. We pray that the Southern Baptists, Who rightly ISSN 0009-5516 Christian News, May 24, 1993 oppose the work righteousness of Rome, will not con- Editor, Herman Otten Help Get the Truth About Masonry to tinue to tolerate the work righteousness and anti-scrip- Vol. 31, No. 21 Monday, May 24,1993 Page 4 The Southern Baptist Convention tural universalism of the Masons. Published weekly except August by Lutheran News Inc. Keep informed about the great battle on Masonry in U.S. subscriber rate $20.00 per year. Canada and Foreign, Pass out this issue to church members, the SBC by subscribing to Christian News. $24.00 USD per year. 2 copies $1.00. 10 copies $4.00. 20 copies $6.00. 50 copies $10.00. Editorial, Circulation and convention messengers (delegates). Business Office: Rt. I, Box 309A, New Haven, MO 63068- 2 copies $1.00 50 copies $4.00 Why Does the Lutheran Church- 9568. Phone: (3I4) 237-3IlO; Fax: (314) 237-3858 Second- 10 copies $4.00 1,000 copies $125.00 class postage paid at New Haven, MO and additional mail- ing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to CHRIS- 20 copies $6.00 10,000 copies $1,000.00 Missouri Synod Object to TIAN NEWS, Rt. 1, Box 309A, New Haven, MO 63068-9568. 1. CHRISTIAN N E W S is not an ofTicial organ of any Name nilembership in Lodges? church-body, but an independent publication designed to From the April, 1993 Lutheran Witness, Official supply rank and file Christians with information needed to Address_ Publication of The Lutheran Church-Missouri face the present crisis in Christendom. 2. CHRISTIAN NEWS is not a doctrinally neutral ob- Synod. server, but is committed to the full historic Christian faith, State .Zip. Why does The Lutheran Church-Missouii Synod as it is authoritatively revealed in the written Word of God, object to membership in lodges? And what is the the HoIy Scriptures, and correctly set forth in the Confes- $ Enclosed pastor's responsibility i-egarding this matter? F. J., sions of the orthodox Church to wit, the Book of Concord in Florida. 1580. Among the many organizations in this country that 3. CHRISTIAN NEWS is therefore unalterably opposed Christians may be Masons. The fact that the church of have otherwise noble purposes and commendable pro- to the various fashionable "theological" systems which sac- Norway, Which is supposed to be Lutheran, has so many grams, some also require members to subscribe to cer- rifice the supernatural mysteries of the Christian Faith to Masons is not surprising Theological liberalism has tain religious tenets that contradict the Christian's pro- the proletarian prejudices of "Modern Man's" computerized taken over a large part of this church. Hardly 5 per cent mentality. CHRISTIAN NEWS holds that the continued fession of faith. These include some of the lodges— use of Christian words and phrases, and the lip-service paid of its members attend church With any regularity. It Freemasons and Shriners, Odd Fellows, Elks, Moose, to "the Scriptures and the Confessions" by the practitioners ordains Women to serve as pastors. It can hardly be Eagles, and a few others. of this new anti-Christian "theology" are totally dishonest called Lutheran. Of most concern to Christians is the claim made by and hypocritical. The Masons quote some leading Methodist clergymen many lodges that there is eternal life apart from Jesus 4. Given the radical, indeed mortal nature of the doc- Who are Masons. A scientific suIVey already more than Christ, that good works lead to salvation, and that^he trinal conflict and the need to reach and undeceive millions 25 years ago shoWed that about half of the Methodist Bible is merely a moral code—and only one among many of rank and file Christians who have no idea ofthe fate being clergymen in the U.S. denied the physical resurrection of at that. Freemasons, for example, say: "We are members prepared for their churches under cover of pious-sounding Jesus Christ. It is no surprise when a Methodist clergy- of the universal religion.... As (IJhristians, we worship slogans and platitudes, strong straightforward, and sus- man is also a Mason. tained criticism is to be expected. Those who decry this as God through Jesus Christ; as Parsees, through Zoroas- "negativism" either do not understand the gravity of the Readers of this special issue on Masonry, who want to ter; as Mohammedans, through Mohammed; as Jews, crisis or are themselves in league with the enemy. Scripture know something about the theological position of the through Moses. We helieve that in eveIy nation, he that is extremely "negative" whenever it deals with apostasy and editor of CN, should check the masthead. We are also feareth God and works righteousness is accepted by hypocrisy! And these are dominant features of modem publishing a "Twentieth Century Formula of Concord" Him.... We know that the end of our journey is the same" church life. which the editor presented at the 13th World Congress (R.W. Orlady's "Address to the Craft"). 5. The writers of CHRISTIAN NEWS claim no sort of of the International Council of Christian Churches, Christ alone has redeemed and saved us. We do good infallibility for themselves. They therefore invite readers to which met at the University of British Columbia in works not to earn salvation, but out oflove for Jesus and notify them of any errors of fact, judgment, or theology, Vancouver in 1990. It was accepted with thanks as a which may occur from time to time, so that suitable correc- in gratitude for what He has done for us. It is "by grace study document for the hundreds of smaller conserva- that you are saved through faith .. not of works, lest any tions may be made. tive denominations in the ICCC. The ICCC claims to NOTE: CN subscribes to Religious News Service; these man should boast" (Eph. 2:8-9). Jesus says, "I am the articles are marked as RNS. Reproduced articles are used in have members in some 100 nations. The footnotes are in Way, the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father accordance with the Copyright Revision Act of 1976, Para- the Christian NeVtrs Encyclopedia. except through me" (John 14:6). graph 226 ("Fair Use"). The first part of this address to the ICCC explains Organizations that claim a different way of salvation what is going on within the major denominations ofour or that find "other gods" to he acceptable deny the true day. This issue only includes what we said on The God. To join an organization that professes such a non- Editorials Baptists. The second part explained the reasons for A Christian philosophy, no matter what sort of"Christian" Twentieth Century Formula of Concord. trappings may surround it, is to betray the Truth ofthe The editor is scheduled to speak on June 10 at the Gospel. 14th Congress of the ICCC When it meets from June 9-19 "The Synod has declared itself firmly opposed to all Special Issue in Cape May, New Jersey. societies, lodges, and organizations ofan unchristian or anti-Christian character," say our bylaws. They call on pastors and laypeople alike to avoid membership "in any organization that in its objectives, ceremonies, or prac- On Masonry Why Subscribe totices is inimical to the Gospel of Jesus Christ or the faith This issue of Christian News will not include all the and life of the Christian church." reports, editorials, reviews and letters we originally The pastor is one who cares for souls. He is concerned intended to publish this week in order that we might Christian News?about the spiritual well-being of those entrusted to his have space for articles on Masonry and the battle which Defenders of Masonry observe that such poiiticai care. His responsibilities include instructing members of is going on within the Southern Baptist Convention on conservatives as Senators Strom Thurmond and Jesse the congregation and those seeking membership about whether or not SBC pastors and members should be Helms, Who have even been honored by such conserva- the contradictory public confession that results when a permitted to remain Masons. tive Baptists schools as Bob Jones University, are Ma- person holds membership in organizations that teach Following our long standing practice of publishing sons. For over thirty years CN has been defending free contrary to the Gospel of Jesus Christ (Gal. 1:8-10). both sides of an issue, we are printing many excerpts enterprise and opposing all forms of socialism, including "Earnest, continuous efforts should be put forth to from Masonic publications, the report of the SBC's Home Communism and Nazism. HoWever, CN has noted that bring individuals to a clear-cut decision regarding their Mission board which recommends that Southern Bap- some political conseI^atives are either theologically un- contradictory confessions, in order that they may be- tist Masons be permitted to continue remaining mem- informed or theological liberals. Many of them have come or remain communicant members ofthe congrega- bers of both the SBC and Freemasonry, and documents never read the kind ofscriptural material in this issue of tion," say the bylaws. showing that Masonry is anti-Christian and that all con- CN published by The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. More information about lodges is available from the sistent Christians should withdraw from the Masons. "Freemasonry Divides Missouri Church," reprinted Synod's Commission on Organizations, 1333 S. Kirk- While this issue of CN is being sent to hundreds of recently in CN from the Baptist Word & Way quotes wood Road, St. Louis, MO 63122-7295. Among the SBC churches, we regret that we were unable to get the Rev. Stoney Shaw, a St. Louis SBC pastor: "Our priest- Commission's releases is "Christians and Their Affili- funds to send it to all 38,000 SBC churches. Readers who hood ofthe believer is coming to the point where anybody ations" by Dr. Philip Lochhaas, from which much of this would like to make it possible for us to send this special can believe anything they want." No denomination has column was adapted. The Commission also offers evalu- issue ofMasonry to all SBC churches are invited to help. championed the rights of congregations and laymen ations on a large number of specific organizations. The project will cost about $10,000. Our original plan more than the LCMS. CN has long fought for true Con- was to send four issues ofCN to all SBC churches during gregationalism. However, when a congregation or any of the Weeks prior to the SBC convention. This Would have its members rejects what God clearly teaches in His May a Christian Be cost us about $50,000. Word, then discipline must be taken. Some years ago, when Walter Reuther Was invited to If the SBC continues to allow thousands ofits pastors speak to a convention of the youth of the American to be Masons, we suggest the true Bible believers in the A Lodge Member Lutheran Church at Cobo Hall in Detroit, members of SBC discuss Masonry with the leaders of the LCMS By Dr. James Manz the ALC ordered 14,000 copies of a special issue of (1333 S. ICirkwood, St. Louis, Missouri 63122-7295). An individual claiming to have faith in Jesus may be Christian News on the ALC. The special issue exposed The LCMS does not defend everything said about the a lodge member only if he or she fails to grasp the Reuther's socialistic record and the theological liberal- Masons by various anti-Masons critics. The LCMS's implicatins ofthe Christian faith and/or fails to grasp the ism of the ALC. They Were distributed at the ALC objections are based on Holy Scripture and soUd fact, not implications of the lodge. convention. Southern Baptists, who would like to dis- wild speculation, exaggeration, and lies. See "Ancient One who is bound to God and to His church through tribute thousands of copies of this issue of CN to the Free and Accepted Masons" on page one. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, simply will not join and messengers (delegates) attending the SBC convention in The only regular CN feature included in this issue is support a semireligious organization which officially Houston, should contact us (314-237-3110). Ofcourse, it Bible Stories In Pictures on p. 24. CN is publishing denies the basic teaching ofthe Christian faith. would be best to send this issue of all of the more than the entire Bible in pictures. The project should be com- There are some service and social organizations which 20,000 messengers, who will be attending the SBC pleted in another 2 1/2 years. are not lodges. These groups are useful because they convention, prior to the convention in order to give them We have many SBC friends. Some ofour articles have foster sociability, good business, and civic mindedness. time to read it. However, We do not have the names and appeared in Baptist publications. CN has published They are not objectionable, because they do not involve addresses ofthe messengers. many articles by Baptists. We invite the thousands of a religious commitment. We regret that the Masons refused to debate us on Baptists Who Will be receiving this issue of CN to sub- Other organizations, including those which are truly whether or not MasonIy is anti-Christian. CN in this lodges, are objectionaljle. The Masonic Order is the issue gives Masons and SBC leaders, who believe SBC largest and best known example ofthese. members would be allowed to be Masons, plenty of space The Essence of Christianity Challenged to express their position. It is unfortunate that masons Subscribe to Many admirable people are Masons. They support and these SBC leaders responsible for the report white- fine hospitals and charities which serve children and washing M asonIy will not give equal space to the reasons adults regardless of their religion. This scores a big and why The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod considers wonderful point. But it is not the point considered here. Masonry anti-Christian, and a religion which repudiates Christian News However, Masonry and other anti-Christian or un- the basic doctrines of historic Christianity. Enclosed is $20.00 for a one-year christian secret societies teach and foster tenets and Both the Masons and the Southern Baptists list a long practices which are directly contradictory to the Chris- line of clergymen who were Masons in their attempt to subscription to the weekly Christian News. tian faith and Christian life. show that pastors and laymen should be permitted to be 1. They teach that good works can earn God's eternal masons. CN does not buy that argument. Even sincere Name blessings. Christian leaders may be uninformed and wrong. It is 2. They deny that Jesus Christ is the only Savior and unfortunate that the SBC's Home Mission Board re- Address_ Redeemer from sin's curse and power. jected the position taken by the LCMS on Masonry in the 3. Christless prayers, acceptable also to non-Chris- material the LCMS sent to the SBC. The fact that such tian reUgionists, are part of the ritual of real lodges. modernists as Dr. Norman Vincent Peale, who rejects State _2P_ historic Christianity, are Masons does not prove that The Biblical verdict on all who follow such false Continued on Page 16 Baptists Asked to demand that the ConVention do THE CHRISTIAN NEWS Accept Report what is right.. Ultimately, only May 24,1993 Page 5 God has that right, and at the "White-Washing" Masonry Judgment, He will exercise that right. Perhaps it will only he then Continued from Page 3 that motiVes, attitudes, truth and can, or should, be Masons. equity will be sorted out. For me Many fine conservatiVe, to press the matter of Freema- Bible-belieVing, soul-win- sonIy beyond God's commission ning men can be found on would reflect the pride of saying, both sides of this issue" (68). "I am right, and, until you ac- ^"A number ofanonymous knowledge that, I am going to letters and articles were re- harass you." To believe that I am ceived during the course of this study. .As a general rule, right on this matter is not pride- all unsigned mail was imme- ful. To require that others ac- diately discarded. However, knowledge that rightness, as a one anonymous claim about Vindication of my obedience to evangelist Billy Graham re- God, would be prideful. Man quired investigation. It cannot do that which God has charged, among other things, chosen not to do, i.e., force men to that William Franklin "Billy" walk in God's truth. Graham is a 33rd degree Scot- tish Rite Mason. However, nei- If I have done what God called ther the Northei-n nor the me to, then the failure of the Bishop Carl J. Sanders Southern Jurisdiction has any ConVention in which I fellowship "A Mason Without Apology record that Billy Graham is a to affirm what I now and belieVe Decker. President of Saints Alive Mason. It seems certain that about Freemasonry should not THE SCOTTISH lUTE JOimNAL, if he were a Mason, Masons February, 1993 would publicize his member- cause me to be angry, frustrated Charges Secret Baptist-Mason or depressed. These are natural ship. The anonymous offset is the theme of the FebruaIy, reasoned that if Graham were human emotions. When what you honestly beheve in a critical mat- Collusion Responsible for 1993 special issue of The Scot- not a Mason, he would simply tish Rite Journal, official say so. Graham has evidently ter is dealt with in a rather cava- declined to respond to ques- lier manner by the religious body monthly publication of The Su- tions about whether he is a with which you are affiliated, "White-Wash" Report preme Council, 33°, Ancient and Mason. In some people's Secret collusion between Accepted Scottish Right of Free- they are common emotions. But, scholar, I haVe no bias for or minds, silence is an admis- God has called His people to faith- Baptist officials and Masons was masonry of the Southern Juris- sion of guilt. Therefore, they against Freemasonry, but fulness, not fruitfulness. Jesus responsible for a report which diction, United States of Amer- reason, Graham must be a "white-washed" Masonry says J. wiU seek to present both sides ica. The cover appeared on page Mason. Again, neither the did not say, "Well done, thou Edward Decker, President of of the issue fairly and accu- 1 of the March 8 Christian Northern nor the Southern good and fruitful serVant." He rately.' placed the emphasis where it Saints .AliVe in Jesus, Box 1076, News. Jurisdiction can find any rec- "Yet, in a Leazer letter dated ord that William Franklin belonged, on faithfulness. Issaquah, Washington 98027. The February Scottish Rite January 17, 1993 to a Masonic Journal says that "A Center for "Billy" Graham is a Mason.— If I have been faithful to what Many Baptists churches haVe friend, (T.L. Talbert of Chat- Masonic Information has been Letter stating Graham is not God called me to, if I have main- shown, God-Makeirs, a film a Mason was from John tanooga, TN) and on official SBC set up within the Masonic Serv- tained a right spirit, attitude and prepared by Saints AliVe expos- Boettjer, editor of The Scot- stationary, Gary Laezer told a ice Association. It will answer motive, then even in the face of ing the anti-Christian nature of tish Rite Journal, Decem- different story. In it, he told his the attacks on Masons by the failure, I can have joy, peace, Mormonism. Mormons are now ber 14, 1992 (68). friend that the report was ready anti-Masonic Southern Baptists hope and mercy. As the Lord has threatening a lawsuit oVer God to submit to his boss. Home faction and others. First, 5,000 released me emotionally from the Makers IL Missions Board President, Dr. copies of this issue of The Scot- impending compromise of the Decker wrote in a March 1993 Larry Lewis, ln part, he said, 'I tish Rite Journal will be mailed SBC, I have had joy, peace, hope "Special Update Report:" appreciate all the help that to Southern Baptist leaders and Freemasonry and mercy. "I posed a question last Sep- Masons haVe been to me, Jim tember when I told you about the over 30,000 copies to every Blue I have joy in being called ot be Tresner, editor of The Okla- Lodge in America. Then, before a man of God. I have peace that SBC study on the compatibility homa Mason, and Abner the Southern Baptist ConVen- Luke 17:10 applies to my life in of Freemasonry with Orthodox McCall, former President of is Stiil Christianity. I said, 'Pray with tion in June 1993, the Center the matter of ft-eemasonry.I have Baylor UniVersity, haVe each will use radio, teleVision, and hope that God will not cast off us as the Southern Baptists read the report and offered begin their long awaited newspapers to tell the true story Southern Baptists because of suggestions which I used. of Freemasonry." Anti-Christian their Laodicean spirit, but that study on Freemasonry. There John Boettler asked me to He will continue to knock, seek- has been tremendous pres- Christian News has been read the proof of the Febru- publishing reports from Various ing entrance into the corridorsiof sure put to bear on the Home ary issue of The Scottish Rite Continued from Page 1 power which have been estab- Missions Board as it begins Southern Baptists who claim Journal which I did in De- Masonry is incompatible with lished in the bureaucracy we this momentous study. Much cember. It will be on Freema- know as the SBC. I have hope of it comes from the powerful Christianity and that SBC min- means that everyone in Christ sonry and religion and will isters shouid not be Masons. has direct access to God through that the seed of truth in the seven- Masonic leadership within be sent to either 3,000 or 4,000 page HMB trustee report and the church to go easy on the Some of the articles Christian Christ; it does not mean that non-Mason Southern Bap- News has published during the everyone can beheve or practice recommendation will grow until fraternity. . . . How can the tists.' [Ed: It contains a major Holy Spirit of God operate in past 30 years, which tell the truth Whatever he will. The doctrine Southern Baptists courageously attack against Dr. Holly and cast off the shackles of Freema- local churches where the- about Masonry, are in The does mean that the church will others.] Christian News Encyclope- not use coercive methods to re- sonry. I have mercy in asking leadership bows at the pa- ".After some criticism about dia. Christian News is seeking quire individuals to accept the God to forgive Southern Baptists gan altar of Jaobulon? Will Dr. Holly, Leazer said, 'It is es- funds to send CN to all 38,000 truth. It does not mean that the for their compromise, and to give they soon do it with the stud- sential that as many Southern Southern Baptist Churches to church will fail to declare the them the courage to acknowl- ied approVal of the Home Baptist Masons get to the SBC as inform the SBC churches why "whole counsel of God," in the edge the truth about the nature, Missions Board? God Forbid!' possible.' This Masonic call to Masonry is incompatihile with face of which individuals will goals and origins of Freemasonry. Little did I know that it was arms was an echo of an article in Christianity and why Christian make personal judgments. The There is no more than I can already a done deal, that Dr. the February Masonic Journal, pastors should not be Masons. doctrine does mean that every do, but more importantly, it is Gary Leazer, head of the Study which he edited. C. Frederick Kleinnecht, 33°, man is accountable to God di- my conviction, that there is no from the Home Missions Board, "In a March 4, 1993 Baptist Sovereign Grand Commander rectly for his own sins; it also more that I should do. There is would work in secret collusion Press article. Dr. Lewis stated and editor in chief of the Scot- means that we are accountable much that the leadership of the with key Baptist Masons, com- that Dr. Leazer has been remoVed tish Rite Journal says in the for the sins of others, if we do not SBC, the HMB staff and the HMB mitted from the start to bring a from his leadership in the study, February Scottish Rite clearly warn them of their sin. trustees can do. More impor- white-washed report to the 1993 but faces no disciplinaIy action. Journal that: tantly, there is much more that Convention. Praise God that a The 107-page, HMB-staff The Leazer report is finished, he "Freemasonry has always they should do. Confident of the secret letter written by Dr. study has Southern Baptists vir- said, and will not be set aside. To sovereignty of God, and hopeful Leazer, revealing this evil act, welcomed men of all faiths and tually embracing the Masonic us, this is a heinous misuse of of the sincerity of His people. I made its way into the right hands. religious l)ehefs to enter its doors" Lodge. The seven-page trustee authority. The Leazer report must now trust, that in time, "Baptist churches beware! (4) "... we allow each Mason to report and recommendation has is a fraud! Dr. Larry Lewis must an element of truth, but it is they will do it. The Masons are already sys- choose the Book of his own faith tematically working to obtain the act. Drop him a note with your as his guide. Freemasonry, there- weakly stated, and seems to be 'Therefore, it is my intention thoughts. He can he reached at crafted in such a way as to allow at the SBC in Houston to have Messenger positions from every fore, welcomes to its ranks Chris- Baptist church in the convention the HMB, 1350 Spring Street, tians, Jews, Mushms, Buddhists, it to be ignored. This has caused the joyful countenance which NW, Atlanta, GA 30367." me to reconsider my goals in the comes from obeying God. It is my in order to fill the convention and all good men of whatever task that began in March of 1992. intention, after the SBC in Hous- vvith Masons who will shoot down ic-ligion who truly aspire to live As I understand my commission ton, to turn my full and complete the opposition for once and for Masonry Answers according to the Creator's will" from God in this matter, it was attention to the primary calling all. The battle lines have been (5) . that Southern Baptists have an of God upon my life. In the min- drawn and we must stand strong! Christian Critics Fred W. .'VlcPealce opportunity to divest themselves istry brochure which describes Don't let them get away with this is a member of the of the impediment of the Ma- the Men's Conference Ministry overt maIiipuIation ofthe church! Baptist faith and has If they win in June, they will own served his church in sonic Lodge. That opportunity of Mission and Ministry to Men, Continued from Page 1 various capacities. He has been provided. The question Inc., that calling is defined as: the SBC Baptists! Use the Re- is the Executive Secre- which I must now face is, "Have "being a godly man turn Card to order copies of Larry 1 J M tary of Scottish Rite leading critics of Masonry. The Afaiotr in East Ten- I done what I should, and what whose life testifies to the Holly's greatly expanded book on the Freemasons and the LCMS says that Masonry is a re- ^^^MS^^^B^I^ nessee. He also a should I do now?" love and grace of Jesus ^^^^V^^^^^l member the Southern Baptist Church and get ligion which teaches that the Apparently, if it had been left Christ and gives glory to them out to your Pastors and Holy Trinity is not the only true 1^^^^ ^^^^B Legion of Honor to the leadership ofthe Conven- Him; who can speak with Boards ASAP!" God and that Masonry denies ^^^M DeMolay. and Royal tion, the HMB staff and a major- authority. Thus saith the the central Christian doctrine of •••••H Order of Scotland. He "Is the Southern Baptist is Past Sovereign of ity of HMB trustees, a far more Lord,' thereby seeing oth- justification by faith alone compromising report and recom- ers brought into the king- Study on Freemasonry a Red Cross of Conslantine. President of Knox- Masonic Fraud??? through the merits of Jesus ville Cliapter of National Sojourners and Chair- mendation would have been forth dom of God and into an Christ. The LCMS claims that man Education Committee of Grand Lodge. abundant, disciplined walk coming. However, because of a "Last summer, It became Masoniy is one ofthe many relig- THE SCOmSJI RITE JOURNAL, few courageous trustees, whose with the Lord Jesus apparent that the SBC Home ions of the law which say that a deeds will be awarded their merit Christ." Missions Board study on Free- Fehruiirv. IBB.^ person must do good works to get Baptist Masons Should at the Judgement Seat of Christ, I do this with joy and expec- masonry was less than enthusi- to heaVen. Surveys show that Southern Baptists will not suffer tancy. It is my prayer today, that astic over Anti-Masonic input to many church members, regard- Attend Convention the humiliation of a complete God, in His mercy, will call His their study. In a July 13, 1992 less of denominational afiiliation, Fred W. McPeake, 33°, a compromise on Masonry. people to Himself once again. My letter to Dr. Larry Holly, Dr. believe that man must work at Southern Baptist, is the author Yet, the reality is that the experience today is one of Gary Laezer wrote, T was some- least in part, his way to heaven. of "Southern Baptist ConVention" SBC has the right to compro- abounding love for Christ, of what shocked at the report Many church members agree in The Scottish Rite Journal. The editor says: "Brother mise. I had the responsibility to awareness of my own failures, that quoted you as suggest- with Masons who say that all re- bring the matter of Freemasonry and of a sincere and genuine hope ing that the Interfaith Wit- McPeake, who will be a messen- ligions were fabricated by man ger (delegate) to the upcoming to the attention of God's people, that God will use Southern Bap- ness Department might not and that no single religion is the Southern Baptist Convention in but I do not have the responsibil- tists as a vehicle for bringing real approach this study with in- one and only saving faith. reviVal to America. tegrity and honesty.... As a June, 1993, tells how important ity, or the right, I believe, to "Freemasonry and Religion" Continued on Page 6 tory. Among many others, there are: worship service" (23). trict Deputy and a FelloW of the THE CHRISTIAN NEWS Masonry Answers • Rev. Charles T. Aikens, who serves "Freemasonry's teachings are as President of the Lutheran Synod of Texas Lodge of Research. He May 24, 1993 Page 6 Eastern Pennsyivania, acceptable to all religions. They became a 32° Mason in 1952,..." Christian Critics - Bishop James Freeman, the Episco- uphold the values of faith in a The Scottish Rite Joumal pai Bishop of Washington, D.C, who first secular world. Freemasonry is, includes parts of an address by Continued from Page 5 conceived and began the construction of therefore, an organization for the N a t i o n a l Cathedrai, George W. Truett, Freemason Norman Vincent Peale it is for other Baptist Masons to • Bishop Wiliiam F. Anderson, one of thoughtful Christians" (25). from the proceedings of the The writings of Norman attend the conVention." McPeake the most important ieaders ofthe United Rev. Lou Lightfoot, 32°, Pas- Grand Lodge of Texas, 1940. Vincent Peale have been mentions that Senator Jesse Methodist Church, tor, East Dayton Baptist Cliurch, Paul M. Neff, President of widely circulated by political • Wiiiiam R. White, 33°, who served as Dayton, Kentucky, writes "I am conserVatives. Leading con- Helms is "a Baptist Deacon and a President of Bayior, and Secretary of the Baylor University and 'Truett's serVatiVe political figiu«s and Mason." He says that "It is ur- Sunday schooi Board, Southern Baptist a Southern Baptist Minister and Masonic Brother" introduced gently important that Masons Convention, have been preacliing for 30 years. Truett sa3dng: 'The First Presi- such prominent eVangelicals Who are Baptists get themselves See "A Reiigious (Quality, Not a Reli- I am also a Freemason, a Knights dent ofBaylor Was a Mason, and as Billy Graham worship with gion" on page 64 of this issue. Templar, a York and Scottish him. Yet Peale does not ac- elected messengers by their local • Rev. Lansing Burrows, Civii War with the probable exception of cept historic Christianity. churches, attend the convention, hero and Secretary of the Southern Bap- Rite Mason" (25). eight years, the Masonic history EVen the .American Lutheran, tist Convention. and vote" (8). Jack J. Early of Which is not clear, for at least which in the last years of its • Rev. James C. Baker, who created is an ordained United publication defended liberal James B. Wilkinson the Wesiey Foundation, 85 or 90 years of the nearly 100 Methodist minister il Senior Judge in • Rev. Hugh l . Evans, who served as years of the existence ofBaylor causes, noted that "Nowhere and a former Slate does;; Dr. Peale "lay hold of Virginia's Thirteenth nationai head of a Presbyterian Church. Representative in the University, a Master Mason has the life, death, and resurrec- Judicial Circuit and a It is useful on this question, to let Kentucky Legislature. been at the head and presided a "•<"<*"• of Bon Air some of America's most honored ciergy He has served as over the destinies of this institu- tion of Clirist as facts by wliich J^L Baptist Church in speak for themseives. Cari J. Sanders, President of Dakota man has been reconciled to ^^Bw Richmond. Virginia. 33°, Bishop ofthe United Mediodist Church Wesleyan University, tion." God. Faith in the atoning ^ .^^B He has taught Sunday and hoider ofthe highest honor, the Grand Pfeiffer College, and Truett said during the speech Christ, who will come again I ^^^H School for 40 years Cross, conferred by the scottish Rite of Limestone College. A published in the Scottish Rite in glory, is apparently not the l;^^^^H and served as Clerl: of Freemasonry, Southern Jurisdiction, USA, long-time member of content, object, and core of ^^^^H his former church for writes: "My Masonic activities have never Middlelown Lodge Joumal: 'The Masonic Frater- j^^^H 30 consecutive years. interfered with my loyalty to and my love No, 732, he is also nity is one of the most helpfully Dr. Peale's theology." (Ameri- ^^^^H Bro:. Wilkinson a for my Church. Quite to the contrary, my a member of the mediating and concerning or- can Lutheran, NoVember, HJj^^K member of the Lodge ioyaity to my Church has been strength- Louisvilte-DeMolay Commandery No. 12 ganizations among men, and I 1966) D r . William Ward Ayer of Strict Observance. ened by my Masonic ties. Good Masons K:,T:, and the Scottish Rile Valley of of Manhattan's CalVary have never Wavered from that No. 207, Richmond. Virginia, and this year. are good Churchmen." [see page 59.] Louisville, Kentucky. Chiu-ch wrote in a letter pub- 199}. he is the Grand Senior Warden of the Dr. James P. Wesberry, 32°, childhood impression, but it has lished i n the M a y 1, 1955 AC- Grand Lodge of Virginia. K. . C . .C. .H.., former Executive Director stood steadfastly With me TION (National Association of and Editor of the Baptist pubiication Dr. Jack J. Early, 33°, Chap- THE SCOTTISH RITE JOURNAL. through the busy and vast hur- Simday, writes: "It is no secret that lain, Scottish Rite Valley of Lou- Evangelicals' magazine) alx>ut rying years" (35). Dr. Peale: "Actually he has February, 1993 Masons iove and revere the Bibie, nor is it isville, writes: 'To set the record a secret that Masonry heiped to preserve started a new cult in religion. it in the darkest age of the church when straight, I want to state I am an To define it clearly is beyond Mason James B. Wilkinson, a Donavon D. Tidwell infideiity sought to destroy it. The Bible ordained United Methodist min- Baptist Who has taught Sunday was a distinguished my ability, but it has a good meets Masons with its sacred message at ister and a member of the Ma- professor of the deal of Mary Raker Eddy in it School for 40 years, Writes that every step of progress in its various De- sonic Lodge for over 40 years. Bible and Greek at without that ladj^s complete "Baptist Masons concerned about grees." Houston. Texas, annihilation of reality .... The Reverend Louis R. Gant, 33°, There are many ministers and the Southern Baptist Conven- Baptist College, and Mason and District Superintendent of the Peale's philosophy is so high- rabbis who are ordained in their became chairman of tion, for instance, should consult Methodist Church, writes: "Let no one say sounding, so full of secondary respective bodies and who hold its Division of Chris- their conscience and, possibly you cannot be a Christian and a Mason at gospel truth that millions of tianity. He served as the same time. I know too many who are an active Masonic membership" his patrons fail to see that the become messenger-delegates to President of the both and proud to be both." (26). 'The cornerstone ofMasonry their church's meeting in Hous- Southwestern Baptist basic redemptive truth of the But we are proud, as Masons, that is belief in God, the Great Archi- Bible Teacher Asso- gospel is completely ignored. ton, Texas, June 14-17, 1993)." members of all faiths have found vaiue in tect and Masterbuilder of the ciation and wrote a Unless one is deeply discern- WiUiam J. (Will) Rogers, 32° the Fraternity. Rabbi Seymour Atias, 33°, book entitled Baptist ing it will not be noticed that and hoider of some of the highest Masonic Universe; there is no other foun- Scottish Rite Bodies of Memphis, and Freemasonry. In honors, writes of what he finds in Ma- dation; upon (iod MasonIy builds Peale has caricatured God, ig- Tennessee, Writes: Masonry, he was Grand Orator of the Grand sonry: "I was brought up in a religious nored sin and its needed re- its temple. Masonry believes in Lodge of Texas as well as a District Deputy "In the December, 1992, issue home, a son of a Rabbi w i t h seven genera- pentence. Peale presents a the Fatherhood of God and prac- and a Fellow of Ihe Texas Lodge of Re- tions of Rabbis preceding me .... I am of The Scottish Rite Journal search. He became a 32° Mason in 1952, very convenient God who is a to be a Maeon who believee in the tices the Brotherhood of Man" tliere was a very timely article proMd K,\L:.C:.H.\ in 1V57, an Inspector Gen- »ort of'glorified bellboy."" dignity of God's chiidren and opposes (28). eral Honorary, 33°. in 1967, and passed From On the anti-Masonic movement hatred and bigotry, and stands for truth, The Christian News away in 1982 in Waco, Texas. within the Southern Baptist justice, kindness, integrity and righteous- Encyclopedia. ness for aii." Convention. Norman Vincent Pcaie "As an active Southern Bap- Is Masonry Anti-Christian? is known worldwide for R. Stephen Doan. tist Mason, I am very concerned No, Masonry is not anti any his milestone book The is Ihe youngest Cali- POwerof Positive Thinic- fornia Grand Master about the anti-Masonic move- religion. This charge is raised by in seventy years. He ing and for founding, ment, but I am encouraged by some anti-Masonic writers. (16- is a Thirty-third De- the reaction ofour church. First 17) with Ruth Stafford gree Mason and Past Baptist Church, Lexington, Peale. the Peale Center Venerable Master of "... the God to whom Masons for Christian Living in Ihe Los Angeles Tennessee, which has about pray is the God to whom all Pauling,NewYork.Or- Scottish Rile. His be- 1,500 members. Christians pray" (18). domed a Methodist Masonic career gan in DeMolay minister in 1922, Dr. "Our church has an unusu- '•Is Masonry 'guilty' of teach- This biographical sketch on Dr. where he was Ihe ally large number of Masons and ing toleration? George W. Truett, a great Southern Peale has served 60 Master Councilor of our pastor. Dr. Hoyt Wilson, a "Yes. And proud ofit! It seems Baptist leader who was also a Mason, years as Senior Minis- Ihe Southern Cali- non-Mason, has expressed in the a strange accusation, but anti- notes his many contributions to Free- ter of New York City's fornia Jurisdiction. masonry and the Southern Baptists. Marble Collegiate pulpit his whole-hearted support Masonic writers often charge that Church and is well known as a speaker, broad- Freemason in my heart and so I of the Mason movement within we accept people with many dif- caster, humaniuirian, and publisher o/GuideposU will remain. I am proud of my our community. He took the time ferent religious viewpoints as Gregory W. Truett— magazine. He is a member ofMidwood Lodge No. involvement. I am proud to walk on at least one Sunday to express Brothers. They are correct" (22). Great Southern 1062, Brooklyn, NY, and has served as Grand in fraternal fellowship with my his support of Freemasonry." "Does Freemasonry teach that Chaplain of the Grand Lodge of New York and Brethren. Why am I a Freema- Baptist Leader Imperial Grand Chaplain of Ihe Shrine. Jim Tresner is Ihe Director of the Masonic Leadership Institute. He An article on Dr. George W. son? Simply because I am proud is also Director of the 33° Conferral Team al his Temple and Truett says: "This biographical Mason to be a man who wants to keep Director ofthe Work at the Guthrie Scottish Rite Temple in Guthrie. sketch of Dr. George Truett, a the moral standards of hfe at Oklahoma. He holds a BA. with majors in Communications. The- Nor1nan Vincent Peale high level and leave something atre. English and Psychology, a MA. in Communication Theory, a great Southern Baptist leader Rev. Dr. Norman Vincent MSA. and a PhD in Business Communications. He has served on who was also a Mason, notes his behind so others Will benefit. Ihe editorial board of Ihe Scoltish iliie Joumai. is on the staff of T\\e Peale 33° is the author of "What many contributions to Freema- Only as I, personally, become Gidahoma Scouish liilc Mason, serves as a video script consultant lo FreemasonIy Means to Me" in the National Masonic Renewal Committee, and is editor of The sonry and the Southern Baptists" better, can I help others to do the Okiahoma Mason. He is considered a scholar in Ihe interpretation the February Scottish Rite same" (39-41). (29). Journal. The editor comments: of Masonic symbols and ritual and has authored numerous articles, After quoting Truett, The Masoiuy Not a Religion video scripts, and booklets on Masonic subjects. "One of America's most outstand- Scottish Rite Journal says: R. Stephen Dean, 33°, Grand ing ministers and Masons ex- Master Grand Lodge of Califor- THE SCOTTISH RITE JOURNAL, February, 1993 'The man who spoke these words plains how Freemasonry adds Was forty-seven years pastor of nia Free and Accepted Masons Masonic No Religion 'another dimension to living' writes in an open letter in the man can be saved by good works? the First Baptist Church of Dal- while not conflicting with reli- Jim Tresner, 33°, Grand Mas- "The charge is sometimes las, Texas. During those years, Scottish Rite Journal to the gion." The back cover of the Director of the Interfaith Wit- ter of Oklahoma, writes: "Is leveled against us by anti-Ma- the membership grew from 75 to Scottish Rite Journal has a Masonry a Religion? No, not by sons who mistake both the na- 7,804, the largest church then ness Department, the office of full color photograph of Peale. the Southern Baptist Conven- the definition most people use. ture of Masonry and the mean- among Southern Baptists. Pat Peale writes: "My grandfather Rehgion, as the term is commonly ings ofits Ritual. Salvation is not M. Neff, president of Baylor tion ordered to investigate Free- was a Mason for 50 years, my fa- masonIy: used, implies several things; a grace which Masonry can or does University, introduced him to the ther for 50 years, and I have been plan of salvation or path by which offer.. . Grand Lodge as 'Baylor Univer- a Mason for over 60 years. This "I understand that you are one reaches the afterlife; a theol- "In most Masonic Rituals, the sity's most gifted son; he is the means my tie with Freemasonry gathering information as to ogy which attempts to describe, candidate is reminded of that first citizen of the State of Texas; extends back to 1869 when my whether Freemasonry is compat- the nature of God; and the de- even before he steps into the he is the best known and most grandfather joined the Masons." ible with Christianity. As Grand scription of ways or practices by Lodge room for the first time. A loved religious leader today in "Prominent among this select Master of Masons in California which a man or woman may seek typical example reads: You are the World, this fine exemplar of group are George Washington, and a licensed Lay Reader in the to communicate with God. aware that whatever a man may all the virtues and beauties of Harry Truman, and 12 other Episcopal Church, I would like "Masonry does none of these have gained here on earth, Masonry'" (30). presidents as well as countless to share some thoughts on the things, we offer no plan of salva- whether of titles, wealth, hon- "For thirty-seven summers he statesmen and benefactors of subject." tion." "Have some Masonic ors, or even his own merit, can was the preacher at the annual humanity" (39). "Masonry is not a religion. writers said that Masonry is never serve him as a passport to Cowboy Camp Meetings in the Religion deals vvith salvation, the a religion? Yes, and, again, it's heaven; but precious to his gain- "Freemasonry is not a reli- preparation of our spirit for its Davis Mountains ofWest Texas. gion though, in my experience. a matter ofdefinition. If, as some ing admission there he must He served as president of the return to the God who gave it. writers have, you define religion become poor and destitute, blind Masons have predominantly Masonry, on the other hand, is Southern Baptist Convention been religious men and, for the as 'man's urge to venerate the and naked, dependent upon the from 1927-1929 and ofthe Bap- about ethics: right and wrong beautiful, serve the good and see Sovereign Will of God; he must most part, ofthe Christian faith. conduct in the here and now. tist World Alhance from 1934- I have had the opportunity to God in everything,' you can say be divested of the rages of his 1939" (31). Confusion sometimes arises be- that Masonry subscribes to a own righteousness, and be break bread with good men of cause religion talks about ethics Commenting on the author of other than my own Christian religion. But that, surely, is not clothed in a garment ftirnished— the article on Truett, The Scot- too, but its focus is different. in connict with Christianity or him from on high" (23). faith. Freemasonry does not pro- Salvation, not ethics, distin- tish Rite Joumal says: "Do- mote any one religious creed. .All any other faith" (15). "Is a Masonic serVice a naVon D. Tidwell was a distin- guishes religion. Masonry deals Masons lieUeve in the Deity with- exclusively with ethics. The Grandmaster of Okla- worship serVice? guished professor of the Bible out reservation. However, Ma- homa vvrites: "No. Except, perhaps, in the and Greek at Houston, Texas, sonIy makes no demands as to "Nowhere in our Masonic Can a Man Be a Christian sense that, for a Christian, Baptist College, and became how a memljer tliinks ofthe Great Ritual is there a promise to our And a Mason at the Same EVERY act is an act of worship. chairman ofits Division of Chris- Architect of the Universe." members that tliey will go to Time? Our meetings opien and close with tianity. He served as President Heaven if they are good Masons. "... men of different religions perhaps the best answer is that most prayer. Masons are encouraged of the Southwestern Baptist Recognized Masonry in this coun- of us are, at least in the United States. to remember that God sees nnH Bible Teacher Association and meet in fellowship and brother- try has never sought to be a The ranlts of Masonry have been and are knows everything we do, and the wrote a book titled Baptists and hood under the fatherhood of means for salvation. It is self- distinguished by many of the outstanding Bible is always open during a Freemasoniy. In Masonry, he God." improvement in this world for reiigious leaders of America. A quick scan 'To me. Freemasonry is one through the book 10,000 Famous Free- Masonic meeting. But it is a was Grand Orator of the Grand which we labor as Masons. We form of dedication to God and masons, gives us these names from his- meeting of a fraternity, not a Lodge of Texas as Well as a Dis- service to humanity. I too was a Continued on Page 7 sonry requires a member believe son's soul" (53). ganda." Roy was the pastor of THE CHRISTIAN NEWS Masonry Answers in a Supreme Being. However, 'There are those who \ ould Various Baptist churches for May 24, 1993 Page 7 the interpretation of that Su- require that a person not only be more than 40 years. He was Christian Critics preme Being is left to the discre- a Baptist but that he believes in Grand Master of the Grand Lodge Warren C. Hullgren tion of each Brother's religious inerrancy" (53). of Mason in Massachusetts in was raised a Mason Continued from Page 6 in 1956 in Lake beliefs. Recognizing major relig- Methodist Bishop 1951-53. He wrote that "while Charles. LA. Lodge striVe for admission to HeaVen ions without endorsing one is a Bishop Carl Sanders of the Freemasonry is religious, it is No. 155, and he be- hallmark of the tolerance of came a Scottish Rite through our religious prepara- United Methodist Church is the not eVen in the remotest sense a Mason in Guthrie. tion, not through Freemasonry. Freemasonry." author of "A Mason Without religion. We haVe prayers, it is OK. before affiliating "Some religious critics mis- "The mission of Freemasonry Apology." He writes: "In 50 years true, invocations to Deity. But with the S. R. Bodies is to promote a way of life that of Tulsa. A graduate construe that portion of the as a minister and as a Mason, I Congress opens its sessions with ofSoutliwesiern Bap- Masonic funeral serVice When the binds like-minded men in a have found no conflict between prayer, and no one has ever sug- tist Titeological Semi- Master declares that the lamb- WorldWide brotherhood that my Masonic behefs and my Chris- gested that our legislature is a nary, among other skin apron is representatiVe of transcends all religious, ethnic, tian faith. I have not found and religion. The Republican and schools, he received that purity of life and conduct so cultural, social and educational do not now find that Freema- Democratic ConVentions opened his Ph.D. from the California Graduate School of Theology and essentially necessary, like faith differences; by teaching the great sonry is 'incompatible with Chris- with prayer—and such prayers presently holds seven Honorary Doctorates in and grace, to gaining admission principles of Brotherly LoVe, tian faith and practice'" (60). they were! But not eVen the most Divinity. Literature, and Humane Letters in- into the Celestial Lodge aboVe. Relief, and Truth; and, by out- Baylor President ardent members of either con- cluding one in Sacred Theology from South- west Baptist University in 1982. Brother Ward expression of these, through Does this mean that we get to Dr. Herbert Reynolds, 33°, the vention would call it a religion. Hullgren was Chairman of the Trustees of tlie HeaVen hy good works as a its fellowship, its compassion and current president of Baylor Uni- Colleges have religious services,- Sunday Scluiol Board. Soulliern Baptist Con- Mason? No! It means that we its concern, to find ways in which versity, which is associated with some of them daily Chapel, but vention, 1988-89. hope to be unblemished in our to serVe God, family, country, the Southern Baptist Conven- nobody ever called a college or SCOTTISH RITE JOtiRNAL, record of what our God wants us neighbors, and self." tion, writes: "I have been a Ma- educational program a religion." February, 1993 to be, regardless of our individ- Former President of son for the past forty years, "We have no marks of a reli- in all this. The fundamentalist ual religious belief, the nature of Baylor having been raised as a Master gion. We have no creed, and no leaders, who are so fond of recit- that God, or that God's expecta- Mason in Alamo Lodge No. 44, confession of faith in a doctrinal ing earlier persecutions of their tions of us. For a Christian, it Abner V. McCall, 33°, Grand Cross, President, Scottish Rite San Antonio, Texas. Over the statement. We have no theology. church, absolutely refuse to ac- means a life of faith and right- years I have never considered for We have no ritual of worship" knowledge that Freemasonry eousness. Foundation of Texas, President Emeritus, Baylor UniVersity, a a moment that FreemasonIy was (71). had a major role in ending that "Some religious critics allege Southern Baptist school, is the a religion but, like religion, it can "It is the glory of Masoniy persecution, and in shaping a that Masons swear oaths on the author of "In Response to the make good men even better be- that a man who believes implic- system of government that gives Bible with penalties which they Inquiry Whether Membership in cause of its noble principles" (64). itly in the deity of Christ, and a them complete freedom of ex- do not intend to enforce and a Masonic Lodge is Incompatible man who says that he cannot go pression. The toleration that they Sidney S. Gulhman that far, can meet as Brothers in so desperately needed to survive therefore commit blasphemy. With Membership in a Baptist is coauthor of sabbath Any thoughtful Mason knows Church." President Emeritus Eve Services and their acknowledgement of the and to grow is now condemned as that these penalties are symbolic McCall writes: "I joined Baylor Hymns and a member sovereignty of the Supreme against the will of God. Having only. Religions are rich and sym- Lodge No. 1235, A:F:&A:M:, oVer of the Civil Service Being, the Maker of HeaVen and been rescued and protected by Commission of Long Earth, and in their acknowledge- others, they now feel strong boHsm also. fifty years ago and haVe since Beach. California. "Some religious groups criti- serVed in a score of Masonic or- Rabbi Gulhman is the ment of their duty to love Him enough to attack those who were cize us because Masons who are ganizations. For seVenty years I former Grand Chap- with heart and mind and soul their best friends at a time when lain of the Grand and strength" (72). they needed friends" (83). Christians allow Muslims, Bud- have obseirved and been involved Lodge of California in dhists, Jews £tnd other non-Chris- in FreemasonIy. I have worked Los Angeles and is VViliiam M . Suttles The Scottish Rite Journal tians to join and respect these in thousands of meetings with now serving as Chap- holds Master's De- includes "Freemasonry and Re- lain at the Veterans grees in Divinity, The- ligion—Statement of the Board members' right to belieVe in a Masons" (49). Administration Medical ology, and Religious diVine word other than the New Center in Long Beach and as Rabbi of Congre- Education from, re- of General Purposes—United gation Sholom. Leisure World. California. and Old Testaments. We are '"]^;^; "'•••-••'Mil John iE:dwin Johns spectively, the Univer- Grand Lodge of England, June criticized because Masons who ^ * been president SCOTTISH RITE JOiniNAL, sities of Yale. Emory, 12,1985." The statement says in February, 1993 cmd Auburn. During part: "The Supreme Being— are Christians do not deny that hisfifity-year academic non-Christian Masons can be Rabbi—Masonry Unites and administrative ca- The names used for the Supreme saVed. Do Christians have a t of Furman Univer- reer at Georgia Stale Being enable men of different sity since 1976. A Men of All Faiths monopoly on ethical behavior? University. Atlanta, he faiths to join in prayer (to GOD .... native of Florida, he Rabbi Sidney S. Guthman, held many important Why should a consideration of earned his under- as they see Him) without the 32°, K:C:C:H; is the author of posts, including Execu- graduate degree at terms of the prayer causing dis- ethics be limited to the members "Freemasonry a Religion? How tive VicePresident, and of one religious group? Because Furman and his MA. he now holds the titles sension among them. and Ph.D. degrees Wrong Can You Be?" Rabbi Masonjy does not deal with sal- of Professor Emeritus and Provost Emeritus at 'There is no Masonic God: A in history at the Uni- Guthman is the former Grand that university. Dr. Suttles is a member of the vation, what is the relevance of versity of North Scottish Rite Bodies ofAltanta. Georgia. Freemason remains committed Carolina. In 1936. Chaplain of the Grand Lodge of its members' various views on California. The Scottish Rite SCOTTISH RFTE JOURNAL, to the God ofthe religion he pro- that subject?" he was recognized as February, 1993 one of the nation's Journal comments on his ar- fesses" (84). "Our membership require- 100 most effective ticle: "A Jewish Brother asserts James E. Dunn, Executive Di- ments are simple: we require only college presidents in a survey sponsored by "Dr. WilHam M. Suttles, 32°, rector Baptist Joint Committee, the Exxon Education Foundation. He be- Freemasonry' is an institution a belief in God. Therefore men of that unites men of all faiths in is the author of "My Father and Washington, D.C, is the author came a Mason in 1954 and is presently serv- I Ministers, Educators and Ma- any faith who have this one ing as Chaplain of Ihe Grand Lodge of South service to Almighty God, society, of "A Free Church in a Free simple belief may belong." Carolina. A member of the Greenville. SC. sons." He writes: 'The Masonic State—A Masonic Heritage for Conducted Many Scottish Rite Bodies, he was honored with and freedom" (66). Rabbi Guth- Degree work was biblical, beau- All." Dunn writes: "Freemasonry Masonic Services the Thirty-third Degree in 1987. man writes: "But in Freema- tiful, and very meaningfiil. I shall is one of the staunchest allies of Dr. Leon Larimore, First President of Furman sonry, anyone can belong if he always remember the open Bible all real believers in a free church Baptist Church, Horse Cave, John E. Johns, Ph.D. 33°, believes in God and the immor- upon the altar and the many in a free state. Kentucky, writes: "I have been a President of Furman University, tality of the soul and earns the occasions that I have knelt there "How then can any religious member of the Masonic Lodge Greenville, South Carolina, and approval of his fellows. Consider, for prayer. group ostensibly dedicated to ft-ee since the early I950's. In 1960 I Basil Manly IV, M.D., 33°, a for example, the usual commun- "I have been a minister and and moral agency, personal faith, was chosen as Grand Chaplain Baptist deacon and trustee of ion breakfast. Earher, our Chris- educator for over 54 years and the priesthood of all believers of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky, Baptist Theological Seminary, tian Brethren gathered in a have served one Baptist church and basic American values chal- and I serVed as Chairman ofthe Richmond, Va., are the authors church, our Jewish Brethren in a for over 42 years of those 54 years. lenge the right of the church Committee on Religious Inter- of "Is Freemasonry Compatible synagogue; later, after separate I have made my liVing in educa- members to be active Masons est. "As a minister ofthe Gospel With Christianity?" They write: worship, we all gather together tion; but, like my father, I have and church leaders? in tbe Southern Baptist Conven- "Masonry is not a religion. It is a about a common breaking of made my life in serving our Lord. "Could it he that the assaults tion since September 1934,1 have fraternity of men who, first of all, bread as Freemasons and as "I have been a Mason for al- on Freemasony are really a never witnessed the opening of a must believe in one God. It is a Brothers. This simple fact gives most 50 years, and my Masonic smoke screen for those who deni- Masonic Lodge without an open religious organization in that it concrete, emphatic focus to the membership has made me a bet- grate tbe ail-American doctrine Bible and prayer to our Heav- encourages members to support phrase we have so often heard ter minister, educator, and per- of church-state separation?" (86). enly Father. I have spoken to each individual's faith whether and, perhaps, not fully compre- son" (78). many Lodges and conducted he is Christian, Mushm, Hebrew, hended: The Brotherhood of Man Warren C. Hultgren, 33°, Pas- James M. DunD many Masonic seI-vices. I have or other monotheistic believer. Under the Fatherhood of God'" tor Emeritus, First Baptist 1.1 Executive Director (67). 'Though synagogue and of the Baptist Joint used the same Bible and the same Masonic teachings are based Church, Tulsa, Oklahoma, Committee, a reli- church may continue to divide message from it that I would in largely on Old and New Testa- writes: "All my life I have been a gious liberty agency church. Never have I heard us, the spirit of our Masonic committed Christian and church of ten natioruit Bap- ment principles, but also on other tist bodies with over Masonry referred to as a religion religious teachings—all honor- Brotherhood unites us; and person. Masonry has always in- though our prayer books may be twenty million mem- by any ofiIcer or member of a able" (52). dicated to me that an individual bers. It is the oidy many, our prayer as Freemasons Lodge in session." "Masonry accepts good men just find and follow liis own faith" church lobby that is one" (67). (83). focuses only on into its membership and hopes church-stale rela- William G. lllnlcn Founder of is the junior Past to make them better. It encour- Persecuted Persecute Grand Master of the ages the individual to think for Baylor University Grand Lodge of Ken- Master Mason John J. Robins himself and determine what his The Scottish Rite Journal SCOTTISH RITE JOURNAL, \ lucky. F.: AA.:M.: writes: "One thing is very clear own religious faith will be. It says that R.E.B. Baylor, "author February, 1993 ^ > He is a member of Ilie of the charter of his namesake \« .i?;.^ '(enlucky Scol- teaches the Jew to be a better ^ifa lish Rile Bodies in Jew; the Christian to be a better university" was "a Freemason for Masons Commend Baptist Report t^KL^^^ Madisonvitte. Ken- Christian; the Muslim to be a 63 years. In recognition of Free- ^^^L tucky, where lie serves better Muslim" (52). masonry's historic tie to Baylor ^^^K ^^^B as Class Director. A University, the Scottish Rite of A Historic Moment ^^^^L B^^^^B seninr DeMotay ami "Many of our country's Found- Freemasonry, Southern Jurisdic- ^^^H ^'''i^' Member of ihe ing Fathers were Masons . . . A In American Freemasonry third of our presidents have been tion, has contributed over the ^^^^^^•-^^^^ preme Council of Ihe years more than $100,000 to Bay- Order nf DeMotay, he is also a Past Grand active Masons including George C. Fred Kleinknecht, 33° Commander of lite Grand Commandery of Ken- Washington, Theodore Roosev- lor's J.M. Dawson Chair of Sepa- the May Scottish Rite Jour- lucky. Kniglils Templar. He has served churclies Grand Commander Southern elt, Harry Truman, and Gerald ration of Church and State" (68). nal. The editor says: "After care- as nrganisUchoir director and was Ilie Dean of Jurisdiction, writes in the May Ford" (52). fully studying the contemporary Sludeni Affairsl,Registrar at llopkinsville Com- Thomas S. Roy 1993 Scottish Rite Journal: anti-Masonic movement, a well- munity CoUege "Masons believe in the father- was pastor of vari- 'This is a historic moment in known Freemason who is also a hood of God, the brotherhood of ous Baptist churches Must Believe in a in Brockton and American Freemasonry. We are Disciples of Christ Minister sees man, and in the immortality of Supreme Being Worcester. Massa- confronted by a virulent attack three main motives—personal, William G. HInton, 33° Grand the soul. What each shall be- chusetts, for more on our gentle Craft from a fac- than 40 years and political, and economic—behind Master of Masons in Kentucky, lieve, let each determine for tion within the Southern Baptist attacks on the Craft, and he himself Inerrantists have great was Grand Master of 1991-92, who has serVed Ihe Grand Lodge of Convention. 'This June, the advises Masons to respond by churches as organist/choir direc- difficulty with this level of free- Masons in Massachu- Convention will vote on the issue understanding and practicing the tor, writes: "In regard to religion, dom for the Individual; they want setts in 1951-53. of whether or not Freemasonry purposes of our Craft"(7) one should know that upon the everyone to believe exactly as is compatible 'with Christianity they believe and will not accept The Disciples of Christ cler- worldwide altars of Masonic and Southern Baptist doctrine,'" gyman writes: 'The recent re- Lodges may be found the holy any variance. This same philoso- (3, See "Closing Ranks: The Buck phy is what brought zealous SCOTTISH RITE JOURNAL, vival, by fundamental Christi- writings of at least five major February, 1983 Stops Here" reprinted below from anity, of anti-Masonry has cre- religions: Judaism, Christianity, churchmen to carry out outra- the Scottish Rite Journal). geous and horrible tortures in ated a storm within both reli- Islam, Buddhism, and Confu- Rev. Thomas Sherrard Roy, Forrest D. Haggard, 33° G.C. the name of religion in the Middle gious and fraternal circles. Over cianism. For the sake of being 33°, is the author of "An Answer is the author of "FreemasonIy Ages in an effort to save a per- the past two years, I have lis- able to obligate him. Freema- to Anti-Masonic Rehgious Propa- and Religion Are Compatible" in Continued on Page 8 Seymour Atlas re- Forrest D. Haggard "But essentially. Freema- where does Masonry say What is THE CHRISTIAN NEWS >«j.t ordained by the tired in 1990 from Kansas Church of Beth Judah Temple. sonry is happy to let anyone sufficient. That is the business of May 24, 1993 Page 8 Christ and is the Wildwood. NJ. after define religion for himself as he a church, not a fraternity. The Founding Pastor of 46 years in active wishes. We only start arguing Mason finds that answer in his Alvin C. Rose Ihe Overland Park Rabbinate as a Pul- « a supervisor of sec- when someone Works out a defi- faith, not in his Lodge. And that's Kansas Christian pit Rabbi in Missis- ondary education Church (Disciplesof sippi. Alabama. Ten- nition of religion, and then tries what we encourage him to do. (grades 7-12) for the Christ} where he has nessee. Arkansas, to force that definition on us as a We point him to the Holy Bible public schools of served since lUlSS. and New Jersey as Way of attacking us. (not the Masonic Monitor or his Cheatham County, He has been in the well as an Auxiliary Tennessee. He is a ministry for 44 years Chaplain in the U.S. apron) and encourage him to member of Ihe Scottish and a Master Mason Air Force and Coast "Ankerberg argues that Ma- search therein for the founda- Rite Bodies of Nash- for 43 years. A Past Guard. He is a mem- sonry defines What God is like tion on which to build his life. ville, TN, and Al Grand Master of ber of Ihe Scottish and, in the process, defines away Menah Shrine Temple Masons in Kansas, "Also, Ankerberg misses the Rite Bodies and the Shrine of Montgomery. many qualities that various re- cfNashvilU. he is presently Interim General Secretary of Alabama. He was inducted into the Legion point. The apron symbolizes or the World Office of the Churches of Christ of Honor of the Chapel of Four Chaplains in ligions hold dear. To prove this, represents purity and rectitude (Disciples. Christian, and Church of Christ). Philadelphia. PA. he quotes Coil's Masonic Ency- of conduct, but from whence do masonry would have any sym- clopedia. Doing so proVes what they come and how are they de- bols at all" (16). Historic l\/loment Disciples of Christ has been dis- Coil had to say, hut it does not fined? For me and most Chris- Dr. AlVin C. Rose, 32°, a cussing merger With the United proVe what Masonry has to say. tian Masons, they come from the In American Church of Christ, a liberal de- These do seem to be hard points member of the Churches of acceptance of Jesus Christ. My Christ, writes in "Why I Became nomination which has adopted a to get across to anti-Masons, but Jewish Brothers tell me that, for Freemasonry non-Trinitarian Statement of let's try once more. a Mason," "I once belieVed eVeiy- Continued from Page 1 them, they come from following one else Was necessarily lost and Faith (See sections on the United "I. No Masonic vvriter can or the Law of the Covenant. A tened to, watched on TV or read Would neVer haVe eternal life Church of Christ and Disciples of does speak for Masonry; he Brother who is a follower of Is- eVery program, article and item With God" (20). Christ in the Christian News speaks only for himself. lam tells me that, for him, they concerning the modern-day anti- "Many years ago, I discoVered Encyclopedia). "II. Each Mason conceiVes of come from submission to the will MasoIIic moVement that has ljeen that many of my religious felloW- Rabbi Proud to Be Mason God as his own religion leads called to my attention"(7). of Allah. And that's exactly why ship, the Churches of Christ, "I am Proud to Be a Mason" is him. Masonry does not define them. "In spite of all of the reVela- Were Masons. I haVe alWays the title of an article in the Scot- "Ankerberg insists that it is tions of graft, greed, corruption, Purity and rectitude are defined considered members of the tish Rite Journal by Rabbi Sey- semantic slight of hand if the and immorality on the part of the by faith, not fraternity" (14,15). Churches of Christ to be Chris- mour Atlas 33°. Rabbi Atlas candidate and the Mason confer- hawkers of fundamentalist Rex R. Hutchens 33° and Rev. tians, and I wondered how men Writes: "I Worked With men of ring the Degree haVe different Christianity, their kind contin- Donald W, Monson, 32°, Rector Who claimed to be Christians different religions, as well as of definitions of God. But that's tol- ues. They are an embarrassment of St. Michael and All Angels' could also be Freemasons" (20). the HebreW faith, and they Were eration, not slight of hand. In to the Church"(8). Episcopal Church, Phoenix, Ari- all impressed when I Would say fact, giVen a fundamental prin- "As I continued to study What "I haVe neVer argued With zona, and General Grand Chap- that Masonry is not a religion, ciple of General Semantics—that Were aVail- single-minded fundamentalists. lain ofthe General Grand Coun- Masonic materials but to be a Mason We haVe to each person has his own defini- able to me, I found nothing in They are alWays, ALWAYS, in cil of Cryptic Masons Interna- beheVe in God, and if this Was tion for EVERY word—it is ines- their OWn mind, absolutely right" tional and the Junior Grand MasonIy that was anti-Chris- the only aspect of our religion, capable. (8). Steward of the Grand Lodge of tian, nor anti any other religion yet We adhered to all the moral "And then, Ankerberg again .Arizona, are the authors of for that matter," (20). "Masonry The Disciples of Christ—No teachings of Masonry; this Would asserts that Masonry teaches "Signs, Symbols and Silliness." in no way replaces or opposes my Binding Doctrine haVe put us in the category of salVation by good works and that The article begins: "Anti-Masons Christian faith. It does, howeVer, The Disciples of Christ does men of integrity. HoweVer, Ma- the apron is the proof Since We who accuse Freemasonry of us- allow my faith to work With not haVe any binding doctrinal sonry is not a substitute for reli- Speak of'purity of life and recti- ing pagan 'Satanic' symbols fail people and in situations that standard. It allows its clergymen gion, nor is it a religion" (11,12). tude of conduct,' he concludes to realize that a symbol has only Would not otherwise be possible to deny such doctrines as the Response to Ankerberg that we teach such purity and the meaning attributed to it by for me" (21). Virgin birth, resurrection and Jim Tresner, 33°, in "Riding rectitude are sufficient to gain its user of the moment—not the President Jimmy Carter deity of Jesus Christ. It supports The Semantic Merry-Go- admission into Heaven. meaning given it in other times abortion and permits homosexu- "Former President Supports Round—A Response to Mr. John "Masonic Ritual does not say by other persons. If this were not Moderate Southern Baptists" in als to serVe as clergymen. The Ankerberg," writes: that these are sufficient. No- so, neither Christianity nor Free- Continued on Page 9

THE SCOTTISH RTTE JOURNAL, May, 1993 CLOSING RANKS: THE BUCK STOPS HERE O-OSING RANKS: THE BUCK STOPS HERE

CLOSING RANKS: Our unprecedented unity of response lo the crisis facing Freenuisonry individual lives and the Ufc of our Fraternity arc open-wide open-for all to represents a historic closing of Masonic ranks. I invite alt Masons of all see. our actions are the voice of Freemasonry. Blue Lodges and of all AppenttanI Bodies lo Join the Scottish Kile, Soulhern THE BUCK STOPS HERE u/kf Northern Masonic Jurisdictions, in opposing ihe religious extremism •:• There are Uiousands of yoimg peopie who lieve been educated with which loday ihrealens not only Freemasonry but the most fundamental of Masonic schoiarships. The Grand Commanders Franldy Speal^ing American principles, freedom of conscience. Read Grand Commander Paul's There are counUess viciinis of severe bunis who have lieen cared for message which follows, as well as the following pages of this special issue of without charge in Uie Shriners' bums inslinites. to find out how you, personally, can help defeiui Tiic Scollisii Rile Juuniai. • Tlierc are Uiousands of chiidren who live healUiy, happy, and whole Freeniusotuy and Arrurica today. l lliS is a historic moment in American Free- lives Uianks to Uie free medical care they received at one of Uie masonry. We are confronted by a virulent attack Masoriically-sponsored crippled children's hospitals. on «ur gentle Cr<^ from a faction wilhin the Sourti- •J- There is an almost endless stream of yoimgsters across die countiy ern Baptist Convention. This June, the Conven- wiio Iiave ieamed lo communicaie because of the services of ihe tion will vote on the issue of whether or not Free- Saverfign Grand Commander Scottish Jtiie's Chiidhood Language Disorder C:emers. masonry- is compatible "with Christianity and Soulhern Juriidiclion There are major improvements in ihe u^mient of schizophrenia, thanks Soulhern Baptist doctrine." to Uie medical studies and research funded by Scottish Rite Masons. In Ihe February 1993 issue of The Scottish RUe Tlierc are Uiousands of Amerieaiis who, without charge, have had Uieir Journal, the Scottish Rite. Southern Jurisdiction, He was a Bapfisi. He wiis a Mason. He was Ihe broke Masonry's tradition of silence. We re- I^esideni of die Uuiicd Stales. And iie was proud of sight restored or Uieir vision improved, again wiUiout cost, because of C. Fred Kieinknecht, 33° sponded to our critics via 25 articles. Most were ail iiucc. ttie conuiiitment of Masons. Grand Commander written bv prominent clergymen, many of ihem His biograpiier, David McC:uiiough. wriics of Our Masonic BroUier. Harry Triiman, was righL "There is more in acting Southern Jurisdiction Southern Baptists. Each stated clearly and Harry Truiiian's higli regard for Masonry: Uian in talidng." From where we stand, tliis is where Uie bucit always stops- strongly one truth: Freemasonry is not a re- He greatly enjoyed the fellowship antl look before men and God. ligion, let alone anti-Christian in any way. In- Ihe ritual and spiritual teaching of Freema- As Masons, we wiii not be drawn into a hatefui verbal batUe over iheologi- stead. Freemasonry complements Christian faith In 1990. the Scottish cal or doctrinal issues. A shouting match is not our foriim; trading acciisahoiis while it enliances each Mason's personal reli- sonry wilh extreme seriousness. He fell up- Rile Foundation of is not our style. gion, whichever it may be. lifted by brolherhood in an order claiming Missouri donated Ihe great antiquity and lo which both Mozarl and we will not hide, however. We will continue acting as Masons, we wiU This May issue, again, presents essays on this original oil portrait of Andrew Jackson hiul belonged, as had so many foiiow Uie lighi of faiUi. broUierhood and miUi. we will support the famiiy. crucial matter. As Masons, we must iitform the Francis G. Paul, 33° President Harry S. presidents, inciuding Theodore Roosevelt aiui we will honor our naUon. we will build character, we will care for Uie public and our own members. Most of all. we must Truman. pictured Grand Commander his successor, William Howard Tuft. As every forgotten and Uie needy. stand united. on the front cover of Northern Masonk: Mason krufw, George Washington look the we stand on ttie Masonic record, and leave Uie fmal judgment of Uieologi- It is wilh great pride, therefore, that this Grand this issue. It was Ihe Jurisdiction oath of office on a Masonic Bible and laid the cal purity where it belongs-in the hands of God. Commander's message breaks new ground by pre- first portrait installed cornerstone of the Capitol wilh a Masonic senting not only my message but also thai of III.: in Ihe House of the Trowel. (I'ruman. p. 78) Temple's new Temple Francis G. Paul, 33°. Sovereign Grand Commander Architects Hall of ofthe Northern Masonic Jurisdiction. III.: Paul's When ii caine io acccpling personai rcsponsihii- Honor. message is reprinted on the foiiowing pages wilh iiy for his aclions, no one in pubiic iife can equai 33' permission from the February 1993 issue of The i^esidciu Truman. On one niomenlous occasion, iie UonhemLigU. the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction's Sovereign Grand Commander niade an unpopuiar decision, "lire buci: slops iierc." official publication. —> Northern Masonic Jurisdiction iie said. And it did.

MAY 19B3 3 THE SCOTTISH RITE .lOUHNAL THE SCOTTISH RITE JOURNAL eni Baptist CtonvenUon." A iifc-iong C. FRED KLEINKNECHI SouUiem BapUst. Carter added, "we will share our persona] gifts, time and A Letter From influence wiUi CBF." while remain- Why is Bro.-. Harry Tninian more adinired lotlay Uian when he occupicd ing "loyal Baptists." Uie wliiic House'.' il's clear dial lie possesseii die one qualify dial makes a ln addition. President Carter rc- Jesse Helms difi'ereiice in iife; Hairy Tmniun had character. cenUy sent a letter to his pastor at il's difilcuil not io Uiink oi iiarry 1 Yuman-4iie niaii. Uie Bapiisl, Uie Pfcsi- MaranaUia Baptist Church in Plains. denl and die Masoii-iil a linie wiien our ftaieniiiy iias come under severe Georgia. The editor oCBaptists Today, crilieism from a vociferous group of Souitlcni Bapiisls wlio have dedicated have reached Uie firm conclusion. Jack U . Harwell, quoted from die let- iioUi as a SouUiem Baptist and as Uieniseives lo cieansing Uieir deiioniinalion of what Uiey consider coiuamiiia- ter where the former President says I Uon by Masons and Frecinasoiiry. a Thirty-Uiird Degree Scottish Rile "the political and religious pohcies of Mason, that fiir too much has been souUiern Baptist Convention leaders made of Uie wrong-headed, albeit sin- are no longer compatible with our |Uic cere, obsession of a Texas Bapus; Uiat C:aner'sl Christian beliefs...." prompted him to launch a false and "The buck stops here." Right here. ln a related mauer. former Ihesidenl uiifair vendetu against frcemasoniy. Jimmy Cartar And i t stops now. In the past, We have Carter has played a behind-Uw-scenes 1 do not know Dr. James L. Holly. role in gainhig support for Uic C B F . M.D.. of Beaimionl, Texas. It is not 'Hurned the other cheek" and kept silent FOrmer President Keitti I"arks, former presidem of Uie my purpose to attack eiUier his char- SouUiem Baptist Foreign Mission Board, Senator Jasae Halms. 33" When We have been criticized. No longer. acter or iiis intelligence, indeed, l give SuppOrts MOderate joined Uie CBF on Febmao' l . l993. him Uie lienefil of Uie doubc 1 ac- Scliool teacher. 1 have been a Mason Paiks admitted dial Carter had talked lo knowledge diat he is probably sincere for 45 yean. 1 note Uiat Dr, Holly has SOuthem Baptists him "before 1 made the decision |lo join in his vendetta. bieen described as a "conscrvaUve." J wlicn die issue first arose, i iooii Uie criUcisin soiiiewhai iu shide. Since Uie CompUed from Tlie Wastiinglon Foil.Uie CBF) and let me know of his iatcr- Al the same lime. I would advise too have been so described. anii^Masoiiic inoveniciil i5<) years ago. diere iiave been numerous allcmpls lo JuiouyM. t993.pM« AiJ esL" C:arler did not influence his deci- him. and those who may have accepted Many hoUieaded "liberals" have siKiw dull Ma.sonry is die eiiciny of auistiaiiity. Wiiiie Uiese lierioiiic out- sion, but "Uie fact of his interest cer- his linfortimaIe views. Uiat Dr. Holly gone balhsUc since Uieir having lieen bursts have been unplca.sani, Uiey have soon faded away. Former President Jimmy Clatter an- tainly was encouraging to mc." is sincerely wrong. deposed from their longtime conuxil Unforlunaieiy, die cuneiit anli-Masoiiic movement in Uie SouUiem Baptist nounced at Uic end of January Uiat he According to Bill Leonard, chair- The SouUiem BapUst CiinvenUon of Uie SouUiem BapUst C^onvenUon. Onveiilioii persists, even gaining moiiieiiluin. will leave Uie SouUiem BapUst Con- man of Uie religion department al is not led by foolish men and women 1t would be unfortunate if Dr. Holly The conipiaiiits against Masoiiry are noi coming from Uie SouUiem BapUsls ventioo. During an interview wiUi Saniford University in Biniiingham. who would allow Uiemselves to be allows himself to be used by Uiese as a wiiole. It scciiis to be one nians goal to vilify Freciiiasoiuy, and. al Uie Baptists Today, a biweekly newspa- Carter and Paries "have enhanced Uie uiggod over the cliff by Uiis unfounded angry people, resulung in great harm saiiie linie. to drive a wedge of hate into Uie licarl of diis great deiioiniiiatioii. per in Decatur. Georgia. Carter said ftiture and credibility" of Uie CBF. and unfair vendeua. Most of SBC's to Uie SouUiem BapUst (iinvenUon. he wiU join Uie more moderate Coop- "Tlie buclt Slops iicre." Right iicre. And it slops now. in die past, we iiave Ixonard. who wrote a recent history leaders are friends of mine. More- My advice to Uie 1993 SB C Con- erative BapUst FeUowship (CBF). hi "turned Uie oUier ciieei:" and kept silent wiicn criticized. No longer. of Uie SouUiem Baptist Conventioo. over, Uie fact Uiat Dr. Holly's moUon venUon. for whatever it is worth, is his announcement Carter said. AiUiough Uic perpcuaior of die scuriilous mid lotaily ciroiieous attack on added Uie denomination has tiegim to at Uie 1992 S B C Convenuon asking Uiat Uie Messengers give Dr. Holly's "Rosalyim and I have become increas- our Masonic Frateniily feeis he is on die side of Qiristianity and dial Freema- break apart interaaiiy. "What I have Uiat a "study" be made of Freema- ingly uncomfortable wiUi Uie policies moUon a quick and quiei demise. The sonry is Uie wortc of Uie devii, we lake our stand wiUi Uie nian from Missouri called in the past 'fragmentation' is sonry was at best rouUne-and Uie 1993 of tiie dominant clique in Uie South- SouUiem Bapust Convenuon has far wiio said. Uie order of Uie day." he said. A Convenuon is supposed to receive a Editor's not*: Many b9li»ve the Southern Baptist Convention's growing disinte- more important things to do. "/ am by religion tike everything else. I think there is more in acting gration Is ti«d to Its recant pursuit of uhra-nght goals, inciuding Its attack on routine report on dial "study." Sincerely :md fratemally. lhan in talking." Freemasonry as incompatible with Southern Baptist doctrine. Ttiis May Issue, like 1 have been a SouUiem BapUst since the Fabmary, 1993. issue olThe Sconlsh Rile Journal, examines this subject and my childhood. I have served two Bap- This is exacliy where die buck stops for Freemasons, w e do not talk confirms the compallbtltly ol Freemasonry and Christianity. Ust (::hurches as deacon and Sunday theoiogy because we are not a reiigious orgaiii/aiioii or a ciiurch. But oiu-

\ MAY 1993 5 22 THE SCOTTISH RITE JOURNAL MAY 1993 25 Donald W. Monson THE CHRISTIAN NEWS is Rector of St. May 24, 1993 Page 9 Michael and All Angels' Episcopal Freemasonry and Church, Phoenix, Arizona. He is Home Mission Board Returns also the General Religion Are Grand Chaplain of the General Compatible Positive Report on Freemasonry Grand Council of Cryptic Masons International and the Junior Grand The following quotations highlight the positive statements in the Home Steward of the Forrest D. Haggard, 33°, G.-.C.-. Mission Board's report on whether FreemasonIy is compatible with Christianity Grand Lodge of Arizona. Reverend Monson is, along 6376 IV. 78th Terrace and Southern Baptist docHine. Also, please see A Masonic Response to the with Dr. Rex R. Hulchens, the coau- Shawnee Mission, KS 66204 Report on Freemasonry by the Home Mission Board, SBC, by T. Max Tatum, thor of the new book The Bible in 32°, K..C.-.C..H.-., and Jim Tresner, 33°, on page 46 of this issue for more Albert Pike's lVlorals and Dogma. information op the report. the National Grand Lodge of Nor- J. C. Montgomery, Jr. way explains that Masonic mem- is a retired pastor and Historic l\1oment bership by the clergy ofthe Nor- district superintertderu "We commend the Masonic Order for its many charitable endeavors ...." In American wegian Church is not at Variance in Ihe United Methodist with ordination Vows. On the con- Chttrchas wellasapast "We acknowledge that many outstanding Christians and Southern Baptists member of various now are, and in the past have l)een Masons, including such notable past Freemasonry trary, many clergymen haVe Methodist national Southern Baptist leaders as B. H . C:anDl, George W. Truett, L. R. Scarborough, found in Freemasonry the 'inspi- boards. Heisalsoa Past Continued from Page 8 W. T. Connor, L-ouie D. Newton, and J. B. Lawrence." ration to renew their efforts in Grand Master of Mis- the May 1993 Scottish Rite Jour- the serVice of the Church,'" (30). souri and Ihe editor of The Mi ssouTi Freemason "We recognize that many of the tenets and teachings (of Freemasonry]... nal was complied from the Janu- Ottersen writes: "It is Free- ary 28,1993 Wasliington Post. and The Royal Arch coiIld be considered compatible with, and... supportive of, Cluistian faith and masonry's express aim NOT to Mason Magazine. practice, such as the strong emphasis on honesty, integrity, industry, and The article says: "Former Presi- compete with the Church any dent Jimmy Carter announced character and the insistence that every member lielieve in God." Church. The NGLN is not a creed; FreemasonIy is not worth the at the end of January that he Will it is a fraternity," (31). "In light of leave the Southern Baptist Con- 'fight.' Your loyalty to Freema- "We recognize . . . explicit references to Cliristian faith, including exact the above, we clergy in the Na- sonry is the best witness there is quotes from the Bible, such as in the ritual constituting a new Lodge in the vention. During an intervieW tional Grand Lodge of Norway With Baptists Today, a bi- for our Fraternity" (40). Monitor of the Lodge ofthe Grand Lodge of Texas." see no conflict between our work ReV. Dr. W. Kenneth Lyons, Weekly newspaper in Decatur, within the Church and within Georgia, Carter says he will join Jr., 33°, a United Methodist cler- "We recognize .. . the explicit reference lo Jesus in the Masonic Code of FreemasonIy. We wish to con- gyman, says that "I haVe found the Grand Ixidge of Alabama." the more moderate CooperatiVe tinue our labors along these hnes, Baptist Fellowship (CBF)." Car- that the Scottish Rite and the which is why we regard it as an Symbolic Lodge espouse the be- "We recognize .. . the strong affirmation of the Bible fotmd in the North ter prayed with Jews and Mus- asset for parish priests all over lims. He said his four faVorite lief of no one religion, but are Carolina Lodge Manual." the country to be initiated in the respectors of all major moral theologians were Paul Tillich, Masonic Order" (32). Karl Barth, Reinhold Niebuhr religions ofthe world" (42). "ln summary, . . . we therefore recommend that consistent with our and Soren Kierkegard. .All four Elder Clifford Ward, 33°, an "As a Christian minister, I be- denomination's deep convictions . . . membership in a Masonic Order lie a SBC clergyman, says that "Free- rejected historic Christianity. lieVe that Jesus is the Son ofGod. matter of personal conscience." • (Christian NeVvs Encyclope- masonry has never in any way I also belieVe that any Lodge THE SCOTnSH RFTE JOURNAL, May, 1993 dia, pp. 325-331). interfered with my work in the prohibiting me from holding that ministry" (34). The Scottish Rite Journal belief or berating me for being a How To Assure Success At The SBC reprints "Calling Masons Satanic Christian is not a Lodge of'Broth- Is Folly" from the Hotiston Post. ReV. Aschley Paul Reece, Sr., ers' but a stronghold of bigotry. On March 17. l993. the Home Mission Board of the SBC submitted its The articles says that "Holly tries 32°, pastor of the Kenwood The same behef, howeVer, should "Response to the Report on Freemasonry" saying, "we therefore recommend to argue Masonry is a religion. Heights Christian Church, Lou- hold true in a Lodge of'Brothers' tliat consistent with our denomination's deep conviction regarding the priest- The ReV. Norman Vincent Peale, isVille, Kentucky, writes: "I haVe for a Jewish Mason" (43). hcxxJ of the believer and the autonomy of the local church, membersliip in the himself a Mason, says no Way" been a minister for 59 years and Dr. Don Ford, pastor of Cen- Masonic Order be a matter of personal conscience." (24). a Mason for 52." "I do not feel tral Baptist Church, North Little The issue of the Home Mission Board condemning Freemasonry as incom- patible "with Cliristianity and Soudiem Baptist doctrine" is over. At the same "'Freemasonry has no dogma that I have been wrong in being Rock, Arkansas, says in "About a Masnri" (34). The Cotttroversy In The SBC." time, the tlireat of anti-Masonic forces overturning the Home Mission Board's or theology,' he says. 'It teaches report at the Convention itself is very real. Therefore, the Scottish Rite urges that it is important for eVery Charles C. Johnson, 32° ofthe "Masons of our congregation Gano Avenue Baptist Church, should not feel any attack on every Freemason to write a brief letter to the two main ieaders ofthe Southern man to have a religion of his Bapdst Convention urging support of the Home Mission Board Report. choice and to be faithful to it...'" Georgetown, Kentucky, writes: them because of the actions of Mason Jesse Helms "I am writing as a Mason and a the national level." Dr. Ed Young, President Dr. Morris (Thapman Critical of Holly Southern Baptist concerned SBC Convention Southern Baptist Convention Executive Committee about the charges against Free- 6400 Woodway 901 Commerce Su«et. Suite 750 "A Letter From Jesse Helms" Messengers masonry made by Dr. James Support Masons Houston, TX 77057 Nashville. TN 37203 in the Scottish Rite Journal Larry Holly. says: "I have reached the firm In "How to Assure Success at Also, if you are a Southern BaplisL consider counseling wiih your iocai conclusion, both as a Southern "I am a better man and a bet- the SBC" the Scottish Rite church leaders and becoming a messenger to the Houston Convention. There Baptist and as a Thirty-third ter Christian through the bond Journal urges that convention you can support Freemasoruy by voting to approve the Home Mission Board Degree Scottish Rite Mason, that of fellowship that I have experi- delegates support Freemasonry report. For how to do tliIs. see pages 59-60 of this issue. enced through the teachings of far too much has been made of by voting to approve the SBC THE SCOTTISH RITE JOURNAL. May, 1993 the wrong-headed, albeit sincere, Freemasonry" (35). Home Mission Board report. "On obsession of a Texas Baptist that Don L.avender March 17, 1993, the Home Mis- prompted him to launch a false IJ a former Secretary sion Board of the SBC submitted "While I disagree strongly with several points critical of Freemasonry in the and unfair vendetta against Free- Registrar (1974-79) its 'Response to the Report on Board's report, l compliment the Home Mission Board for its intent to report of Ihe Des Moines, masonry." "I have been a South- Iowa Scottish Rite Freemasonry' saying 'we there- even-handedly on Freemasonry. Most of all. l commend the Board on its ern Baptist since my childhood, I Bodies. He is retired fore recommend that consistent conclusion that membership of Southern Baptists in Freemasonry remain have served two Baptist from the City of Des with our denomination's deep what it has always been, a malter of personal conscience and decision." Moines Engineering conviction regarding the priest- Churches as deacon and Sunday Department, and C. Fred Kleinknecht, 33°, Sovereign Grand Commander School teacher. I have been a enjoys hobbies of instrument music and hood of the believer and the au- Response to the Home Mission Board Report on Freemasonry Mason for 45 years. I note that photography. tonomy of the local church, mem- Dr. Holly has been described as a bership in the Masonic Order be 'conservative.' I too have been so Good in All Religions a matter of personal conscience." THE SCOTTISH RITE JOURNAL. May, 1993 described" (25). Don Lavender, 32° writes in "Judgments About Masonry:" (45). Dewey C. Cnitchndd is not a religion and does not "My advice to the 1993 SBC The fact that Masonry does not The Scottish Rite Journal is Secretary of the Scot- teach any religious doctrines. The Convention, for whatever it is limit its understanding of a Su- is urging Southern Baptists, who tish Rite Valley of Ra- salvation of the soul is an indi- leigh . Past Master of J. worth, is that the Messengers preme Being to the Christian are masons to become messen- vidual responsibility and must give Dr. Holly's motion a quick J. Crowder Lodge No. interpretation and that it is will- gers (delegates) to the 1993 SBC 743. and Wm. G. Hill be left to each person. and quiet demise. The Southern ing to accept Brethren form all ConVention and to Vote. Fred W. Lodge No. 21S of Ra- "We of the Masonic Order who Baptist Convention has far more faiths does not coincide with McPeake, 33°' says: "If you are a leigh, NC. He is a mem- are Christians know that you do Important things to do" (25). those who cannot tolerate beliefs Mason and a Baptist, your pres- ber of the Raleigh York not receive salvation through other than those of their particu- ence at the Southern Baptist Con- Rile Bodies and Poten- good works" (5l). Vention in Houston, Texas, on tate of Amran Shrine lar church. Temple. Bigotry to Say "It is good and proper that June 15-17 is urgently needed. One Has the Truth people should be devoted to their The following steps outline how John E. Canoose, 32° in "A accepted religion. To assume, to become a messenger and vote. tence in the Southern Baptist Christian Mason Looks at Ma- however, that there is no good in Only you can prevent an extrem- denomination that each person sonry and Religions," writes: any other religion or organiza- ist faction from taking over the must decide issues of faith for "One of the landmarks of Free- tion, even though it may pro- Convention and obtaining a vote him/herself. In reaffirming that masonry is that no atheist can mote similar moral truths in a to condemn Freemasonry as in- tradition, the Home Mission become a Mason. A belief in a difierent way, is a source of dis- compatible 'with Christian and Board continues the rejection of Supreme Being is central to all of trust. It is the same understand- Southern Baptist doctrine'" (59). the narrow radicalism which has Masonry. Beyond that there is ing that has led to religious wars "Fellow/Masons/Messengers, characterized the fanatic from no religious test for candidates." the earliest history in Europe to throughout history and even to- meet me in the Astrodome June "Does the person satisfied day promotes hatred and violence 15, 1993! The fate of Freema- modern Iran" (46). "... we again congratulate the Home Mission with a ritual form of religion and in some countries. sonry today depends on you!" (60). worship have the right to deny 'There is no shame in the fact T. Max Tatum, 32° Grand Board on upholding the intellec- tual integrity ofthe SBC" (48). another the right to Invoke his that Masonry recognizes the good Master of Masons of the State of logic to obtain a belief satisfying in diverse religions throughout Oklahoma, and Jim Tresnor in Masonry Compatible With his doubts? No. To say that one the world, nor does our Craft "A Masonic Response to the All Religions has the truth, all of the truth, take anything away from the Report on Freemasonry by the The editor explains "Point- and the One Truth, and that Lelf Ottersen has been Rector and. since 1972, Christian who may be a member. Home Mission Board, SBC," Counterpoint" on pages 50-5 l : those who differ are wrong is by Dean of Oslo Cathedral, becoming Very Rever-There will never be a single reli- write: 'The Freemasons of Okla- 'The following article consists of definition bigotry" (55). end Dean in 19SS. He was ordained in the homa congratulate the Home Norwegian Church in 1959, raised a Mason ingion acceptable to aU in the world, two letters, one from a demitting "Truly Tolerant Of Jews," an I960, and has served as Grand Prelate (NGLN) but the fact that the many di- Mission Board on the conclusion Brother in North Carohna and a item by Justin F. Krasnoff, 32°, since 1979. The King of Norway has honoredverse religions teach brotherly reached in their report on Free- response to him from illustrious says: "My father was a cynical him with Ihe St. Olav's Medal and the Olav Vs masonry: ' . . we therefore rec- Memory Medal. love, a faith in their God, and the Dewey C. Crutchfield, Jr., 33°, man who believe that the only need for charity to others is a ommend that consistent with our Secretary of the Valley of Raleigh, predominantly Christian organi- Mason in Church of steadying influence wherever it denomination's deep conviction Orient of North Carolina. It clari- zation that was truly tolerant of Norway may be" (39). regarding the priesthood of the fies the position of one well- Jews and gave us a fair chance Leif Otterson, Grand Prelate Rev. J.C. Montgomery, Jr., a believer and the autonomy ofthe versed Christian Mason vis-a- was Freemasonry. Dad never of The National Grand Lodge of Methodist clergyman and a Pas- local church, memhership in a vis extreme religious fundamen- joined the Craft, but he passed Norway, is the author of "The tor Grand Master of Missouri Masonic Order be a matter of talism and restates the basic Ma- bis feelings about Masonry on to National Grand Lodge of Nor- and the editor of the Missouri personal conscience.' sonic principle that FreemasonIy me, and I did join. In fact, I am way and the Norwegian Church." Freemason, says that "A Ma- 'That conclusion is, indeed, in is compatible with all religions, tbe immediate Past Master of The editor comments: "The son who 'quits' or is lapsed is accordance with the traditional including Christianity" (50). Ann Arbor-Fraternity No. 262, Grand Prelate, a clergyman, of seen by others as admitting that and highly commendable insis- Crutchfield says that "Masonry Continued on Page 10 THE CHRISTIAN NEWS May 24, 1993 Page 10

cited in your letter is one of your denomination, I can't Wiiere Do They Stand? say that I disagree with i t but I do not have any creed other than abovementioned.

Christian News Sends Questionnaire to the I believe in the Holy Bible, I study i t and have a fair knowledge of its teachings.

Contributors to the February, 1993 I only wish the established Church believed in the teachings of the Holy Bible as much as 1 do. What I hear from many churches Scottish Rite Journal IS a religion to make you feel good that has no meaning and Christian News sent a questionnaire to almost all of the con- accomplishes nothing but riches for a few. tributors to the February, I993 Scottish Rite Journal. Most ofthe I have been a criminal judge for almost twenty-four years and have seen child abuse, spousal abuse, murder, rape, robbery, use of contributors, including Dr. Norman Vincent Peale, did not respond. drugs, pornography, the pandering of sex, al l of which my religion Dr. Peale rejects such historic Christian doctrines as the physical says is wrong but i t appears to me the Church of today is afraid to taJce a stand against these practices. "Pick up your cross, deny resurrction and vicarious satisfaction of Jesus Christ. He has long yourself and follow me" are strange words i n modern day repudiated historic Christianity. Peale claims that Jews and other Christianity. "Woe unto those that call evil good and good evil." non-Christians are worshipping the true God (See the Christian My question to you is this, why pick on the good in society News Encyclopedia, p. 694 and other citations listed in the index.) when so much sin exists such as the categories I set out above? Mr. Tom Eggleston, 33°, of the Christian (Disciples of Christ), one I hope th i s answers your questions and i f you desire any of the contributors to the Scottish Rite Journal, who did not further information on my faith, I will be glad to correspond further with you. I shall await your reply. answer the questionnaire, wrote: Dear Mr. Otten: very truly yours, ReV. Forrest D. Haggard, "As a Mason I will NOT be drawn into a hateful verbal battle over 33°, Freemasonry and ReU- theological issues. Shouting matches are NOT our forum: trading ^ames B._ Wilkinson gion are compatible. accusations are NOT our style. We will NOT hide however. We will continue ACTING as Masons. We will follow the light of faith, Pride in Masonry . A Commitment to Excellence brotherhood, and truth. We will support our family, we will honor, R. STEPHEN DOAN THE SCOTTISH RrTE JOURNAL, support and defend our Nation—We will build character—We will care for the forgotten and the needy. We will stand forever on our 64ll Seabryn Drive May, 1993 Rancho Paios verdes, C:aiifornia 90274 Masonic record, and leave the final judgement on theological purity Mr. Herman Otten, Editor where it FOREVER belongs—IN THE HANDS OF GOD." May 10, 1993 Historic l\/loment PS—I'm enclosing a copy of the brochure "Conscience and the Lutheran News, Inc. Route 1, Box 309A In American Craft" and concur with every word 100% I'll be anxiously awaiting to New Haven, Missouri 63068 read your "review" in the Chtdstian News, I have a friend Who Freemasonry shares his copies With me. Dear Mr. Otten:

Respectfully 1 received your April 23rd letter regarding my recent Ann .Arbor, Michigan" (56). Tom Eggleston-Master Mason—AND PROUD OF IT. article in the Scottish Rite Journal. Your letter asks me George W. Grossoehme, 32° several questions which you raise in consequence of your reading Writes: "In I995, With the Lord's that article. Of course, on matters of theology, on which approVaI, Questions For Contributors To The Christians have debated for centuries, simple "yes" or "no" I shall complete fifty answers are inadequate. years as a Master Mason. Be- February 1993 Scottish Rite Journal yond my lifelong practice of This correspondence is written by me in no official capacity. I sp e a k fo r no on e ot h e r th a n my s e l f . I f yo u di s a g r e e Christian faith, I am a recently with some of the views expressed on the subject of salvation, baptized Baptist, and I teach a then your disagreement would be with the Episcopal Church whose I tielieve that Jesus Christ is the only way to heaven and that all those^o die Sunday School class in the established teachings I paraphrase in this letter. Your without saving faith In Christ are lost forever in Hell. Yes No \ / disagreement would not be with the Masonic fraternity or Masons Temple Baptist Church of in general. Sparks, NeVada" (57). Anti-Masonic Lies 2. I believe that Christianity Is the only divinely revealed and true religion and thatnaty You ask whether I believe that Christ is the only way v/ t and whether Jews, Moslems and others Dr. S. Brent Morris, 33°, Book acknowledge Christ as savior will go to Hell. Your companion ReVieWs Editor for The Scot- question asks whether Christianity is the only true religion. I have no recollection of ever hearing these questions asked in an tish Rite Joumal, writes: I believe that a man is justified (saved) only through faith in Jesus Christ and not "From time to time religious and Episcopal Church. Also, I would not denigrate the religious at ail on the basis of any g o o d works. Yes N o - i X beliefs of others by commenting on their merit. But, I will governmental authorities have conraient on my own b eliefs. I believe that Christ promised to condemned Freemasonry and bring us into the Kingdom o f G o d an d g i v e u s life and al l its have taken steps to prevent men I agree vvith the Atheuiasian Creed when it says: "Whosoever will be saved, fullness i f we believe in Him and keep His commandments. Hi s under their influence from join- before ail things it is necessary that he hold the catholic (i.e. Christian) faith. commandments? That we love the Lord our God with a l l our hearts, Which faith except every one do keep whole and undefiled, without doubt he with all our souls and with a l l our minds. That we love our ing the Masonic Lodge. Among shall perish everlastingly. And the catholic (Chrishan) faith is ttiis, that we neighbors as ourselves. That we love one another as Christ loved ue. I do not believe that. I could ever hope for s a l v ation other many such examples one finds: worship one God in Trinity, and Trinity in Unity." Yes No (/ the Inquisitors into Heretical than by faith and by fulfilling our Lord's commandments. Deproavity, Adolph Hitler, You may question why I have no recollection of ever Benito Mussolini, Francisco hearing these questions asked in an Episcopal Church. It is Franca, and the Ayatollah Khom- Name Rabbi Sidney S. Gi,rthman, 3g° because of the nature of that church. The Episcopal Church is a eni. ReV. Ron Carlson of Eden positive church. It is not a negative church. It teaches why the Christian faith as interpreted by our church is right, not Prairie, Minnesota, is anxious to Address 5036 Atherton Street why other faiths are wrong. Why does the Episcopal Church so add his name to this hst" (61). Long Beach, California 90815 operate? It so operates because we are catholic. We are not "The Scottish Rite Journal catholic in the sense that we pay allegiance to the Bishop of does not ordina1-ily reView the Rome. We are catholic in the sense that we are universal, Denomination meaning that we tolerate great variances of opinion among those same book twice, but The Cloud who subscribe to the basic theology of our church. We tend to of Prejudice, By Bro. Arturo include rather than exclude people with whom we might disagree on Dehoyas, 32°, is not an ordinary interpretations of that theology. We are based both on the scriptures and the traditions of the church, traditions which book— it is a masterpiece. It pro- The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge date from after the Protestant Reformation as well as those which vides a almost line-by-line refu- date from before i t . Indeed, Episcopalians tend to be more OF A.NCIENT niEE AND ACCEPTED MASONS OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF VntGIlJl\ tation of an anti-Masonic ser- catholic than those Roman Catholics who still are vocally anti- mon distributed by ReV. Carlson JAMES BUNARO WIUIINSON Protestant, as we are more inclusive than they are. SRAsD SEslOa WIROEM May 3, 1993 through his Christian Ministries IIANCHESIER COUSTHOUSE You also asked whether salvation comes through faith lot*. I HULL STREET alone. I have outlined above the teachings of my church: Christ Intemationai." .After quoting a RICsMODD. VA 2121* statement Carlson attributes to promised to bring us into the Kingdom of God and give us life and all i t s f u l l n e s s i f we be l i e v e i n Hi m an d ke e p H i s c o m m a n d m e n t s . that Albert Pike, Dehoyas says Mr. Herman Otten, Editor Episcopalians believe in salvation by faith and by fulfilling our "Albert Pike says it is a sin to Lutheran News, Inc. Lord's commandments, p a r t i c u l a r l y Hi s law of love. Route 1, Box 309A divulge the truth." Dehoyas says New Haven, Missouri 63068 that "the truth is that Ron I suspect that the teachings and practices of the Dear Mr. Otten: Episcopal Church may seem foreign to you, and certainly this Carlson is not quoting Albert letter cannot explain them in great depth. I would recommend for Pike." He says that "Pike was Thank you for your letter of April 23, 1993 with enclosures. your reading Michael Ramsey, The Anglican Spirit, for a more detailed discussion of the catholic tradition in the Episcopal clearly quoting St. Ambrose on I am happy to answer your questions but being a Christian Church. T h e r e is al s o an o t h e r bo o k by Michael Ramsey which night worshipping in the Baptist Church, i t is rather difficult to answer what he taught regarding the them "yes" or "no". I will answer in the order in which your interest you. It is The Gospel and the Catholic Church. It Christian Mysteries. It was, we questions were presented. discusses the scriptural basis for the teachings of the Roman find, a Christian Father who said Catholic, Anglican (Episcopal) and Orthodox as well as Lutheran (11 I believe that Jesus Christ is the only way to heaven and other Protestant Churches. In particular, it discusses the it was a sin to tell the truth" (63). but I do not feel competent to administer Godly justice scriptural basis for the teachings of the Anglican Coiiununion on in judging other people as I ain a mere mortal. I might the subject of salvation, as suiiunarized in this letter. While ''He claims to be quoting Albert not understand how God might judge on the day of you probably would not agree with his or the Anglican Pike when he was in fact quoting judgment. Perhaps I am greatly influenced by the 7th chapter of Matthew and I only judge Luider Caesar's law. interpretation of Holy Scriptures, at least it should evidence St. Ambrose, a Christian Church I that reasonable people can agree to disagree on the subject. Father," (63). The type of slanted (2) I believe that Christianity is the only divine1y truth, half truth, or outright revealed and true religion but I cannot repudiate the old 1 hope that these comments answer your questions. Testament as I feel that was also penned by man through Thaiik you for writing me. untruth demonstrated in this one the wisdom of God. ^ .-7 passage is rampant throughout (3) I t^elieve a person is justified only through faith ^Vejy.^trij1y youi-s. Ron Carlson's work. .Also, such in Jesus Christ but there must be good works i f tiioe twisting of fact is typical of the permits. (Book of James) writings of other anti-Masonic (4) The only creed that I believe in is the Holy Bible R. 'STEPHEN DOAN ^ authors," (63). as I have been taught this ray entire life. If the creed Coy then attempted to get over 150,000 miles and spoken to Mason, and the top Masons in Is Modern Masonry Anti- some leading Masonic authority thousands of Masons and mil- Iowa and Missouri, who have to debate Morey. Top Masons lions of members of the public assured you that they will get Christian, Yes or No? had assured Coy that they would about the Craft. He has dis- someone to debate Dr. Robert Masons Back Out of find a spokeman to debate Morey cussed, debated, and gone head Morey, Dr. James Holly, and/or and C N . Dr. Herbert H. Rey- to head with anti-Masons in over Christian News. It is unfortu- Debate With Christian nolds, a Mason and President of 100 radio and television appear- nate that, as you say, John J. News and Morey the Southern Baptist Conven- ances" (p. 96). Robinson's health will not per- tion, related Baylor UniVersity Christian News wrote to Past mit him to participate in a de- Continued from Page I Dr. Robert A. Morey was one of those inVited to de- Worshipful Master Charles Coy bate. Morey. bate. John J. Robinson was also on March 23: HoweVer, Robinson, Who Christian News has published 69 and Hope Lodge No. 251, who inVited to paIlicipate in the de- March 23, 1993 appears to be a leading spokes- bate. The February, 1993 Scot- Mr. Charles G. Coy man Masons use to defend Ma- articles on Masonry ever since it is also a Methodist minister, took began in 1962. In recent months issue with Morey. Coy told Chris- tish Rite Joumal said in an Past Worshipful Master ofSulli- sonry and argue that Masonry is article promoting Robinson's compatible with Christianity, it has published numerous ar- tian NeWs that Masons are well van ticles on the turmoil within the aware of Morey's work and noW recently published A Pilgrim's Lodge 69 and Hope Lodge 251 may be able to participate in a Southern Baptist Convention intend to answer him. Path—One Man's Road to the Box 2025 written debate. The February, Masonic Temple. "With Free- over Freemasonry. After the No- Morey wrote (CN, December Washington, Missouri 63090 1993 The Scottish Rite Jour- masonry facing its most Vicious vember 16, 1992 Christian 7,p. 15):"IfCoyisreadytogo'put Dear Mr. Coy: nal says that "WITH FREE- attack in 100 years, A Pilgrim's News reviewed Dr. Robert his money where his mouth is,' I Thank you for your efforts to MASONRY facing its most Vi- Path is a must-read book (see p. Morey's The Origin and Teach- want to go on TV and debate him arrange a debate on FreemasonIy cious attack in 100 years, A Pil- -94) for every Freemason and his ings of Freemasonry, Mr. on whether or not modern Ma- and for contacting Baylor Presi- grim's Path is a must-read book family. For the last three years, Charles Coy, Past Worshipful sonry is anti-Christian. Is he dent Herbert Reynolds, a South- ... for eVery Freemason and his John J. Robinson has traveled Master ofthe Sullivan Lodge No. willing to debate me?" ern Baptist who is a 33rd degree Continued on Page 11 clopedia. I will be glad to send THE CHRISTIAN NEWS The Atbanasian Creed you these pages if you are at all May 24,1993 Page 11 interested in publishing a de- Whosoever will be saved, before all of the Son, neither made nor created nor bate on Masonry and whether or CHMSTIAN NEWS, March 1, 1993 things it is necessary that he hold the begotten, but proceeding. catholic [i.e., universal. Christian] faith. So there is one Father, not three not Christian pastors should he Which faith except everyone do keep Fathers; one Son. not three Sons; one allowed by their denominations Debate On whole and undefiled. without doubt he Holy Ghost, not three Holy Ghosts. shall perish everlastingly. to be Masons. And in this Trinity none is before or Freemasonry - Is It And the catholic faith is this, that after other: none is greater or less than Sincerely yours, we worship one God in Trinity and another; Trinity in Unity, Herman Otten Anti-Christian But the whole three Persons are co- cc. Mr. Charles Coy Neither confounding the Persons nor eternal together and coequal, so that in Masons are seeking a spokes- dividing the Substance. all things, as is aforesaid, the Unity in April 9, 1993 Trinity and the Trinity in Unity is to be man who is willing to debate Dr. For there is one Person of the Father, worshiped. Mr. John J. Robinson another of the Son, and another of the Robert Morey, the author of "The Holy Ghost. He. therefore, that will be saved must 1071 Celestial Street thus think of the Trinity. Origins and Teachings of Free- But the Godhead of the Father, of Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 the Son, and of the Holy Ghost is all one: Furthermore, it is necessary to ever- masonry" reviewed in the No- the glory equal, the majesty coeternal. lasting salvation that he also believe Dear Mr. Robinson: vember 16 Christian News. Mr. faithfully the incarnation of our Lord Such as the Father is. such is the Son, Enclosed are letters I have Jesus Christ. Charles Coy, Past Worshipful and such is the Holy Ghost. For the right faith is that we believe written to Grand Commander C. Master of the SulliVan Lodge No. The Father uncreate. the Son un- and confess that our Lord Jesus Christ, create, and the Holy Ghost uncreate. Fred Kleinknecht, editor of The 69 and Hope Lodge No. 251 re- the Son of God. is God and Man: The Father incomprehensible, the Scottish Rite Joui-nal, and Mr. sponded to Morey in the NoVem- God of the Substance of the Father, Son incomprehensible, and the Holy begotten before the worlds; and Man of Charles Coy, one of the leading ber 23 and December 7 issue of Ghost incomprehensible. the substance of His mother, born in the Masons in our area. Editor Christian News. Coy concluded: The Father eternal, the Son eternal, world; and the Holy Ghost eternal. Perfect God and perfect Man. of a Past Worshipful Master of Kleinknecht has not yet re- "We inVite Dr. Morey tojoin Free- And yet they are not three Eternals, reasonable soul and human flesh sub- SulliVan Lodge, No. 69 and a sponded. Yesterday Mr. Coy gave masonry." Coy told CN that Ma- but one Eternal. sisting. Methodist Minister. me your address. sons are Well aWare of Morey's As there are not three Uncreated nor Equal to the Father as touching His three Incomprehensibles, but one U n - Godhead and inferior to the Father as Would you be willing to par- work and noW intend to ansWer created and one Incomprehensible. touching His manhood: ticipate in the kind of written him. So likewise the Father is almighty, Who. although He be God and Man. debate I suggest in my letter to the Son almighty, and the Holy "Ghost yet He is not two, but one Christ: Length: Initial statement for Morey Wrote (CN, December almighty. One. not by conversion of the God- both sides, 5,000 words each; Mr. Coy. He tells me that at the 7, p. 15): "IfCoy is ready to go'put And yet they are not three Almighties, head into fiesh, but by taking the man- Response, 2,000 words each; Re- present time your health does but one A)mighty. hood into God; his money Where his mouth is,' I to Words not permit you to travel to some So the Father is God, the Son is God, One altogether; not by confusion of buttal response, 1,000 Want to go on TV and debate him and the Holy Ghost is God. Substance, but by unity of Person. each. oral debate. .According to Mr. Coy, on Whether or not modem ma- And yet they are not three Gods, but For as the reasonable soul and flesh Time Schedule: Each side you are the leading scholar one God. is one man. so God and Man is one Christ: sonry is anti-Christian. Is he send Masons have been using to de- So likewise the Father is L o r d , the Who suffered for our salvation; de- WiU the other its initial Willing to debate me?" Son Lord, and the Holy Ghost Lord. scended into hell; rose again the third position statement by April 22. fend Masonry When some Chris- day from the dead; Coy has been seeking to get And yet not three Lords, but one Each side MfilI send its response tians claim that Masonry is in- Lord. He ascended into heaven; He sitteth some leading Masonic authority on the right hand of the Father, God to the other side compatible with Christianiiy and For like as we are compelled by the by May 6. Each Almighty; from whence He shall come to debate Morey. Dr. Herbert H. Christian verity to acknowledge every that Christian pastors should not to judge the quick and the dead. WiU send its rebuttal of the re- Reynolds, a Mason and Presi- Person by Himself to be God and Lord, At whose coming all men shall rise sponse to the other by May 20. be Masons. The John Ankerberg So are we forbidden by the catholic dent of the Southern Baptist again with their bodies and shall give Questions: Each side is free show called us yesterday for some religion to say. There be three Gods or an account of their own works. ConVention related Baylor Uni- three Lords. of the articles we haVe been And they that have done good shall to ask the other any questions it Versity, is one of those Coy has The Father is made of none, neither go into life everlasting; and they that Wants. publishing on Masonry. Mr. Coy created nor begotten. asked to debate Moray. The lat- have done evil, into everlasting fire. It appears to me that more tells me that you ably shoWed The Son is of the Father alone, not This is the catholic faith: which ex- est correspondence pertaining to made nor created, but begotten. cept a man believe faithfully and firmly, good Will be accomplished and that Christianity and Masonry the debate Which CN intends to The Holy Ghost is of the Father and hc cannot be saved. more people Will be reached if a are compatible When you ap- publish, folIoWs: Written debate were held, par- peared on the Ankerberg shoW. ticularly if John Robinson Were He says that eVen John Anker- February 7 ,1993 inVoIVed or some leading South- herg could not ansWer your schol- Mr. Herbert H. Reynolds arly defense of Masonry President, Baylor UniVersity THIRTV-THIRD AND LAST DeGREEcc ^ -if i em Baptist clergyman Who is a Mason. If I can find the means, I would Office of ihc President Dr. Robert Morey and Chris- like to send a debate on Freema- Waco, Texas 76798 c. rnco RLCiNKNccMT. 330 • 733 StKTCCNTM STREET. N.W. tian News are willing to con- sonIy to all ofthe 38,000 churches rASHINOTON, D C. 2000»-3ISfl IELCPMONC 202-232-3570 duct an oral debate. I have not in the Southern Baptist conVen- Dear Mr. Reynolds: CASLC SCSJUSA fAX 202-3a7-ia43 contacted Dr. James Holly. An tion. Even if Masons are not will- I am enclosing some informa- oral debate could, of course, be ing to debate, I hope to be able to tion of interest concerning the published and then sent to all send a review of the February, Knights Templar and Freema- ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED SCOTTISH RiTE OF sonry. Maybe you haVe read "The FR.EEMASONRY. SOUTHERN JUR.iSDICTION. U. S. A . SBC churches prior to the SBC 1993 Scottish Rite Journal and conVention in Houston. Or possi- the enclosed articles on MasonIy Origins and Teachings of Free- masonry" by Dr. Robert A. Morey. April 21, 1993 bly such a debate could be held in to all SBC churches. When we Houston just prior to the SBC send these articles to the SBC Morey's book reVieW in "Chris- conVention when the thousands churches, we will be glad to tian NeWs' caused me to respond of SBC delegates, who will be include your response or any to errors made by the author. Mr. Herman Otten Voting on Masonry, will be in response Editor Kleinknecht or You will find that Morey dis- Editor, Lutheran News, Inc. Houston. I suggest you or some any other Masonic scholar might counts Mr. John J. Robinson's Rl^l, Box 309A New Haven, HO 63068 of the Masonic leaders, with care to make. Christian News for books and scholarship totally. whom you haVe been in contact, more than 30 years has a policy Morey desires to debate on tele- Dear Mr. Otten: ask some SBC leaders in Texas, of presenting both sides of an Vision. Could you debate Morey? Thanit you f o r your letter of March 26, 1993, i n which you who are Masons, to arrange the issue. Readers can make up their He Wants to debate Whether or propose an idea for a iiind of written debate on the subject of time and place if you prefer an own minds. not modern Masonry Is anti- Christianity and Freemasoniry. oral debate. Now that the Ma- Sincerely, Christian. His address is Dr. In response to your request, I refer you to the Februairy and sons say they want to answer Herman Otten Robert A. Morey, P.O. Box May issues of The Scottish Rite Journal. These issues contain 52 their critics, instead of ignoring 141455, Austin, Texas 78714. articles relevant to the theme of Freemasonry and Religion. cc. C. Fred Kleinknecht Further, I recommend John Robinson's boo)? entitled A Pilgrim's them as they haVe so often in the enclosed: "Christianity and I haVe not responded to Morey's Path as a third reliable source from which you may obtain past, they may want to engage in Freemasonry" by Kurt Marquart challenge as I need to work and material on this subject. both a written and oral debate. "Does God Want You to Be a support my family. .Also, I be- In these three aforementioned publications, we feel we have I appreciate your open spirit Lodge Member" Concordia Pub- lieVe that a more knowledgeable made our statement. If you wish a debate, all you have to do is and willingiiess to get both sides lishing House Freemason Would be required to t.ake whatever excerpts you wish from any of these sources in meet Morey in debate. order to present your argument. to state their position in public "Should I Join a Fraternal and answer each other. As I told Lodge" Walter A. Maier Jr., Con- I had asked M r . John J . With best wishes. you before, neither Morey nor cordia Publishing House Robinson, who I now learn is a brother, to debate Morey. Bro. Sirtcerely yours. Christian News agree with some April 21, 1993 of the nonsense critics of Ma- Mr. Herman Otten Robinson has been on life sup- sonry have said about MasonIy. Editor, Lutheran News, Inc. port and is unable to debate. It looks like Bro. Robinson will re- Sovereign Grand Commander Sincerely yours, RRl, Box 309A Herman Otten, Editor New Haven, MO 63068 cover, but it will be several Is Modern Masonry Anti-Christian, Yes or No? Christian News Dear Mr. Otten: months before he can travel or cc. C. Fred Kleinknecht, Edi- Thank you for your letter of debate- tor in Chief, The Scottish Rite March 26, 1993, in which you Also, it would be good to haVe Masons Back Out of Debate Journal, The Supreme Council propose an idea for a kind of a response by letter to the editor, 33°' 1733 Sixteenth Street, NW, written debate on the subject of care of Pastor Herman Otten, Washington, D.C. 20009-3199 Christianity and Freemasonry. Christian News, Route l . Box With Christian News and Morey 309A, New HaVen, MO 63068. March 26, 1993 In response to your request, I terial Masons are now sending to refer you to the February and l thank you so Very much for Continued on Page 12 5,000 Southern Baptists leaders Grand Commander C. Fred your attention to this matter. Kleinknecht, 33° May issues of The Scottish Rite family. For the last three years, to support their claim that Ma- Journal. These issues contain Sincerely yours, sonry is compatible with Christi- Editor-in-Chief Charles G. Coy (author) John J. Robinson has The Scottish Rite Journal 52 articles relevant to the theme traveled over 150,000 miles and anity and that Christian pastors of Freemasonry and Religion. P.O. Box 2025 may also be Masons. The Supreme Council 33° Washington, MO 63090 spoken to thousands of Masons 1733 Sixteenth Street, NW Further, I recommend John Perhaps you could again call Robinson's book entitled A Pil- and millions of members of the John Robinson to find out if he Washington, D.C. 20009-3199 public about the Craft. He has FAX 202-387-1843 grim's Path as a third reliable would be willing to participate in source from which you may ob- BAYLOR discussed, debated, and gone a written debate. Dear Editor Kleinknecht: head to head with anti-Masons Christian News has been tain material on this subject. Here is what I propose: In these three aforementioned UNIVERSITY in OVer 100 radio and teleVision Subject: Christianity and publishing various reports on the appearances. Southern Baptists and the Ma- publications, we feel we have Freemasonry. Is Masonry anti- made our statement. If you wish February 11, 1993 "IN PILGRIM'S FAITH, Christian and not compatible sons. Some of them are from Religious News Service, to which a debate, all you have to do is Mr. Charles G. Coy Brother Robinson, now a Master with Christianity? Should Chris- P.O. Box 2025 Mason, recounts these adven- we subscribe, and from various take whatever excerpts you wish tian pastors be allowed by their from any of these sources in order Washington, Missouri 63090 tures. He analyzes and refutes denominations to be Masons? secular papers. A review we pub- lished of a book by Dr. Robert to present your argument. Dr. James Holly's and Pat Format. A written debate to Dear Mr. Coy: Robertson's book, and answers, Morey led to a proposal that we With best wishes. be published by any interested debate a leading spokesman for Sincerely yours, In response to your nice letter point by point, their damaging publication. Christian News of February 7th, let me just say allegations. This book arms Free- Masonry. Note the enclosed let- C. Fred Kleinknecht will publish such a debate. Possi- ter. Sovereign Grand Commander that I do not haVe the time and masons with the answers to the bly The Scottish Rite and other energy to engage in a protracted attackers; and its message should Would The Scottish Rite CFK: bj Masonic publications will also Many excerpts form the Feb- written or verbal debate on the instill in eveIy reader an even publish it. Journal be willing to engage in the kind of written debate which ruaIy and May Scottish Rite matter at hand. greater pride in Freemasonry." Distribution: Each side will Please accept my Very kindest Christian News intends to I propose in my letter to Mr. Journals appear in this issue of be free to distribute the debate Christian News. CN sent a check regards and all best Wishes. photograph the notices of Robin- as widely as it wants. Charles Coy, a Mason who is also a Methodist minister. to the publishers of A Pilgrim's Cordially yours, son's book in the Masonic jour- Christian News will attempt Some of the articles Christian Path but has not yet received nal you gave me and also list its to send the debate to all 38,000 Herbert H. Reynolds address. Some of our readers may News has published on Masonry the book. It will be reviewed in a Southern Baptist Churches prior future issue of CN after CN re- President be interested in having the ma- to June 1. during the last thirty years are in The Christian News Ency- ceives a copy. Continued on Page 12 your attention to this matter. been told that the Craft began THE ORIGINS AND \IM HINGS THE CHRISTIAN NEWS Debate on Sincerely yours, with the building of Solomon's May 24,1993 Page 12 Charles G. Coy Temple. But there is nothing in OF FREEMA.SO.\RY Free Masonry P.O. Box 2025 the Biblical record that eVen re- in 1964. Washington, MO 63090 Continued from Page II motely b y any stretch o f the The reasons Why they con- imagination hints at this idea. February 17, 1993 demned Freemasonry are: "Masons haVe also been told "1. it is a religion as Mr. Tom Eggleston February 24,1993 that the legend of Hiram AbifT many masonic Writers Chairman, Media Committee Pastor Herman Otten, Editor which plays an important role in declare; Grand l^dge oflowa, A.F. & A.M. Christian News the third degree, is a part ofthe "2. it claims to haVe 298 40th Street, NE Route i . Box 3()9A Biblical record- "This is not true. New Haven, Mo. 63()68 come from ancient pagan Cedar Rapids, loWa 52402 "In truth, the legend of Hiram mystery religions Wliich Dear Pastor Otten: Abiff has nothing to do with the deny Christian doctrines; Dear Mr. Eggleston: Re: Dr. Robert A. Morey and his Bible. The legend is nowhere challenge to debate whether or not "3. it is uniVersalistic I am enclosing some informa- recorded i n Scripture. We are and anti-Christian; tion of interest concerning the modern Freemasonry is anti- not told where, how or by whom "4. it teaches that salVa- Knights Templar and Freema- Christian. Hiram died. As a matter of fact, My oniy response to Morey and to tion comes through Works; sonry. Maybe you have read "The^ the masonic legend combines seV- peopIe who read and believe his un- "5. it doWn grades the eral different indiViduals in the Origins and Teachings of Free-' truths is — As a proud member of the name of Christ; masonry" by Dr. Robert A. Morey. Maaonic Fraternity I will not be drawn Bible called Hiram or Hirum into DR. RoBI RT ,A. MlJKfcV "6. it has a false VieW of Morey's book reVieW in "Chris- into hatefuI verbaI battIe over theolo- one composite indiVidual. The gical or doctrinsI issues. A shouting God; tian News' caused me to respond legend has no basis in fact. match is not my forum, trading accusa- "7. it deiues the suprem- to errors made by the author. 'Conclusion Statue of Albert Pike on tions is not my styIe. the cover of The Origin and acy of the Bible by using You Will find that Morey dis- •While we cannot accept these As Masons we wili NOT hide, Teachings of Freemasonry. other l)ooks; counts Mr. John J . Robinson's however. We will continue acting as early theories of where Masonry "8. it is a cult; books and scholarship totally. Masons. We win foIIow the Iight of began, it does reVeal that for "9. it forbids people to Morey desires to debate on tele- faith, brotherhood, and truth. We will nearly two centuries, the Craft had to hire non-masons to b11ild pray in the name of Jesus; Vision. Could you debate Morey? support our families first. We iviII honor was Viewed as a Christian insti- their Halls as no builders Were "10. in its bloody oaths Wants and defend our Nation. We will build tution completely compatible He to debate whether or Masons" (72, 73)! and secrets it is anti-Chris- not modern Masonry is anti- character. We will care for the forgotten with Bibhcal religion. The idea and needy. The truth is that Freema- tian. Christian. His address is Dr. that Freemasonry came from pa- We will stand on the Masonic record, sonry began as a gentleman's "What Masons must under- gan origins neVer crossed their Robert A. Morey, P.O. Box and leave the final judgement of theolo- club Where all agreed not to de- stand is that these serious objec- 141455, Austin, Texas 78714. gical purity exactly where it belongs —- minds" (24, 25). bate such issues as religion or in the hands of God. tions do not come out of thin air I haVe not responded to Morey's Albert Pike politics as this Would generate or from reUgious prejudice. We challenge as I need to work and In the meantime, if Dr. Morey can wait with patience, I am confident and Tike attempted t o remold strife. Today, Freemasonry is fast discovered that the committee support my family. Also, I be- sure that a Brother Mason will answer Scottish Freemasonry into an Ar- becoming a pagan occultic reli- Which issued this report docu- lieVe that a more knowledgeable his challenge to debate. yan religion for the Aiyan race gion complete With its oWn mented each charge by dozens of Freemason would be required to Mr. John J. Robinson has been on life complete with it own scriptures, temples, sacraments and doc- masonic books. meet Morey in debate. I read support and is unable to debate at this ceremonies and symbolism. He trines. "In all fairness. We must ad- your article in The Scottish Rite time. Mr. Robinson, now a Brother, has Was deeply involVed in such oc- debated John Ankerberg and others. "Far too many modem ma- mit that Various masonic Writers Journal of Freemasonry South- He will accept the debate after he re- cult arts such as magic and as- sonic Writers are anti-Christian such as Albert Pike haVe made ern Jurisdiction USA. covers firom his illness. trology. bigots Who try to brainWash their anti-Christian statements Which Also, it would be good to haVe Others may answer the challenge to "Albert Pike does not deserVe fellow Masons into accepting are offensiVe not just to Luther- a response by letter to the editor, debate. the praise that has been heaped their occult teachings as the true' ans but to all Christians. In Christ Jesus' service alone, care of Pastor Herman Otten, upon him since his death. He meaning of Masonry. "What We must ask ourselVes Christian News, Route 1, Box Charles G. Coy P.O. Box 2025 Was not a scholar but a plagia- "It is time that good and hon- as we enter the 21st Century is, 309A, New HaVen, MO 63068. Washington, Mo. 63090 rizer. He Was a fraud and a con- est Masons draw the line and say why cannot the Supreme Coun- I thank you so Very much for man to the end. He Was a pro- enough is enough. If they don't cils of all the Various masonic moter of Aryan racism Which led Freemasonry Will one day be a Rites officially condemn all anti- so many millions to their death. full bloWn pagan reUgion Where Christian bigotry? Why not re- "What then is the legacy of Christians are no longer Wel- moVe those elements in the Craft The Origins and Albert Pike? Pike found Freema- comed or tolerated" (80-81). which are offensiVe to Chris- sonry a Christian institution but Myths tians?" (107, 108)." Ieft it a Hindu tempIe" (49). "Some of these myths are as God of Masonry "Something i s not true just follows. "The God of Masonry at the Teaching of because it is repeated from book "1. It is a myth that all the beginning was the Christian to book. The hard cold fact is that signers of the Declaration of In- Trinity of Father, Son and Holy Freemasonry did not come from dependence Were Masons. Out of Spirit. The triangle was used as some pagan Mystery religion in the fifty-five signers, only five or a symbol for the Trinity. Freemasonry the ancient World" (60). six Were Masons according to any "Since it is obVious that JeWs "Enough has been docu- hard eVidence. as Well as Christians belieVed in By Dr. Robert Morey mented for the intelligent Mason (Reprinted by Harvest House Publishers, New title: The Truth "2. It is a myth that the Bos- the personal Creator of the uni- to know that he has been misled ton Tea Party was a masonic act Verse, they were later admitted About Masons. Available from Christian News, Box 309A,.New by those occultic writers Who for Haven, Missouri 63068.) of a Boston Lodge. Out of the to the club. their own purposes have invented men inVolVed, maybe two or three "At first, the JeWish members Dr. Robert Morey is the Ex- belong to the Fraternity, the idea spurious pagan origins for the Were Masons. Were told that While they did not ecutiVe Director of the Research that they are all involVed in some Craft. To be a Mason does not "3. It is a myth that aU o f haVe to participate in the Chris- mean you have to leaVe Christi- and Education Foundation and kind ofdeVil cult is absurd. Can Washington's generals Were tian elements of the ritual, the anity and conVert to Albert Pike's the author ofoVer 20 books some anyone seriously think that such Masons. lodge Was not going to change its of which have been translated 33rd degree Masons as Senator Hinduism or Manly P. Hall's "4. It is a myth that George ritual for thern. We have already into French, Spanish, Italian, Jesse flelms, the Christian cham- occultism. Washington forced General touched upon the case of Jacob German, Finnish and Chinese. pion of conserVatiVe poUtics, is a "It is n o wonder t o us that LaFayette to become a Mason in Norton and the refusal to the He is an internationally recog- Worshiper of Lucifer? Or, that those Masons who haVe been order to fight in the ReVolution. Grand Lodge of Massachusetts nized scholar and is listed in Con- one ofthe most Well knoWn eVan- pressured to giVe up their Faith LaFayette claimed that he had to delete the Christian elements temporary Authors and Writ- gelists in the world is a Lucif- in order to adVance to the higher become a Mason in France When fi-om its rituals just to please era Who's Who. erian because he is a 33rd degree degrees feel robbed. The Lodge is a young man. him. This book is dedicated to all Masons?" (I l). supposed to be neutral and not a "5. It is a myth that Wasliing- "As time Went along, the name honest Masons who want to know "It became clear t o us after pagan temple of occult mysteries ton was a loyal Mason who faith- of Jesus Christ was gradually the truth about the origins and reading hundreds of masonic that some pretend it to be" (64, fully attended his lodge. The omitted from the prayers and teachings of Freemasonry. booics, lectures and articles, that 65). plain fact is that Washington was rituals in many lodges to accom- Historical Origins modate the Jewish religion. A The author writes: the attempt to trace present day elected to masonic offices, giVen "After examining oVer two simple prayer to the personal Principles Freemasonry to a single origin is Various masonic honors and eVen impossible because, like a liVing hundred books dealing With the God of the Bible was thought to The First Principle had his portrait painted in full language. Freemasonry is always history of Freemasonry, We failed regalia without his knowledge, be sufficient" (111). "We should be as objectiVe and to find a single author Who was "If Christianity cannot be factual as humanly possible. eVolVing and changing as new approVal or even presence! When influences bear upon it" (14). able to submit any hard evidence informed of such actions, he openly taught in the lodge, than After all. What We all Want is the that the Lodge existed prior to neither should any other reli- TRUTH. Thus our research Christian Origins would withdraw himself fromthe "It may come as a surprise to 1717" (71). honors conferred. gion. But the fact that pagan should not reflect any 'axes to "When Freemasonry began in reUgions are being openly tau^t grind' or causes to champion. We many Masons to discoVer that "After being informed that he from the Very beginning. Free- 1717, it was established as a 'gen- had been elected Grand Master in lodge meetings reveals that should not hold any malice to- tleman's club' which met from Pike's anti-Christian bigotry Ward Masons or anti-Masons masonry was Viewed as a Chris- OVer all the Lodges in .America, time to time in Various TaVems. Which he picked up from the alike. tian institution and its symbols, Wasliington refused to accept the degrees and ceremonies were all This was nothing new or star- office" (95). French Lodge has won the day so The Second Principle tling. Hundreds of such clubs far as modern Massr.ry is coi1- "^e must be so committed to interpreted according to funda- Conspiracy Theories mental Christian doctrines. were established during this pe- cerned"^(ll6). the truth that we WUl folloW the "Any honest student of Ma- The founders ofMasonry did riod with many of them still in sonry will admit that Freema- "May We be so bold as to offer eVidence no matter Where it operation today. not View themselVes as pagans, a suggestion? Why not call for a leads. This becomes painful When sonry has suffered many at- "Such clubs were places Where conference vvith Anti-masonic cherished beliefs and prejudices cultists, occultists, Mayans, tempts to take it oVer for diaboli- Druids, witches, Hindus or Bud- rich and powerful gentlemen cal ends. .Alchemists, magicians, leaders to discuss what exactly are shown to be false. could meet to talk, drink, smoke, offends them in Freemasonry and The Third Principle dhists. They neVer claimed that astrologers, mediums, reincar- Masonry descended from an- play cards or just sit and read the nationists, pagans, reVolutionar- what can be done to remoVe those '^idy hard empirical eVidence paper. Of course, no women were offensiVes. Why cannot Freema- cident Mystery cults or the Wor- ies, anti-Christian bigots, pan- Will be trusted. Legends, myths, eVer allowed in such clubs. sonry change its rituals to ac- speculations, guesswork, hear- ship of Isis. They kneW nothing theists and other assorted kooks of such ideas. commodate the feelings of Chris- say and traditions are so unreli- haVe taken what was a basically tians just as it did for Jews, Mus- able that they are worthless. "The Christian interpretation 'The first Grand Lodge Was a Christian organization and established by and for the Upper lims and Hindus? The Fourth Principle of Freemasonry was the accepted turned it into something so oc- norm until the latter half of the Class. Thus it is no surprise that cultic that the early Masons "If the answer is that no "Since masonic writers haVe the first masonic 'club' or Lodge changes will be made in Freema- by and large indulged in much 19th century. .All of the early Would not haVe joined it. writers were committed Chris- Was led by the aristocracy such "Is it possible to restore Free- sonry in order to remoVe those fantasy and fraud when it comes as the Duke of Montague, Who elements offensiVe to Christians, to Freemasonry before I7I7, tians and many of them were masonry to its original purity? became the Grand Master in then eveIy Christian Mason must their statements caimot be taken clergymen of conserVatiVe Yes, it is possible. .Albert Pike 1721. A real stone mason With leaVe the Craft. He will no longer at face Value. They haVe not churches" (17). radically altered the symbolism 'The attempt to find the ori- dirt under his fingernailsWould feel welcome" (116, 117). hesitated to manufacture 'an- not haVe made i t past the front and teachings found in the higher gins of Freemasonry in a pre- degrees. And if one man could do "Unless something radically cient' documents when needed door! happens to alter the present or to insert masonic Words or biblical religion or in the Bible this, cannot a group ofmen do it itself is an exercise in futility. 'The clergymen and the aris- again? As Masonry enters the trends. Freemasonry will not en- phrases in ancient manuscripts. ter the new century in a healthy Their Works must be taken With There is absolutely nothing in trocracy Who made up the bulk of 21st Century, maybe it is time the proverbial 'grain of salt'" (2). the Bible about Freemasoniy. To the membership in the early for Masons to 'clean house'" (99). state. To put it bluntly. Freema- Devil Cult say that Adam's fig leaf was a years of Freemasonry had neVer LCMS sonry is dying" (121). known a hard day's labor. They "Since most Masons in the masonic apron stretches all cre- The conserVatiVe Missouri * * * dulity. did not know anything about the Sjmod Lutheran Church issued U.S. are members of Christian art of stone masonry. They even Churches and many clergymen "Masons haVe traditionally its ban on masonic membership Holmes bodts). month investigation into Shrine THE CHRISTIAN NEWS Masonic Lodge Corrupts 6 Million Men "Mentiott could also be made of charity expenditures, confirming May 24,1993 Page 13 Edward Vlll (Duke of Windsor), the above statistics through IRS From Moody Press DougUs Fairbanlts, Sr., comedian records. Also in 1984, the Shrine the Brahman, the followers of Con- 33,700 Lodges exist around the A Ministry of W. C. Fields, Henry Ford, Ben- hospitals received only 1 percent of fucius and Zoroaster, can assemble wor.W" (p. 21). Moody Bible iDStitate jamin Franklin, Arthur Godfrey, an estimated $17.5 million.coUected as brethren and unite in prayer to 820 North La Salle IMVe The authors frequently quote the Johatm Wolfgang von Goethe, Bar- from Shrine circuses. the one God who is above all tlie Chicago, Illinois 60610 leading Masonic authorities. They ry M. Goldwater, astronaut Virgil "It is a common characteristic of Baalim.' Is Masonry notliing more than a also refer to such secondary E. Grissom, Oliver Hardy (of many cults to make extravagant "Who are the Baalim? Pike harmless brotherhood — a buddy- sources as Paul Fisher's Beliind "Laurel and Hardy'), composer claims touting their funding of defines the term 'Baahm' as the lodge for men? Or-is there more The Lodge Door, which CN has Franz Joseph Haydn, J. Edgar charitable causes. But investigation idols and false gods that are found l>ehind the camaraderie — in the publicized. They write: Hoover, magician Harry Houdini, often reveals that far more money in all other religions outside of secret teacliings and oatlis? "Finally, Fisher obserVes that John Paul Jones, King is kept to promote the organiza- Masonry. These false gods are con- Chicago — The Secret Teachings Masons have dominated the U.S. Kamehameha V (king of Hawaii), tion's own religious goals. This sidered dim reflections of the one of the Masonic Lodge: A Christian Supreme Court from 1941-1971. Rudyard Kipling, and Colonel raises the question as to the motive true Masonic god, the Supreme Perspective, a March 1990 release From 1941-1946 the ratio was 5 to 4; Charles A. Lindberg. underlying Masonry's human- Architect, that Masonry reveals. from Moody Press, is a surprising from 1949-1956 it was 8 to 1; "Also Masons were such notables itarian activities. What are Pike taught that 'Every religio'n look at the Masonic Lodge — the from 1957-1967 it was 6 to 3 and as General Douglas MacArthur, their motives? Unfortunately, and every conception ef God is afterwork meeting place for over from 1969-1971 it was again 5 to 4. Chief Justice of the Supreme Court Freemasonry is not the benign and idolatrous, insofar as it is imper- six million men worldwide — and is He concludes that such influence John Marshall, Presbyterian charitable fraternity it claims to fect, and as it substitutes a feeble may have contributed to the high and temporary idea in the shrine of essential reading for anyone in- clergyman and chaplain of the U.S. be. That it engages in charitable court's 'determination to move the that Undiscoverable Being (of terested in What is really going on Senate Peter Marshall, motion pic- causes cannot alter the fact that it nation away from an emphasis on Masonry)" (p. 110-111). behind closed doors. Authors John ture producer Lewis B. Mayer, leads millions of people astray Judeo-Christian values in public "In conclusion, there is ab- Ankerberg and John Weldon pre- Charles H. Mayo (founder of the spiritually. That great men are life,' helping to further secularize solutely no doubt that Masonry's sent their carefully researched Mayo Clinic), Wolfgang Amadeus counted among its membership society and sustain 'an epoch of god is not the God of the Bible. First ^findings of what is reallj being Mozart, Admiral Robert E. Peary, shows only that great men can also revolutionary liberalism' with far of all. Masonry deliberately rejects taught in die Masonic Lodf *. James C. Penney (founder of J. C. be deceived. That Masonry wants reaching conequences. Jehovah God. Second, it permits, at Ankerberg and Weldon, using Penney Company), General John J. to be best known for its charitable "If Fisher's claims contain any one level, the gods of Hinduism, documents and sources recom- Pershing, Paul Revere, all seven of works Ls, like its 'secrecy,' often a substance, then addressing the Buddhism, Islam, Mormonism, and mended by Lodge leaders, explore the Ringling Brothers, cowboy hero cloak to hide its real teachings and religious views, content, and goals Shintoism to be worshiped around the secret rituals and oaths, show- Roy Rogers, Will Rogers, Sir goals from the undiscerning" (p. of Freemasonry is not an idle task its altar according to each in- ing the teachings of the Masonic Walter Scott, comedian Richard /1). but is relevant to each of us. ln the diVidual Mason's belief. At a higher Lodge to be in direct conflict with The authors quote Paul Fisher, a 'Red' Skelton, French writer and level. Masonry defines God as the ChrlsUan faith. 13th Degree of the Scottish Rite tiie Roman Catholic: philosopher Francois Voltaire, G.A.O.T.U.: a vague, absolutely The Masons teach that all men oath reads, 'I furthermore promise "It is evident that international General Jonathan M . Wainwright, unknowable and inoffensive are inwardly divine and salVation is and swear to use every means in Freemasonry historically has been Lou Wallace (author of Ben Hur), unitarian deity whom it encourages based upon good works and per- my power . . . to contribute with Chief Justice of the Supreme Court a revolutionary world-wide move- all men to worship. Fourth, it calls sonal merit, a plan condeInned in all my might to the . . . propaga- Earl Warren, and Booker T. Wash- ment organized to advance Kab- this god by the secret name Scripture. They also view any tion of liberal ideas wheresoever l ington. Given such facts, who can balistic Gnosticism; (and) to un- may be. 'Jabulon,' a joining together of evil religion's scripture as a symbol of doubt the influence and power of dermine and, if possible, to destroy heathen deities with the God of the divine truth, but not as literal truth. "According to Masonic and Con- modern Masonry?" (p. 23-25). Christianity; to infuse Masonic Bible. Because Masonry has done gressional records, as many as philosophy into key goVernment The Masons delete the name of The authors quote from the these things, it has rejected the God fourteen U.S. Presidents have been structures . . . . All evidence Jesus Christ from all prayers and funeral ritual of Masonry to show revealed in the Bible and ex- Masons: George Washington, points to the fact that most mem- prohibit all discussion of Christ dur- that Masonry teaches salvation by changed Him for a false god. James Monroe, Andrew Jackson, bers of the Masonic Fraternity are ing Lodge activities. The deity of works and not through faith in Therefore, Masonry practices James Polk, James Buchanan, Jesus Christ. Masonry actually largely ignorant of its . . . (real) Christ and liis role as Savior is idolatry and blasphemes God" (p. Andrew Johnson, James Garfield, teaches hatred for the Christ of the designs" (p. 74). denied as the Masons teach that 124) William McKinley, Teddy Bible. Masonry, like many liberal Bible Christ was just a supremely good Roosevelt, William Howard Taft, "The god of Masonry is not the The book shows that Masonry has scholars within the churches, man. . Warren Harding, Franklin Delano God of the Bible. How then can you infiltrated many churches and yet regards the Bible as a mere symbol Denying the Ribhcal doctrines of Roosevelt, Harry Truman, and as a Christian possibly rema... » also quotes from the official reports and not the directly reVealed and heaven and hell, Masonry teaches Gerald Ford. An additional four- Mason when you now know Maso- of varioiis churches which have inerrant word of God. Masonic that all men live forever in the teen Masons have been Vice Presi- nry has lied to you and tricked you concluded that Masonry is anti- scholar Joseph Fort Newton writes Celestial Lodge Above. It also dents. into practicing idolatry? How can Christian and that no Christian in a preface to the Holman Temple claims that God is the spiritual you remain a Mason knowing that "The influence of Masonry in should belong to the Masonic lUusti-ated Edition of the Holy Bi- Father of all men and that all peo- Masonry is causing you to contemporary government was Lodge. Unfortunately most church- ble: ple, regardless of religious beliefs, blaspheme God? If you are a Chris- revealed by the Senate Con- es, including The Lutheran Church- "The Bible, so rich in symbolism, are the spiritual sons of God. It per- tian pastor whose divine calling is gressional record of September 9, Missouri Synod, no longer practice is itself a symbol .... It is a mits the gods of llinduism. Buddh- to preach and teach the truUis con- 1987. l n those proceedings, some what they preach about Masonry. sovereign symbol of the Book of ism, Islam, Mormonism, and Shin- cerning the God of the Bible, how members of the Senate Judiciary Masonry Offers The Faith, the will of God as man has toism to be worshipped around the can you continue to support Maso- Committee had questioned the pro- Viewpoint of learned it in the midst of the years altar according to each Mason's in- nry, which instructs its members to priety of appointing Judge David Liberal ReUgion — that perpetual revelation of him- dividual behef. worship a false god? Jesus said, 'No Sentelle as a U.S. Circuit Judge for self which God is making to The Secret Teachings of the "Liberal religion has long one can serve two masters. Either the District of Columbia. The objec- mankind in every land in every Masonic Lodge answers such ques- tion was raised on the grounds that stressed the fatherhood of God, the he will hate the one and love the age. Thus, by the very honor which tions as: ls Freemasonry a he was a Mason. brotherhood of man, and salvation other, or he will be devoted to the reUgion? Is the god of the Masonic by character, lt typically teaches Masonry pays to the Bible, it "ln response to this, a number of one and despise the other' (Mat- Lodge the God of Christianity? unitarianism (God is one person, teaches us to revere (honor and senators who were Masons Uiew6:24; NIV) (p. 124-125). Does the Masonic Lodge turn men not three) and universalism (all respect) every book of faith . . . vigorously protested. They felt it "Christian Masons and Christian away from Jesus Christ? men will be saved). This is why joining hands with the man of Islam was unthiIikable to question an ap- many liberal ministers have taken as he takes oath on the Koran, and pastors who presently support *** pointee merely because he was a Masonry, must choose to whom John Ankerberg (B.A-, Univer- notice of Masonry. 'The Relatibn of with the Hindu as he makes cove- member of the Lodge. They con- they will give allegiance — to the sity of Illinois; M.A., M. Div., Tri- the Liberal Churches to the Frater- nant with God upon the book that he sidered it 'extraordinary,' 'totally God of the Bible or to the god of nity Seminary) is host of the na- nal Orders' is a pamphlet published loves best. For Masonry knows, unwarranted,' 'most absurd,' and Masonry. It is impossible to do tionally televised "John Ankerberg by the American Unitarian Associ- what so many forget, that religions 'galling and preposterous.' These botii" (p. 124, 125). Show." This program offers an op- ation and written by E . A. Coil, a are many, but Rehgion is one — senators were 'astounded' and Jesus Christ portunity for discussion between Unitarian minister and Mason. In perhaps we may say one thing 'aghast' "Masonry turns men away from Christian and non Christian that article he pleads for a closer .... Therefore it invites to its Christ in at least five ways: (1) religious leaders and leading secu- "ln the debate, Masonic Senators cooperation between Masonry and altar men of all faiths knowing that, Masonry deliberately deletes the lar authorities. Ankerberg is also Strom Thurmond and AlaiI liberal religion because of their if they use different names for 'the name of Christ from its prayers and an international speaker. Simpson, and Senate Majority similar beliefs about God, man, and Nameless One of a hundred Scripture quotations; (2) Masonry JOHN WELDON (Ph.D., Leader Robert Byrd, all of whom salvation by character. The follow- names,' they are yet prayiIig to the requires a Christian to disobey QpeeIIsland Christian University; admitted pride of membership, ing definition of Masonry, given in one God and Father of all; know- Christ by officially prohibiting all D. Min., Luther Rice Seminary) is revealed that Masons constituted the Iowa Quarterly Bulletin, illustr- ing, also, that while they read discussion of Christ from Lodge ac- the author of many books including ates the similarity. different volumes, they are in fact "• Forty-one members of the tivities; (Masonry) blasphe- Playing With Fire and Psychic reading the same vast Book of the Federal Judiciary "Masonry is a Divinely appointed mously offers the titles and of- Healing. Faith of Man (bold face added)" "• Half the membership of the institution, designed to draw men fices of Christ to unbelievers; (4) The Secret Teachings of the (p. 94). Senate Judiciary Committee nearer to God (by character), to Masonry denies the deity of Christ; Masonic Lodge by John Ankerberg "• E ighteen Senators, including give them a clearer conception of The Nature of God and (5) Masonry purposely and John Weldon, $7.95, 333-page Lloyd Bentsen, Sam Nunn, Bob their proper relationship to (a "Anyone who has ever read what downplays the unique role of Christ quality paperback. Dole, Jesse Helms, John Glenn, and unitarian) God as their Heavenly Albert Pike (leading Masonic as Savior, e.g., by teaching that the »** Mark Hatfield Father (the universal fatherhood of authority, ed.) taught about God in christian message of divine The editor of. Christian News "• Seventy-six members of the God), to (all) men as their brethren the higher degrees knows about the redemption is merely a revival of comments: "This is one of the best House of Representatives, includ- (the universal brotherhood of man) deity of Masonry is not the God of earlier pagan stories" (p. 126). and most Uioroughly documented and the ultimate destiny of the ing former Speaker of the Rouse the Bible: 'Masonry, (is that According to the editor of CN, books on the Masonic Lodge which human soul (the immortality of the Jim Wright, Claude Pepper, religion) around whose altars the The Secret Teachings of the we have read in recent years. The soul, i.e., universalism)' " (p. 53). William Ford, Dan Glickman, and christian, the Hebrew, the Moslem, Masonic Lodge is well worth $7.95. authors let Masons speak for them- Trent Lott Masonry Uses Humanitarian selves and thereby shows that "• At least two Senators were Activities to Further Masonry is a religion, rejects the 33d Degree Masons: Bob Dole and Covert Goals only God who exists, the Holy Tri- Senate Majority Leader Robert "Masons, particularly groups nity, teaches salvation by works, Byrd like the Shrine, are known primar- and is closely associated with the "Objections from other Congres- ily for their humanitarian ac- occult, mystery, religions and spi- sional members were raised against tivities, e.g., children's hospitals. ritism. The book presents some of questioning Masonry because Certainly we can all be thankful for the ridiculous views of Masonry." 'Masonry in the country is the such activities on behalf of these Ankerberg and Weldon write: bedrock' and because being a children and all needy persons. "Masons teach that all men — Mason 'simply means people who But, unfortunately, this is not the Muslims, Jews, Hindus, Mormons, believe in God and love their fellow whole issue, and a number of Buddhists, and Christians — man.' It is clear that Masonic in- sources have questioned the use of regardless of their personal fluence extends to the highest levels funds donated for such causes. religious views, are the spiritual of American government. "The Southaven, Michigan, Dally sons of God. Masonry's, second "Many famous and influential Tribune of April 24, 1987, revealed foundational belief is that reform- persons from all walks of life have that even though the Shrine is the ing personal character and practic- been Masons: Protestant minister richest charity in the nation, it gave ing good works will secure God's Norman Vincent Peale, former its twenty-two hospitals for children favor. In other words, the Masonic Senator Howard H. Baker, former less than one-third of the total Lodge clearly teaches that the good Congressman Jack Kemp, Irving amount collected from the public in character and good works of a Berlin, actor Ernest Borgnine, 1984. The remainder was spent on Mason will earn him a place in the William Jennings Bryan, famous travel, entertainment, fraternal 'Celestial Lodge Above' (i.e., scientist Luther Burbank, come- ceremonies, fund-raising, food, and heaven)" (p 10, ll) dian Bob Burns, Christopher 'Kit' so on. In other words, the Shriners The Influence of Masonry Carson, Sir Winston Churchill, allegedly kept 71 percent of $2L7 "Masonry exists in l64 countries Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain), million raised. of the world. According to the En- Tyrus (Ty) Cobb, William 'Buffalo "Circuses sponsored by the cyclopedia Britannica, its member- Bill' Cody, motion picture producer Shrine generated $23 million In ship of 16 million qualifies Masonry Cecil B. DeMille, Thomas E. 1985, but less than 2 percent went to as 'the largest worldwide secret Dewey, Major General James R. the medical care of children. The society.' At least 15,300 Lodges Doolittle, and Sir Arthur Conan Orlando Sentinel, June 29,1986, ran operate in the U.S., and more than Doyle (author of the Sherlock a special four-part series on its six- Cover tJie January 18, 1959, G L O B E - D E M O C R A T SUNDAY MAGAZINE final part of this article, 'The Lu- Dr. Martin Luther "Freemasonry and Eddyism" THE CHRISTIAN NEWS theran Arguments Answered" in the June 21, 1921 Lutheran May 24,1993 Page 14 Masonry Is appears in this special issue on Witness quotes the following Freemasonry. tribute to Christian Science in striking facts produced during Dr. Paul M. Bretscher ofthe The Builder (Vol. 1, p. 212), a the trial was that most of the Anti-Christian LCMS's Concordia Seminaiy, St. Masonic publication: 'The best Klansmen in Minneapolis are Louis, in the April, 1956 Con- and most logical explanation, I Masons. The Klan leaders in the Continued from Page I cordia Theological Monthly, have seen, of that law which is state are mainly prominent edited by the faculty of Concor- the strength of sin and the cause Shriners. During its early orgaIii- of MasonIy is not the Holy I'rin- dia SeminaIy and published hy of death, is given in Science and zation period in Minnesota, I am ity, the only God which the Bible the Lutheran Church-Missouri Health, with Key to the Scrip- informed, only members of Ma- and the LCMS says actually Synod, answered Mr. Van Cott tures, by Mary Baker Eddy; she sonic bodies were permitted to exists. The LCMS says that in "An Open Letter to the Pub- is truly Masonic in placing God join. .An anomalous situation was MasonIy rejects the Virgin birth, lisher of Masonic Inspiration." first, foremost, and all the time . created by the fact that Mayor deity. Vicarious satisfaction and Dr. Bretscher concludes: Leach and the prosecuting attor- resurrection of Jesus Christ. Ac- "'My conscience has been "A Denial of Jesus Christ ney, Floyd B. Olsen, are Shrin- cording to the LCMS, Masonry taken captive by the Word of To Be a Mason" ers." teaches that man must at least God.' Against such a conscience, The October 25, 1921 Lu- "Solemn But Undignified Pen- in part work his own way to Luther says, it is neither safe nor theran Witness in "More Lu- guins" in the January 3, 1923 heaven. The LCMS insists that right to act. Lutherans who theran testimony against the Nation said: "In another section man is totally sinful, man can do Voiced their objections to the Lodge" says: the Ku Klux ticket is swept into nothing to get to heaven, and religious beliefs of Freemasoniy Since the (Swedish) Augus- office. Here and there other or- that a man's eternal salvation are people whose 'conscience has tana Synod at its Jamestown, ganizations are suspected of depends totally upon the grace of been taken captiVe by the Word N.Y., convention, some twenty helping the Invisible Empire. We God. of God.' This is the ultimate rea- years ago, decided by a close have interesting testimony in a Some leading Masons vote (80 to 70, we believe) to Many church members, along son that they dared to protest claim he was a Mason. letter lately received from a against the religious beliefs of retain the antilodge declara- with Masonry, believe that man tion In its constitution, that prominent New York Mason and must do good works to get to Freemasonry. From your point rejecting His redeeming blood! body has bieen divided into two the Klan. He cites a dozen differ- heaven. Theologians of the LCMS of View, Mr. Van Cott, they were Nay, it seemeth as if I had camps, many churches openly ent acts and policies of the Ma- have long said that basically spreading 'anti-Masonic propa- labored in vain!" tolerating the lodge, others sons exactly in line with those of there are only two religions in ganda.' From their point of View We can understand, of maintaining the bars against the Klan, the most significant of the world, Christianity, a reli- they were, and still are, con- course, why Masons have in- it. So we rejoiced when the which was the recent suspension gion of grace alone, which teaches cerned only about confessing vented such stories by which Lutheran Companion, a few for un-American conduct of a that man is saved completely hy what they belieVe to be the Word Luther Is enrolled in the Royal months ago, opened its col- Jewish Master and his whole umns to articles against the God's grace, and a religion of the of God recorded in Holy Scrip- Arch; it is a poor attempt to lodge because the lodge held a ture. They cannot do otherwise." inveigle Lutherans Into the Or- lodge, the editor himself say- law. Which includes all other der. But to drag down the ser- ing that "the regalia and clap- banquet on a Sunday night." religions Which teach that man Dr. Theodore Graebner of vant of God and hero of the trap displayed by secret or- The December 4, 1923 Lu- himself must do something to get Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Reformation Into their numlio- ders on state occasions ought theran Witness noted: "Con- to heaven. answered the Masonic claim that jumbo of Jubelo, Jubela, and to be enough to frighten any gressman W.D. Upshaw of Geor- The 1992 convention of the Luther Was a Mason in "Can Jebelum is an insult to our one away from such heathen- gia told a Cleveland audience LCMS again adopted a resolu- Freemasonry Claim Martin Lu- Christian sentiment and ish nonsense." A contributor November 12 that, when a bill should open the eyes of Some later demonstrated that the tion declaring that Christianity ther?—A SWeeping Disclosure of was offered in Congress for the the Historical Inaccuracies and people as to the true character god of Freemasonry is not the is the one and only true and of lodge religion and lodge God ofthe Bible, and that "it Is investigation of the Ku lOux saving faith and that other relig- Misrepresentations Contained in morality. a denial of Jesus Christ to be a Klan, he offered an amendment ions are false. Today most de- this Widespread Masonic Leg- "Was Jesus a Member of the Freemason." It remains to be which would provide for the in- nominations refuse to say that end" which appeared in the No- Masonic Order?", an editorial by seen whether the lodge ele- vestigation of all secret or lim- non-Christian religions all wor- vember, 1924 Walther League Graebner which appeared almost ment among the Swedes is ited organizations, including ship a false god. The LCMS says Messenger, a youth publication strong enough to muzzle this publication of their oaths. This 70 years ago in The LCMS's editor. in its "A Statement of Scriptural of the LCMS. Graebner began: Lutheran Witness, said: amendment, he said, killed the and Confessional Principles," "Does it sound absurd? Well "Even to ask such a question The ICirchenblatt of the proposal to investigate the Ku adopted in 1973: "We belieVe that absurd or not, FreemasonIy does smacks of blasphemy, does it not? Iowa S3rnod, September 10, Klux Klan" (p. 396). Jesus Christ is the only way to claim Martin Luther as a mem- Yet we see it before us, in bold pronounces the fight against During the 1920's, the KKK heaVen and that aU who die with- ber of the order! print, as the heading of an article the lodge to be inevitable and worked together with Freema- out faith in Him are eternally attacks the Lutheran Broth- 'The difficulty in making good written by a 32d-degree Mason sons and various liberal protes- damned. We belieVe that those erhood of .America, a laymen's this claim consists, for one thing, in the New Age, an organ of that tants to close all Christian day who belieVe in Christ will enjoy organization, liecause its lead- in the fact that Luther lived in degree. schools in the U.S. to make cer- a blissful relationship with Him ing men are Masons. The the sixteenth century while the 'To make Luther a Mason, as ICirchliche Zeitschrift (Iowa) tain that aU children attend some during the interim between their Order of Freemasons was has recently been done, is an August, I92I, contained an ar- government school. Dr. John C. death and His second coming and founded in the eighteenth." insult to the Reformer of the ticle: "Why May We Not Cease Baur, who wrote many articles that on the last day their bodies Graebner concludes "Can Church. EVen to suggest that Our Testimony Against the for Christian News prior to his will be raised (entire statement Lodge?" The author says that Freemasonry Claim Martin Lu- Jesus might have been a mem- death at almost 100, was chosen in The Christian News Ency- "no orthodox and honest syn- by the LCMS to lead the fight for ther?": ber of the Craft is repulsive in a odical body is permitted to tire clopedia appendix to Volume much higher degree, yes, is blas- Christian day schools which 1). In the tliird place, had Free- in its fight against this great- masonry existed in Luther's phemy." est evil of our time," and as- ended with the well known Ore- Today most major denomina- time, we know full well what "Again, we must insist that, serts that "every congregation gan and Michigan cases. Baur tions, and also the Pope, agree the lieformer's attitude toward according to Masonic writers, the in which the lodge has found a said that the pubhcizing of a tract with the Masons that Jews, Hin- its teachings and practices system which now bears that home must institute measures by Masons, which said that chil- would have been. He would of church discipline,"—that it dren belong first to the state, dus, Mohammedans, and other have noted a strange similar- name did not originate before non-Christians still worship the 1717; hence the claim suggested must exclude those who finally helped turn the tide against the ity between the god of Ma- remain obdurate. "The lodge Masons, KKK, and various lib- true God and that these non- sonry and the god of the Turks, in the heading quoted is in itself denies, in principle, Christ as eral Protestants. Christians can get to heaven both the Masonic and the Mo- ridiculous." the Mediator." The love of God without saving faith in Jesus hammedan system denying "We can forgive Masons for and fellowman rapidly grows The Uniting of Christ. They all reject the words the Holy Trinity by worship- inventing stories hy which Lu- cold in lodge-infested congre- Christ and Belial of Jesus in John 14:6 "I am the ping a god who is not God and ther is enrolled in the Royal gations." Etc. Father of Jesus Christ. Lu- "Settling the Lodge-Question way, the truth, and the life: no Arch—a poor attempt to inveigle The Ku Klux Right," and editoral by Graebner man cometh unto the Father, ther would have been horror- struck if asked to repeat the Lutherans into the order. But to Klan and Masonry in the July 19, 1921 Lutheran but by me." Along with the Ma- blood-curdling oaths of the drag down the Son of God into 'The Ku Klux Klan," an edito- Witness (p. 231) sons, the Pope and many modern lodge. Aliove all, he would have their mumbo-jumbo of Jubelo, rial by Graebner in tlIe Novem- Settling the Lodge-Ques- clergymen and theologians in the testified with all the power of Jubela, and Jubelum is an insult ber 22, 1924 (?) Lutheran Wit- tion Right.—^We recorded some major denominations reject the language at his command to our Christian sentiment and ness, p. 375, blasting the KKK, months ago the persistent ef- Athanasian Creed which begins: against a system which has as should open the eyes of some says: "If there is anything dark forts which are being made "Whoever will be saved, before its very basis salvation by people to the true character of and secret, it is the ways of the throughout the country to all things it is necessary that he works. For this is the great, lodge religion and lodge moral- break down the position of our soul-destroying error of lodge international Jew. One need not Church on the lodge-question. hold the Catholic (i.e., universal. ity." accept all the revelations of po- Christian) faith. religion that it demands no repentance, no faith in Christ Deceptions of Masonry litical Judaism which Mr. Ford But this agitation, while "Which faith except everyone as Mediator and Redeemer, Graebner, who was long a pro- has published, but his agents much more fierce and purpose- do keep whole and undefIled, but promises salvation to all fessor at the LCMS's Concordia have unearthed enough to prove ful than in the lodge-fight of without doubt he shall perish who live up to the principles of Seminary and editor of LCMS's that the Jews are working under twenty years ago, has even everlastingly. fraternity and general moral- The Lutheran Witness, wrote a great and influential secret now brought forth an astound- ".And the Cathohc faith is this, ity. many editorials and articles ex- organization which has its ing result, lt has acted as a boomerang. Not only are our that we worship one God in Trin- We can hear the Reformer posingthe anti-Christian nature branches in every continent in ity and Trinity in Unity." exclaim, as the principles of congregations fully alive to the the system are explained to of Masonry and the lodges. His the world. As between the New situation, but the entire lodge- The Masons, the Pope and him (assuming that Masonry "Letters to a Masonic Friend" York Kehillah, the American question is getting an airing modern Protestant leaders re- existed In his day): was published by Concordia Pub- Jewish Committee, and the great in congregational meetings, ject the sections of the Athana- 'Why, my good Stauffe- lishing House in 1923. It consists Order of B'nai B'rith on the one pastoral conferences, and sian Creed which teach that those nacher, thou art two-fold a of a series of letters which ap- hand, and the workings of the synodical conventions as it who do not believe that the Holy child of perdition! Thou hast peared in the 1923 issues ofthe Ku Klux Klan, the latter seem never had before. The opening Trinity is the only true God are been set free from one hea- Lutheran Witness. The letters harmless and ineffectual... And gun was fired when our na- lost in Hell. thenish system of superstition showed why no consistent Chris- is there not more openness in the tional convention at Detroit, No denomination has taken a and hast adopted another! by unanimous vote of the pas- tian should become a Mason. His practices of the K.K.K. than in tors and laymen present, de- stronger stand against Freema- Thou hast been liberated from the self-chosen holiness of the "Winning The Lodge-Man—A the intense political activity of clared that the paragraph sonry than the Lutheran Church- Pope and hast adopted the self- Handbook of Secret Societies" international Freemasonry? We against unionistic worship, the Missouri Synod. The LCMS has chosen holiness of the Wor- was published in 1925. know what the Kluxes want; but membership paragraph of our always opposed Masonry because shipful Master's 'lectures!' "The Lodge Undermining what is behind the machinations constitution, includes the ofthe LCMS's great love for the Thou hast thrown overboard Justice" by Frank G. Brash in of Masonry? Is it not very stange lodge as a unionistic organiza- truth of God's Word, the Saving such ways of salvation as mon- the May 15,1928 Lutheran Wit- that the congressional investi- tion.—Membership in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the scrip- asteries, prayers to the saints, ness concludes: "Could the Chris- gating committee at Washing- lodge is thereby declared an tural doctrine of justification by penances and indulgences, and tian church justify its existence ton after a few sessions dropped obstacle to membership in our faith alone, and the eternal sal- hast adopted the way of the Synod. Since that date, and Level and the Square, and of if it would idly stand by and the Ku IClux Klan like a hot iron? especially in recent months, vation of lost sinners. the Rough Ashlar, and of the condone societies whose perni- Why? Is it possible that the lodge- no question has been so thor- Luther Was Not a Mason theological ladder of Seven Vir- cious influence is so evident that members in Congress heard from oughly discussed in our con- Some Masons contend that tues, and ofthe Master's Car- even the daily press complains of their constituency. It is possible ferences as this, and, let it be Martin Luther was a Mason. See pet! In short, thou hast cruci- it?" that as a result of the Ku Klux said, in every case that has "An Open Letter to Lutherans fied Christ afresh by substi- 'The Deceptions of Masonry" agitation the entire secret sys- been ieported to us absolute Spreading Anti-Masonic Propa- tuting for His own atoning intheAugust2,1921 Lutheran tem is in danger of being recog- unanimity prevailed,—"this ganda—Was Martin Luther a merits the 'pass of a blameless Witness concludes: "Is it so diffi- nized by the man in the street in thing must be fought to a fin- life' as thy hope for eternity! its un-.American and antisocial ish." More than that. Mason? . . . Masons Saved Lu- Fie, what a work of deception cult, after all, to judge an organi- In the time of rest that we ther's Life" by Charlie Van Cott, has Satan practiced upon thy zation which instructs its mem- tendency?" had, vigilance has not every- the publisher of Masonic Inspi- soul! Flee to Christ's wounds bers to 'intentionally lead astray' 'The Klan on Trial," an article where been what it should ration in the Christian News in repentance for thy denial of those who are not members of in the June 13, 1923 The New have been,—unremitting. Encyclopedia, p. 1139. The Him, asking His pardon for the order?" Republic, said that "One of the Continued on Page 15 A true Christian can there- THE CHRISTIAN NEWS fore not stand on common May 24,1993 Page 15 Masonry Is Masonic Codebook Decoded ground of religious principles When the editor of Christian News was a student at Con- with the Jew. Such position is more Cohens than Smiths the Anti-Christian cordia Seminary, St. Louis (1952-58), Masonic codebooks, the unequal yoke regarding Jews have a stranglehold upon which the apostle admonishes Masonic activity. There are which only masons were supposed to haVe, were aVailable at about 200,000 Masons of all Continued from Page 14 the seminary to show students what masonry teaches. The every Christian, saying: "Be ye not unequally yoked to- ranks and degrees in this, the section on page 47 reproduced helow teaches salVation hy sleepless. Some congregations gether with unbelievers; for greatest Jewish city of the have gone to sleep on the ques- works. Explanation of the code beginning at line 3 on page 45: what fellowship hath right- world, and there are not only tion. And in some of these the Line 3: Worshipful Master: Why were you presented with eousness with unrighteous- lodges which are composed en- lodge has taken a foothold. a lambskin apron, which is the ti*ue badge of a mason? ness? and what communion tirely of Jewish Masons, but NOW SUCH CONGREGA- Senior Warden: Because the Iamb has in all ages been there is scarcely any lodge or hath light with darkness? any activity of any lodge that TIONS ARE CLEANING deemed an emblem of innocence, he therefore who wears the "Opposing Secret Societies" an HOUSE, ln some places there is not influenced by Jewish lambskin as a badge of Masonry is thereby continually editorial which appeared some leadership or propaganda. has even now been a fierce reminded of that purity of life and conduct which is essen- 70 years ago in The Lutheran fight; in others the member- The same conditions pre- ship is quietly and purpose- tially necessary to his gaining admission into the celestial Witness (date not recorded in vail proportionately in our fully getting rid of its lodge- lodge aboVe, where the Supreme Architect of the Universe the clipping in CN's files, only p. other American cities. At least members. In not a single con- presides. 343 cited): "No organization has half of the Chicago Masons gregation in which, to our given so much inteUigent instruc- are Jews, according to the 45 knowledge, the issue has now tion and patient, but explicit statement of a Chicago Jew been drawn, has a stand been ws md ns !S as a tkn % our snci-ty ( cndc well i eseiitly entirely of Jews. A VALUABLE ncsr t iis gng adms int -H eistl :: nliv, ostracism because of their testi- evil has entrenched itself, it is There is especially one wiir -H Supin Ari'tc % M TTiiivs lirsds. mony." now lieing dealt with sternly,— AID TO THE MEMORY branch of Freemasonry which (i>(^- fe)hwr u rq t dps sin % a iiitc i<. with due regard to the degrees Jews in Freemasonry the Jews in America control REVISED EDITION 1951 I (i>- It ws t rmnd ni % in liin xtriiil practically without limit and of brotherly admonition,—but pr @ puis sitn; slid I ev nftwds int li "One Thing Mr. Ford Forgot," none the less sternly. Undoubt- restraint, and that is those ALLEN PUBLlSlltNO COMPANY frn, mr esp a br, i lit cndii, tt 1 slid an editorial by Lutheran Hour edly, where congregations lodges which are composed of NEiy YOKK. N, Y. cut ns Ibl t hs rl as I cd d wtht ino t ni. Speaker and Concordia Semi- continue to permit this unit- German Americans—the COPYHCHT it9&, sr (i>P>- fa)hwr u pic i -ii n-e cr as -H naIy Professor Dr. Walter Maier, ing of Christ and Belial, of yE«). lodges that have succeeded in C. Gavitt in the July 1923 Walther snatching some of our misin- apostolic Christianity and I (I)- 3cs in optV (i)sy -ti fs sin % a eighteenth century British COPVUGIIT 1940, 1951 lildg i usiy pic t -ti n-e cr. 1 ws tlirfr League Messenger, youth pub- formed members from the Deism, the Districts vvill speak BY pled tin- t rev those fs instcns upii wli lication of the LCMS, noted the church which they had not a word. ALLBH PUBUSilINO COMFANT t bid my futr mrl @ (5sc edfc. Iarge influence Jews have in Ma- learned to love. . . . "Defining an Elk," an edito- sonry. This editor can recall that What All This Means rial in the September 13, 1921 Mr. Holt wrote many articles ior, the Redeemer from sin and during his boyhood years in New When we are thus con- Lutheran Witness (p. 297) said and poems for Christian News death, on common ground of York City, his father took issue fronted with the evidence of even after he reached 100 years principles of religion! Strange with German immigrants who increasing domination of the after quoting an Elk poem: "So harmony, indeed! Light and Masonic orders by the Jews, the Elk goes to heaVen by his of age. His 'The Case Against claimed that Jews were not al- darkness, Christ and Belial, lowed to be Masons. The editor's we realize—entirely apart good works, without Christ. But The Lodge" appears in the Cliris- believer and infidel, truth and from the question that may he and this must giVe us pause— tian News Encyclopedia, p. lie—on common ground, of tbe father told his nominally "Lu- raised as to the genuiness of haVing a Christless religion and 1140. The LCMS's Concordia samff belief! No, not even a theran" Masonic friends that the Protocols—that the inter- professing a Christless God Publishing House in 1914 pub- Master Mason like the afore- Jews were often in leadership national program of the Jews means that the Elk goes to a lished "A Treatise on Freema- mentioned speaker can erect positions in their own lodges. .As is using these secret orders to Christless heaVen." sonry" by Theodore Graebner such a structure. God's Word a member of a German singing further its own ambitions and based on the testimony of Ben- says: "No man can serve two club he was able to get into some that the greater their success, Why I Left the Masons masters; for either he will hate the moi-e dangerous their ag- "Why I Left the Masons," an jamin J. Holt and other Masonic Masonic gatherings where most the one and love the other, or non-Masons were not invited. gression will be to our own article in the August-September, sources. else he will hold to the one and country. 1923 Walther League Messen- "Another Self-Indictment of despise the other," Matt. 7,24; Maier wrote in the Walther But in addition to this, we ger by Benjamin M. Holt con- Masonry" by H. Harms in the and this divine statement will League Messenger: also realize that the anti- cludes: "Masonry has no sina, my December 4, 1923 Lutheran remain true. Jew and Chris- The fact of the whole mat- Christian character of Ma- friend! She needs no SaVior, so Witness quotes a leading Mason tian on common ground! No; ter is this that proportionately sonry also increases to the she claims. Says J.W. Lawndes, as saying: "In perfect harmony for Christ says: "All men no church or nationality is as extent that the Jews are suc- should honor the Son even as Grand Secretary of the Grand the Jew from his synagogue and strongly represented in the cessful in carrying through the Christian from his church they honor the Father. He that Masonic ranks as the Jews! their proposed dominion of Ma- Lodge of Wyoming: 'Masonry honoreth not the Son honoreth Perhaps it was this fact sonry. The fact that the poli- teaches you to live a just and find a common ground in the not the Father which hath sent that caused the Grand Secre- cies and plans of this organi- upright life, and so long as you do Masonic fraternity." Him."John 5,23. Truth and lie tary of the Grand Ixidge ef zation are being shaped by men this you need not Worry about The Lutheran Witness then on common ground! No; for St. New York to withhold all in- who are anti-Christian in word your sins. There will not be comments: John says: "Who is a liar but formation when he was asked and deed should be a powerful any.'—Official letter, January 7, The Jew, who is a Jew just he that denieth that Jesus is to issue a statement as to the and compelling reason for ev- 1921. because he denies Jesus to be the Chiist? He is antiChrist, number of Jews in the terri- eryone who is moved by the "the Christ, the Savior of the that denieth the Father and tory under his jurisdiction. For, Spirit of Jesus Christ to flee "Now do you see Why I left the world," and the Christian, who the Son. Whosoever denieth in New York City, where ac- from this polluting inquity for- Masons? Would you not have is a Christian just because he the Son, the same hath not the cording to the latest issue of ever. W.A.M. done the same?" confesses Jesus to be his Sav- Father." I John 2,22.23. the city directory there are The Masonic Apostacy Continued on Page 16 .MS WALTHER LEAGUE .MESSE.NGER /i(/v. '0.'.? July. lOJS WALTHLK LEAGUE MESSENGER .M9 Youth Publication Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod this wriling, however, it will be >hown Today Ma>onic ofticer> frankly adliiii faith, and will say that ihey make that even in our own country the Jew- not only that Jews are eligible for all. viry good Ma-i-bnic material." ish propaganda for the supreme direc- including the very -highest of Masonic There is. therefore, no doubt as to tion Of Freemasonry has assumed larger honors, but also that they are welcomed Mas( . > over-zealous welcome to Jcw- proportions, and is working with jiiore inio the Masonic ranks and that they ish brothers, and there is still les^ doubt JEWtSH success, than most of u- realize. prove to be among the most zealous and as to the Jewish desire to accept this untiring workers for ihu iurlherancc of .Icome. as we shall see. Jews Make "Very Good Masonic Masonry. Significant is the statement Material" in Henry Ward Dalia's "History of Mtsonry Makes Very Good Jewish There was a time in our -coulliry when Freemasoliry" which states: Material Freemasonry made a semblance oi be- Both of the Grand Secretaries quoted ONE THING FORD FORGOT "The higher degrves began to be ing a Christian ortranization. Masonic above are anxious to stress the fact that added in France — and wert in- orators used to wax elogueni in de>crib- there are not isolated ilistancc> of Jew- Few aRitation? haw t-rca;ed so much and — Masons. For. tht,' part oi the Jews Claim Control of Masons troduced from France into the ing the truly Christiali character oi their ish Masonic affiliation, bu: rather that comment and caused such general cx- Protocols that the Ford weekh' has not I'nited Stales through the channel Bu: ii the attitude oi the Elders of organization. And even today there are there are "quite a few" Masonic Jews. cilement as the anti-^cinitir campaiffn of discussed is the relation between the 01 t!1e Jews." Zion toward Masonry is startling, they no few deluded and uninformed Ma^o^^, If we stop to realize that the entire Inivrnational lew and ihc Frciniasons. Mr. Ford, instiliited nUom three years are in no degree ambiguous in defining especially in those parts of the country History ^hows that the Jew who in- Jewish population of our country is rela- ago, and continued ii: ihe cohlmns ol' 1: is true, the man who wrote the lust what this relation between the Jew- where there arc few or no Jew-, who roduced the Scottish Rite degrees in lively very small. lhi< emphasi> becomes the "Dearborn Ilidependenl" until series oi anti-Semitic articles in the com- ish and the Masonic world i- to be. The really think and who significant. The fact of paratively recently, uheii. ior some rea- "Dearborn Independent" knew that the Protocols state quite clearly, a^ Mr. claim that Masonry is the whole niaitcr is son or other, the anti-lewish article? Protocols specifically mentioned and Ford"s paper neglects to record: a support and pillar oi this that proportion- were rather abruptly discontinued. In discussed the Masons, becausi.' when he "It is scl [-understood that we Christianity. They ately no church or na- the long series of tht-sc articles Mr. comes to the part oi tht.- Protocols whi^ (that is. the lews I alone and no one point to the open tionality is as strongly Fords editor showed how the Jews with secret societies, he says, very Bible, to the proiusion deal else direct the activitie^ oi the Free- represented in the Ma- were securing a strangle-hold upon some significantly ("The International Jew," oi Biblical terms that masons. Only we know what tbe sonic rankv as the of the industries of our country, how Volume 1. p. 1301: are banded about in ends are toward which they are Jews! they contB-olled Ih e financial worid. the the lodge vernacular: "The remarks under this head arc striving, and we alone recogliize the Perhaps it was this publishing industries, the theatre busi- they make much oi curtailed by the present writer, be- ultiniate end of their ever>- action. fact that caused the ness in all of its phase,-, including the their cathedrals and cause the Protocol- make reference The Gentile^, on the contrary, have Grand Secretary oi motion pictures, and how by these and poinl with pride to the to a very important secret order, not the leaon) and which is thcrclore. re- These Free and .Accepted Masons with a statement a< lO the secret order> and who Zion." served for future and fuller atten- their pompous titles, their imposing de- number oi Jews in the do not hesitate to tion. It will, however, be oi inter- grees., their osiciiiatious regalia — all territory under his The deluge of printed material that champion Masonry's est to the members oi that described as tools of international Ju- jurisdiction. For, in flooded the country in th e newspaper,-; Order cause. They remind daism! Masonry with its two million New York City, where and popular magazine- in the attempt to to see what the Protocols have to US oi all these things adherents in our country, with the according to the latest counteract the claim- of the Detroit say oi it. and then to check up the and then cap the wealth that it represents and controls, issue of the city di- automobile manufacturer has not yet fact and see how they correspond." chmax by telling us and the authority which it commands rectory there are more subsided. Yet. in spite ot all that has Three years have passed sil>ce the that their Masonic and exercises, serving knowingly or un- Cohens than Smiths been said and written, the significant promise oi "future and lullcr attention" connections are help- The Man Behind the Scene knowingly the ambitions Oi Jewish the Jews have a fact remains that no one has yet been was made, and while we have not the ing to make them better Christian.-. world dominion! able to disprove the existence and the slightest doubt that tbe promise made in our country was the Parisian Etlenne strangle-hold upon Masonic activity. trt-nuincncss of the.se Protocols, which the columns of the "Dearborn Independ- Ii il were not for the cold fact- in the .\side from the fact that such people Morin and experience shows thai his There arc about 200.000 Masons of alt claim to reproduce tht- re-oUltions ac- ent" will be kept, we do not ieel that case and for the clear and unbiased do not know what Christian religion re- country-meli oi today have made large ranks and degrees in this, the great- cepted at the first Zionist Congress therv should be any further delay in records of recent history such a situa- ally means and implies, we note that and liberal use of his importance. The est Jewish city of the world, and there which was held in 18**/. at Basel, Switz- presenting to the readers of Ihe "Mes- tion, at first glance, would appear as according to Mackey's "Encyclopedia of Grand Secretary oi the Grand Lodge of are not only lodges which are corn- erland, and which for very obvious rea- senger" the altitude oi the International humorous as it seems impossible. Yet. Freemasonry." "Freemasonry is not Oregon states: posed eniirely of Jewish Masons, but sons were kept secret until by accident Jew toward the Masonic order, as it is even if the Protocols were the purest Christianity, nor a substitute for il." "There are quite a number of ^^ere i> scarcely any lodge or any ac- diflferent translation*- were secured and outlined in the Protocols. fiction, and even ii this reference to the The position of Freemasonry is clearly Masons of the Jewish railh. Many ^'^''^J' ^^^^^ ^^^^ ""^^ influenced described when ihe same authority, in published by people who recognized Thi- attitude is nothing short of start- control of the action oi the Masonic of these have joilied the Scottish by Jewish leadership or propaganda. correcting the mistaken ideas of other Tbe same conditions pre\-ail propor- their impomancc. ling. But lest the reader con.sider the orders were entirely invented, there can Rile and the Shrine." Masonic writers is constrained to say tionately in our other .American cities. Most of the Very piain and alarming e.\pression of the Protocols too drastic be little doubt as to the truth of the im- .\ny person who uses his powers of in the oit-quoled words: At least half of the Chicago Masons are utterances of these Protocols received and too startling lo be true and his- plications, when we consider the cir- observation wilt come to the coliclusion cumstances that confront us today, not "Hutchinson and Oliver ha\x Jews, according to the statement ol a detailed comment in Mr, Ford's paper. torical, we simply emphasize the fact that the Oregon Grand Secretary . . . fallen into great errors in , . Chicago lew who is a high-degreed One very important, yc^, t>>tntial part that ii this part of the Protocol- is re- only in our own country, but throughout calling the master Mason's degree a speaking not only tor the domains oi hls -j-he Old Kev.stone lodge in 01 these Protocols, howtvcr was noljected, then all that Mr. Ford has pub- the civilized world. Christian institution, ... If Ma- Grand Lodge, but also lor the whole ^j,at citv from which Ronayne seceded published, and it i s difficult to under- lished lyust be consigned to the limbo Oi the control which Jewish leaders sonry were >ilnply a Christian insti- '^^^"^^y- has as many Jew* as Gentiles. And stand why the .scries should be com- oi newspaper imagination and stn. where it will Vital not conscientiously partake of if- sonry with wide-spread arms. The of Tews. difticult. we say, unless, indeed, the to suggest any possible motive that be shown that the Jews are either in illumination. Bui its •uniVersalitv Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of There is especially one branch of Ford presidency , boom is something might lead the wealthy genius to risk actual control and direction oi Masonic i- its boast. . , . .^t its altars men Baltimore is enthusiastic enough to ad- Freemasonry which the Jews in Ameri- more than the newspapers would lead his name. fame, and fortune by support- afTairs, or are earnestly striving — am of all religions may kneel; lo its init: ca control practically without limit and us to belieVe, and Mr. Ford, anxious toing a mere will-o'-th'-wisp fancy) then not without success — for this contrf creed disciples of every creed may "We have quite a few members in restraint, and that i^ those lodges which be elected, realizes thai he cannol over- what he has neglected or forgotten to and direction in those countries wher subscribe." our Grand Lodge of the Jewish come the combined opposition of Jews write about Masonry i« also correct. their plans have not iully matured. . Continued on Page 16 May a Christian Be a Lodge Member Verse has a place for eVery one of his sons whom he THE CHRISTIAN NEWS created. To think that Christians only merit immortality May 24, I993 Page 16 Continued on Page 4 is narrow and not in keeping with the omnipotent loVe of teaching is very clear: "You are severed from Christ, you the Creator of this Vast uniVerse. Published Bimonthly by Office of The Grand Sec- who would he justified by the Law; you have fallen away 5. Belief in the diVine authenticity of the Holy retary, Box 4147, Springfield, Illinois 62708. from grace." (Galatians 5:4) Scriptures. This is in direct opposition to Masonry ".Among those Who displayed an intense hostility to This judgment is not a sectarian concern nor is it due which demands a belief in God and the immortality ofthe Masonry Was a group of strict confessional Lutherans to narrow-mindedness. Learned and sincere Christians soul as its sole religious test. Masonry recognizes that from Saxony, Who settled in Missouri. Only 700 in num- of many different denominations have made thorough many men approach God in different ways and that to be ber in the beginning, they gradually gathered around studies of lodgery. The facts are clear in spite of the dogmatic and set up one way as the only way to make a them an eVer increasing number of German immigrants. "secret" aspect of Masonry and other similar organiza- mockery of tolerance and brotherhood and set a road- By the time of World War I they had become the largest tions. There should be no attempted "coVer-up" by friend block against any possible Brotherhood of Man. synod in American Lutheranism. Their great leader, the or foe; anyone Who Wishes to can make his oWn inVesti- There is only intellectually honest conclusion: Martin late Carl Walther, Was a man of great pietism and strict gation of secret societies. Luther was aMason, loVed his membership and praised orthodoxy. He left an abiding imprint on all Lutheran Father Walton Hannah, a leading 20th century au- the Values he received from it; Or, Martin Luther was thought in America through Concordia Seminary which thority on the lodge, summarizes his findings in words not a Mason but was protected, sheltered and inspired he founded. He insisted that the Christian Was commit- ted to the testimonies of the Church giVen in the ecu- which should be seriously pondered by eVery indiVidual. by the Masons of his day. In either case. Mason in fact or He writes: "No Church that has seriously inVestigated enabled to defy the pope and promote the Reformation menical creeds and confessions of the Lutheran Refor- the religious teachings and implications of Freemasonry through the courage of his Masonic friends. Martin mation. .Any influence that tended in any way to dimin- ish this perception of what it meant to he a Christian was has eVer yet failed to condemn it." (Darkness Visible, Luther would have quickly died a martyr, his bold body London: Augustine Press, 1952, p. 78) consumed by burning fagots, and Protestantism would denounced. Masonry with its ecumenical spirit towards other Christian groups, let alone other religions, was ab- Mr. William J. Whalen, a leading American author- have suffocated in its cradle and not the brave Masons of solutely forbidden." ity, summarizes the church's point of View: "In essentials that era stood behind the rebel monk. Again and again Protestants and Orthodox criticize the lodge for the same Luther was threatened with death as a heretic. .Always "In drawing this address to a close, I Would also Want reasons as do Catholics. Furthermore, Protestants ac- it was the Masons, particularly the German Princes, to share With you the fact that I Wrote to many of the cuse the lodge of advocating salvation by good works overwhelmingly members ofthe Craft, who saved him. judicatory heads of the major religious bodies. In the United States to elicit their response to Free Masonry. I rather than by faith alone. They are naturally distressed Conclusion: The Lutherans Are Unfair by the use of mutilated Bible texts in lodge services receiVed fiVe responses to nine letters of inquiry. The The anti-Masonic campaign by certain Lutheran Syn- Lutheran churches all View the Masonic fellowship which delete the name of Jesus Christ, and they protest ods is unfair and illogical. MasonIy is the greatest friend askance for theological reasons. In View of what I have against beingyoked with unbelievers in the fellowship of of all religions. Wherever it has thrived churches have already obserVed about the Missouri Synod of Lutherans the lodge." (Christianity and American Freemasonry, been free. Where MasonIy has been oppressed Dictators Milwaukee: Bruce PubHshing Co., 1958, p. 148) let me share with you a portion of their reply. It is of church and state have reduced men to peonage, brain- expressed in a fine spirit of Christian charity and ex- God's Will Is Clear washed progressive ideas, set civilization on a backward presses Very clearly and charitably what MasonIy is up There are, to he sure, many sincere individuals who march. Masonry through all history has attracted men of against with a number of Christian groups: do not realize that lodge membership involves them in a all faiths because it practices the Brotherhood of Man "... please receiVe this paper with the understanding different way of salvation and life. Sadly, there are and while respecting all religions. It blueprints no par- Christian churches which no longer inform their people that it is written specifically for members of the Lu- ticular theology simply because it is a fraternity and not theran Church-Missouri Synod-and no attempt is made nor give pastoral guidance in this area. Permissiveness a religion. and humanism have infected all branches of Christian- to speak for anyone else or any other theological persua- Certainly great numbers of thinking men are going to sion. It is based on the theological confession and com- ity and have silenced Vital parts of the Christian confes- act fair and "get the facts." When they do get both sides mitment of the Lutheran church, with Which you may sion. The Christian churches haVe sometimes hesitated of the story. Masonry will emerge even more strong than not agree. and equiVocated in this crucial matter of doctrine and ever, Man still seeks "more light." So . . . official ""We do not Wish to be identified With some of the hfe. Masonry will take no heed of these unfair propaganda God's will is clear. "If God be God, worship Him" attacks that are made on Freemasonry by some Chris- smears. They come and go as they have through all the tian authors. We are concerned about the religious pro- (Father, Son, and Holy Ghost). 'This (Jesus) is the true history of Masonry. Meanwhile something glorious, some- nouncements described in the enclosure." (There foUoWs God anil eternal life." "He who does not honor the Son thing pretty wonderful is going on—men of all creeds, a lengthy list of quotations from Various of our so-called does not honor the Father who sent Him." professions, races and stations can meet in the one place Masonic authorities). The letter continues: m the world where Brotherhood with a capital B is a "'Masons are fond of saying that none ofthe sources An Open Letter to Lutherans Spreading reality—the Masonic Lodge. If Martin Luther was a quoted are 'official' because Freemasonry i^ an oral Mason—fine. If he wasn't—at least he owes his Very life tradition and nothing may be written down. Yet the Anti-Masonic Propaganda and success to the protection, sympathy and under- sources include the rituals employed in the lodges and Was Martin Luther a Mason? ... standing of the braVe Masons of his time. Either way, it explanations ofthe meaning of Freemasonry hy some of makes the anti-Masonic attacks of certain Lutheran the most informed and highly respected Masonic au- Masons Saved Luther's Life ... Synods a new record in ingratitude. thors. If they cannot be assumed to know the meaning of —Charlie Van Cott Freemasonry, their works should not be published by The Lutheran Publisher Masonic publishers and advertised in Masonic jour- MASONIC INSPIRATION nals.'" Arguments Answered Want copies of this answer to the Lutherans? I (See "Christians and Their filiations" and "Ancient can send you copies in bundles of 50 for one dollar. Free and Accepted Masons" for the material the LCMS From the July, 1958 Masonic Inspiration, Mor- Any amount you need. Just drop me a line. Read TO has sent to the Masons and the Southern Baptist Con- ris Plains, New Jersery. A GREAT LUTHERAN in this issue? vention. Numerous arguments are raised by Lutherans of MASONIC INSPIRATION . . . is a non-profit certain synods against Masonry. Lack of space permits monthly bulletin for Lodges to mail to members only quick coVerage. with the Tresteboard. Cost 2 cents per copy. Pub- Ancient Free and Accepted Mason 1. Worship ofthe true God, Father, Son and Holy lished by Charles Van Cott, MASONIC INSPIRA- Ghost. Belief in a Triune God is the privilege of Luther- TION, Morris Plains, N.J. Continued from Page 1 ans. Masons believe in the light as each indiVidual Ed. This entire article is in The Christian News sees it. To demand beUef in a Trinity would be to sponsor Encyclopedia, p. 1139. The first part of this article benevolent advantages to its members. The Order fre- a religion. Masonry is not a religion, unless striving for argues that Martin Luther was a Mason. quently attracts public attention by its charities, welfare the Brotherhood of Man, universal love, and the end of pi ograms, and contributions to civic enterprises. These, hatreds is religion. however, do not express the full nature and purpose of 2. SalVation other than by faith is Jesus Christ. the organization. The most common definition of Free- Masonry in its early years had many Christian influ- masonry given in Masonic writings states that it is "a ences. It is not a Christian organization. It welcomes to Tiie Intense peculiar system of morality veiled in allegoIy and illus- its Brotherhood Jews, Mormons, Unitarians, Confu- trated by symbols." Albert G. Mackey, recognized Ma- cians, Buddhists, Freethinkers—all men seeking a Hostility Of tiie sonic authority, believed that "a more comprehensive better world and giVing other men the Iight to worship Lutlieran Church- and exact definition is that it is a science which is as they please. engaged in the search after Divine Truth, and which 3. Prayers made not in the name of Jesus Christ. Missouri Synod Of employs symbolism as its method of instruction." There can be only one God and Masonry asks all men to (Macliey's ReVised Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, approach this one God as they see his manifestations. To Freemasonry p. 269). The "Preamble" or "Declaration of Principles" of pray to Jesus Christ only would be to faVor one religion— most state Grand Lodges defines the Order in words the Christian church—and Masonry is not a religion, not similar to these: a church, not the branch of any creed, but rather a Freemasonry is a charitable, beneVolent, edu- Brotherhood of all creeds seeking a better world. C. F. W. Walther cational and religious society. Its principles are 4. Its burial ritual says that non-Christians will Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of the State proclaimed as widely as men will hear. Its only enter heaVen. The one great God operating the uni- of Illinois. Continued on Page 17

"Masonry Is world with which the church ofthe Law. But the church can Word of the living God, both must be concerned that only must reckon. The church can also—and this is the Scrip- Law and Gospel. It trusts ab- those participate in Holy Anti-Christian make its peace with Freema- tural way—make painstaking solutely in the power of the Communion who have mani- efforts when deaUng with lodge Continued from Page 15 sonry. This would be tanta- Holy Spirit present in that fested an awareness ofthe in- mount to abdication. This is members to have them realize Word. In its dealings with timate fellowships involved in From Christ what the Church of England the incompatibility of mem- lodge members it is patient Holy Communion. So to deal Concordia Seminary Profes- and some American churches bership in a society which and considerate but also firm with members of a lodge like sor Paul M. Bretscher concludes have done. Or the church can ignores or even denies Jesus and never evasive. It does not Freemasonry as we have tried his "The Masonic Apostasy From follow the pattern of the Christ and in a society which in legalistic fashion force a to suggest is a trying and diffi- Christ—Another Look at Wal- Roman Catholic Church, confesses and worships Him decision, but it makes, if nec- cult task. But it is the only ton Hannah's Interpretation of which issues encyclicals and as the Savior of lost mankind essary, countless efforts to God-pleasing way. It is that FIeemasonry" (Concordia Theo- pastoral letters condemning and as the King of kings and have the individual make a because it is the way of the logical Monthly) Freemasonry and excommu- Lord of lords. To that end the decision in harmony with God's Lord Jesus Christ and the way church of Jesus Christ employs Word. As the steward of the prescribed in His Word. Freemasonry is a religious nicating every Roman Catho- lic who joins it. This is the way as its instrument the living mysteries of God, the church and moral force in the modern

One Thing Mr. Ford Forgot must realize that the "Independent" What AU Thii Means Jewish lodges, for example, the B'nai When we are thus confronted with WALTHER LEAGUE MESSENGER, November, 1924 Continued from Page 15 Bcrith, the .Abraham, the Independent the evidence of increasing domination arc composed oi German .Americans — Order of Free Sons of Israel, which of the Masonic orders by the Jew-s. we :hi- lodpr- :hal have succeeded in -nalch- were founded in .America, are closely re- realize — entirely apart from the ques- Can Freemasonry inR some oi our misiniormcd members lated to the Masonic system. Of the tion that may he raised as lo the gen- from the church which they had no! B'nai Bcrith. for example, the "Cyclope- uineness of the Protocols — that learned to love. To cite just one ex- dia of Fraternities" states that "this the international program of the Jews is Claim ample, which i? illustrative oi condition. order was of Masonic inspiration." The using these secret orders to further its IS they obtain elsewhere: The German Berith ..\braham is characterized by the own ambitions and that the greater lodge in Boston is quite evidently under same authority in this way: "Like all their success, the more dangerous their Martin Luther.^ the direction oi lew-ish officers. \ similar Hebrew- organizations, it cm- aggression will he to our own country. glance at the officers' roster i. enouRh l>odies the features of Freemasonry." But in addition to this, we also rea- to convince a skeptical reader of this Similarly, the independent Order of lize that the anti-Christian character of .•\ Su'eepinn Disciostire oi the fact. The reader is aslced to consult ttfc Free Sons of Israel is said to employ Masonry also increases to Ihc extent reords oi other German .American so- "Masonic nomenclature and outward that the Jews are successful in carrying Historical Inacciirncics -ami Mi.'ire- cieties and to find in Dr. Friedrich forms." Indeed, so close is the relation through their proposed dominion oi Ma- preseritstions contiiincii in tiiis wide- Wichtl's recent revelation: "Wcltfrei- of the Masonic bodies with these Jew- sonry. The fact that the policies and maurerei. Wtltrevolution. Weltrepublik." ish organizations, that the \"ienna Grand plans of this organization are being spread .\iasoiiic i.ef^eiid. the list of leaders in German .\merican Lodge expressly permits its members to shaped by men who are anti-Christian become affiliated with the B'nai Berithl lodges represented by Bernhard Hertz- in word and deed should be a powerful .And the B'nai Berith in order to return bach. Charles Schmiel, W. Tutlcmond. and compelling reason ior everyone Bv the compliment, declares emphatically: A. Mailaender. .^dam Licht. M. Gold- who is moved by the Spirit oi Jesus "The idea of Freemasonry oricinated schmidt, E. Cohen, all recorded as .lews, Chrisi to flee irom this polluting in- THEODORE CRAEBNER among the Jews." in addition to all this, however, we iquity iorever. w. A, M, THE CHRISTIAN NEWS If Freemasonry tenaciously clings to the dec- May 24,1993 Page 17 Ancient Free and laration that all religions are merely expres- sions of one and the same truth, then it must be happiness. (Ibid., p. 75). Accepted Mason aVoided as sub-Christian. "Raising" to the Master Mason Degree follows the opening of the third degree. A Fellow Craft desires more Continued from Page 16 The Worshipful Master declares the Lodge open "in light. After being welcomed "in the name of the Lord," he secrets are in its methods of recognition and of the name of God and the Holy saints John" and cites is led around the lodge while Various officers recite the symlwIic instruction. It is rehgious in that it teaches Psalm 133. Presentation of the candidate for Entered words of Ecciesiastes 12:1-7. The Worshipful Master "is monotheism; the volume of the Sacred Law is open Apprentice degree follows, at Which time he assures the pleased to assure" him that his obligation "will not upon its altars whenever a lodge is in session; assembly that his membership was not solicited and that conflict with your duties to God, your neighbor, or your- reverence for God is ever present in its ceremoni- he will "cheerfully conform to all the ancient usages and self" (Ibid., p. 113). The candidate swears that he will als, and to its brethren are constantly addressed established customs ofthe Fraternity." (Ibid., p. 12). The not reVeal the secrets ofFreemasonIy, will assist a needy lessons of morality; yet it is not sectarian or theo- candidate is repeatedly referred to as "a poor blind brother if it does not require injury to himself or family, logical ... (Handbools of Masonic Law, State of candidate, who has long been in darkness and now will not use the grand hailing sign unless in immediate Louisiana, p. 4a). desires to be brought from darkness to light." (Ibid., pp. danger, nor cheat nor defraud a fellow Mason, nor strike Masonic writers have not hesitated to emphasize the 13, 16,17, 18 ff). A sharp instrument is pressed against a fellow Mason, nor haVe carnal intercourse With a close religious character of the organization. .Alphonse Cerza the candidate's naked left breast, the recollection of female relative of a felloW Mason. He Will not be present declares, "Freemasonry is a fraternal organization, reli- which is to deter him from reVealing any of the secrets of at making a Mason of an old man in his dotage, an under- gious in character, based on the principle of the Father- Freemasonry, since this instrument "might be made an age youth, an atheist, an irreligious libertine, a mad- hood of God and the Brotherhood of Man, which does instrument of torture to your flesh." (Ibid., p. 14). The man, a woman, etc. He concludes: charitable work in the community and among its mem- Chaplain then implores God: To all ofthis and these I solemnly and sincerely bers, and through its teachings and ceremonials seeks to Vouchsafe "Thine aid, .Almighty Father of the promise and swear without equivocation, mental make good men better and thereby make the world a UniVerse, to this our present conVention, and grant reservation, or secret evasion in me WhateVer, better place to live in." (The New Age Magazine, that this candidate for Freemason1y may dedicate binding myself under no less penalty than haVing August, 1962, pp. 30-32). Other writers do not confine and deVote his life to Thy serVice, and become a my body severed in tWain, the parts carried North Masonry's teachings to "the world." Carl H. Claudy, in true and faithful brother among us. Endue him and South, my bowels burned to ashes and these his Introduction to Freemasonry, wrote, "Freema- with a competency of Thy diVine wisdom, that by ashes scattered to the four winds of heaVen, that sonry is neither a thing nor a ritual. It is not a lodge nor the influence of the pure principles of our art, he there might not remain trace or remembrance of so an organization. Rather it is a manner of thought, a way may be better enabled to display the beauties of Vile and peIjured a wretch as I would be should I of liVing, a guide to the City on a Hill. To make any less holiness to the honor of Thy HoIy Name. .Amen. knowingly or willingly Violate this my solemn of it is to act as a spurious Mason." (p. 70). (Ibid., p. 15). obligation as a Master Mason. So help me God and To what extent do Masonic writings aid in defining Each prayer in the ritual is met with the response, "So enable me to keep steadfast in the due perform- the Craft? Quotations from Mackay, Pike, Newton, and mote it be." After Various exchanges of diaIogue, during ance of the same. (Ibid., pp. 114-117). other authorities, from the past are often dismissed as which the Worshipful Master explains to him "briefly the Once more the candidate requests more light, and the expressing priVate interpretations rather than authen- principles of the institution," including "its religion, if secret work ofthe Craft is reVealed to him. tic explanations of the ritual. It is stated: "Masons, religion it may be called, is an unfeigned beliefin the One The second section ofthe "Raising" ceremony consists according to their background and credal affiliations, LiVing and True God" (Ibid., p. 20), the candidate is of a drama in which the candidate is cast in the role of may legitimately Vaiy enormously in their interpreta- instructed to repeat the obligation with his right hand Grand Master Hiram Abiff. The Senior Deacon speaks tion as to what these symbols mean." (Vindex, Light resting upon the Holy Bible, Square, and Compasses. "In for the candidate. King Solomon, King Hiram of Tyre, InVisihIe, p. 50). On the other hand, while interpreta- the presence of Almightly God and this worshipful Lodge and Hiram Abiff were the only three who knew the tions of the symbols may Vary, as far as the rituals state of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, erected to Him Masonic word. None ofthem could speak it except in the the facts of Masonry they will alWays be authorities. and dedicated to the Holy Saints John," he solemnly and presence of the other two. Three ruffians desired to sincerely promises and swears to keep secret the "hidden Relevant to this, The Freemasons' Guide and Com- obtain the word and attacked Hiram Abiff When he was pendium declares: mysteries of Freemasonry," concluding: alone in the Temple complex which was under construe- Brethren are fond of repeating the statement To all of this and these I sincereiy promise and Precisely where do Masonry and Christian- that there is no authorized ritual. But is not this swear without equivocation, mental reservation, ity run into open conflict? The answer is as old rather a technicality, something of a legal fiction, or secret evasion, in me whateVer; binding myself as the church: SalVation by grace through faith— a conVenient formula? ObViously it is true that, under no less a penalty than haVing my throat cut faith in Jesus Christ and Him only. with certEtin small exceptions, no Written or printed from ear to ear, my tongue torn out by its roots, and ritual has been authorized by the United Grand my body buried in the rough sands of the sea, a tion. When he refused to surrender the word, they killed Lodge, but is it not equally true to say that Grand cable-tow length from shore, where the tide ebbs him and buried his body. The Craft searched diligently Lodge Would soon assert itself, as it has done in the and flows twice in twenty-four hours, should I for him when it was discovered that he was missing. past, if the essentials of the ritual Were departed knowingly or willingly Violate this my solemn Eventually the searchers came upon the new grave and from? (Op. cit., p. 225). obligation as an Entered Apprentice. So help me succeeded in capturing the three ruffians. The ruffians The primary sources for a knowledge ofFreemasonry God and enable me to keep steadfast in the due were executed and the body then exhumed. With the are: The Landmarks, or universal customs of the Craft, performance ofthe same. (Ibid., pp. 21-22). grips of an entered Apprentice and a Fellow Craft and twenty-five of Which Were set down by Mackey; the The candidate kisses the Bible and, in response to an Senior Warden attempts to raise the "body" of Hiram in Rituals, often abbreviated in cipher code, such as the inquiry from the Worshipful Master, declares that what order that it might be given a proper burial. He informs Ecce Orienti, King Solomon and His Followers, the he desires most at this time is "light." The Worshipful King Solomon that it cannot be done because of the Acimnos Ceihpr ("Masonic Cipher"), and others for Master reads Genesis 1:1-3 and states: "In humble com- disintegrating ofthe body. Because no one knows what side degrees; the Masonic Monitoi-s, such as those by memoration of that august eVent, I Masonically say, 'Let to do, they ask the Chaplain to pray; one ofthe suggested Sickels, Webb, Simons, and Mackey's Ritualist; the there be light.'" (Ibid., p. 23). The hoodwink which the prayers concludes: Annual Grand Lodge Reports; writings by Mackey, Coil, candidate has been wearing is remoVed and he sees May he who, prone and silent before us, repre- and Pike, often quoted by Masonic writers as being au- before him the "Greater Lights" of MasonIy, the Holy sents the dread fact that all must face, rise from thorities; and the journals approved by Grand Lodges of Bible, Square and Compasses. These he is able to see this hour to work henceforth in the newness oflife. various states. None but superficial wording changes are because of the three "Lesser Lights," the Sun, Moon, and May he, gathering wisdom from our Great Light, permitted in the ritual Which is, then, never antiquated. Worshipful Master. The Worshipful Master now imparts from the beautiful symbolism of freemasoniy, and The Landmarlis, "like the laws of the Medes and the to him the secret work ofthe degree, the grips, symbols from the instructive tongues of older and wiser Persians, change not." (Haywood, op. cit., p. 56). From and signs, finally presenting him with the Lambskin of brethren, so rid himself of all that is evil and a share in the ceremonies of freemasonry "no Mason can White Leathern Apron, saying, "It is an emblem of unworthy, that he may become a Perfect .Ashlar be exempted." (Daniel Sickels, The Freemason's Moni- innocence and the badge of a freemason." (Ibid., p. 26). fitted in the quarries on earth for the Glorious tor, p. 16). The working tools of an Entered Apprentice are de- Temple above. Essential Masonry—The Blue Lodge scribed with their symbolic meaning. Of the common Impress upon him, and all ofus, the lesson of The only true Masonry that exists is that ofthe first gavel it is said: our mortality and enable us so to regulate our hVes three degrees. Mackey lists as the second Landmark of We as Free and Accepted Masons, are taught to by the teachings of Thy Word and the pure prin- Masonry: 'The diVision of symbolic masonry into three make use of it for the more noble and glorious ciples of our Order, that When at last We are degrees is a Landmark that has been better preserved purpose of divesting our hearts and consciences of summoned into the unseen, and our bodies lie cold than almost any other." (Acimnos Ceihpr, p. 43). The all the vices and superfluities oflife, thereby fitting and still and helpless, we may meet that hour in Blue Lodge, or Craft Masonry, which is constituted by our minds as living stones, for that spiritual build- the glad hope that eVen Death itself shall surren- the degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and ing, that house not made with hands, eternal in the der its hold at the magic touch of the Lion of the Master Mason, is the basis of all Masonry. Higher heaven. (Ibid., p. 29). Tribe of Judah and that His strong grip shall raise degrees are available to one "who seeks to broaden as far The second section ofthe Entered Apprentice degree us to enter into eVerlasting rest and refreshment in as possible his knowledge of those great fundamental reviews what has taken place, and closes with another the Grand Lodge on High. Amen. (Ibid., pp. 141- truths which distinguish Freemasonry." (Darrah, His- definition of the Apron: 142). tory and EVolution of Freemasonry, p. 337). Addi- The Lamb has, in all ages, been deemed an After the prayer the dead Grand Master is raised by tional degrees do not entitle the possessor to greater emblem ofinnocence. He, therefore, who wears the "the strong grip of the Left Paw, the Lion of the Tribe of authority. This is exemplified in a statement by the Lambskin as the badge of a Freemason, is con- Judah." (Ibid., p. 142). The candidate, now raised from Sovereign Grand Commander ofthe Northern Jurisdic- stantly reminded of that purity oflife and conduct the dead, is giVen the fiVe points offellowship, foot to foot, tion of the Scottish Rite: 'The Scottish Rite shares the which is so essentially necessaIy to his gaining knee to knee, breast to breast, hand to back, and mouth beliefofall Masonic organizations that there is no higher admission into the Celestial Lodge above, where to ear. In this position the Masonic word, Mahabone degree than that ofMaster Mason ... Our degrees are in the Supreme Architect of the Universe presides. (Variously spelled), is communicated to him, and only in addition to and in no way 'higher' than Blue Lodge (Ibid., pp. 33-34). this position can it be repeated. The lecture addressed to Degrees. Scottish Rite work amplifies and elaborates on The third section of the first degree gives further the new Master Mason reViews the meaning of the the lessons ofthe Craft." (The Facts of Scottish Rite, drama which has just taken place. It is followed by a p. 11). The tenets and credal affirmations of Freema- The concept of Freemasonry as the uniVersal description ofthe building of the Temple and a definition sonry, then, are to be understood from the lessons taught religion can be illustrated in many writings. of the emblems of the third degree. .Among these is the in the three Craft degrees. .Although there is in the The lecture suggested to be giVen to the Fellow .All-Seeing Eye Whom the Sun, Moon and Stars United States no supreme Grand Lodge, there are only Craft describes Masoniry: obey, and under whose Watchful care eVen comets minor wording variations among the rituals of the indi- perform their stupendous reVolutions, perVades vidual state Grand Lodges. The contents of the rituals instruction concerningthe lodge and its furnishings. The the inmost recesses ofthe Human Heart, and will are in substantial agreement, since they are based upon CoVering of the Lodge is said to be the "star-decked reward us according to our merits. (Ibid., p. 157). early rituals prepared by the founders of modern Free- heaven, where all good Freemasons hope at last to arrive The spring ofacacia reminds the Master Mason masonry. by aid of that theological ladder which Jacob, in his that there is an immortal spark in man, bearing a The Craft Degrees Vision, saw." (Ibid., p. 35). By the rough Ashlar, a stone in its natural state, "we are reminded of our rude and close affinity to the supreme intelligence of the After the lodge has been properly tiled to determine UniVerse, which shall surViVe the graVe, and neVer, whether all present are Freemasons, the lodge is opened imperfect state by nature," while the Perfect ashlar reminds us of "that state of perfection at which we hope neVer die. This strengthens him to Iook forward in the Entered Apprentice degree. When all present have with confidence and composure to a blessed im- sung the opening ode the Worshipful Master instructs to arriVe by a virtuous education, our own endeavors, and the blessing of God," (Ibid., p. 37). Further instruc- mortality, and he doubts not that in the glorious the Chaplain to lead in the following prayer: morn of resurrection his body will rise and become Most holy and glorious Lord God, the Great tions close the lodge in the Entered Apprentice Degree. Following an opening similar to that of the first as incorruptible as his soul. (Ibid., 159-160). Architect ofthe Universe, the Giver of all good gifts After more reView and instruction the Lodge is closed and graces; in Thy Name we have assembled, and degree, is the ceremonial of "passing" an Entered Ap- prentice to the degree of Fellow Craft. The obligation is "in the name ofGod and the Holy Saints John," and with in Thy Name we desire to proceed in all our doings. prayer. (King Solomon and His Followers, Missouri, Grant that the subhme principles of Freemasonry taken and the secret work ofthe second degree revealed. The candidate is instructed: p. 8). may so subdue every discordant passion within Is Masonry a Religion? us—so harmonize and enrich our hearts with Thine By Speculative Masonry we learn to subdue the passions, act upon the Square, keep a tongue of The multiplicity of Bible quotations and prayers in own love and goodness—that the Lodge at this Masonic rituals, as well as the required subscription to time may humbly reflect that order and beauty good report, maintain secrecy, and practice char- ity. It is so far interwoven with religion as to lay us the doctrines of monotheism, immortality of the soul, which reign forever before Thy Throne. Amen. and resurrection ofthe body, raise the question of whether (King Solomon and His Followers, Missouri, p. under obligations to pay the rational homage to the 8). deity which at once constitutes our duty and our Continued on Page 18 THE CHRISTIAN NEWS Ancient Free and Accepted Masons May 24,1993 Page 18 Continued from Page 17 more ancient and Masonic outlook of regarding the Volume of the Sacred Law as the repository of Freemasonry is a religion in itself. Masonic authorities symbolic truth, itself a symbol of the truth of God. agree that Masonry is saturated vvith religious beliefs (Light InVisible, p. 55). and requirements, but are reluctant to admit that many The Masonic Doctrine of God Freemasons consider it "their religion." Albert Mackey, One of the Ancient landmarks of Masonry, as enumer- best known Masonic authority, defines Masonry as "a ated by Mackey, states: "It has always been deemed science which is engaged in the search after DiVine essential that a denial of the existence of a Supreme and Truth." (ReVised Encyclopedia, p. 269). In his Ma- Super-intending Power is an absolute disqualification sonic Ritualist Mackey calls the Order "a religious for initiation. The annals of the Craft neVer yet haVe institution" (p. 44), and also explains, "A Lodge is said to furnished or could furnish an instance in which an be opened 'in the name of God and the Holy Saints John,' aVowed atheist was eVer made a Mason. The Very initia- as a declaration of the sacred and religious purposes of tory ceremoneis of the first degree forbid and preVent the our meeting." (p. 14). Henry Wilson Coil, whose Ma- possibility of so monstrous an occurrence." (Acimnos sonic Encyclopedia is of later origin and preferred by Ceihpr, pp. 173-174). To this he adds: some Masonic jurisdictions, is more expUdt than Mackey The religion of Freemasonry is cosmopolitan, in dealing with the question of whether Masonry is a UniVersal; but the required belief in God is not religion: incompatible with this uniVersality; for it is the Some attempt to aVoid the issue by saying that belief of all peoples. "Be assured," says Godfrey Higgins, "that God is equally present with the The one great God operating the uniVerse A bronze statue of the first president graces the pious Hindoo in the temple, the Jew in the syna- has a place for every one of his sons whom he Great Hall of the George Washington Masonic gogue, the Mohammedan in the mosque, and the created. To think that Christians only merit Christian in the church." (ReVised Encyclope- immortality is narrow and not in keeping with National Memorial. Photos by Bert V. Goulaitmie Washington Times dia, pp. 409-410). the omnipotent loVe of the Creator of this Vast The recurring symbol of the triangle in Masonry is not uniVerse. (Masonic Inspiration, Volume 1, No. 9 his logic is irrefutable. If true religion is thus to be to be interpreted as refendng to the Trinity of the God- July, 1955). narrowed down to salVation in no other name head. under heaVen, and St. Paul's words to this effect be While many religions of many ages and peoples Freemasonry is not a religion but is religious, understood in a spirit of bigoted literalness, then haVe conceiVed of DiVinity as a trinity, the figure seeming to belieVe that the substitution of an any such "Christian" must indeed be straining his three as a symbol of God is far older than any adjectiVe for a noun makes a fundamental differ- conscience to the breaking point by accepting ini- trinitarian doctrine. The triangle, like the circle, is ence. It would be as sensible to say that a man had tiation into the broader and deeper mysteries of without beginning or ending. One line, or two no intellect but was intellectual or that he had no Freemasonry. I, for one, can neVer understand how lines, haVe ends ... the triangle has no loose ends. honor but was honorable, (p. 512). anyone Who takes an exclusiVe VieW of Christ as the (Claudy, Introduction to Freemasonry, pp. Coil, who seems to recognize and deplore a growing only complete reVelation of God's truth can become 41-42). tendency in Masonry to become increasingly dogmatic in a Freemason Without suffering from spiritual In effect these words giVe rise to the following Ma- religious matters, also writes: schizophrenia. (Light InVisible, p. 85). sonic Interpretations: It is said that Freemasomy is not sectarian, by Joseph Fort Newton writes the dream of Masonry for For if a Christian and a Hindoo meet together in Which is meant that it has not identified itself With the future in these Words: a Lodge, and pray together to God, it is surely any Well-knoWn sect. But, if it has a religious credo, At last, in the not distant future, the old feuds of axiomatic in this atmosphere of broati charity that may it not, itself, constitute a sect to be added to the the sects Will come to an end,— eVen noW their the Christian must acknowledge that the others? . . . Perhaps the most We can say is that walls, once sky-high, are falling doWn—forgotten Hindoo's God is ultimately the same as his Freemasonry has not generally been regarded as a in the discoVery that the just, the braVe, the true- own, for the prayers in the Masonic Ritual are not, sect or denomination, though it may become so if hearted are eVeryWhere of one religion, and that of course, offered in the plural as to many gods, but its religious practices, creeds, tenets, and dogma When the masks of misunderstanding are taken off to one. Masonry is monotheistic, though wide dif- increase as much in the future as they haVe in the they know and loVe one another. Our little dogmas ferences in interpretation of God are of course past. Only by judging from external appearances will haVe their day and cease to be, lost in the Vision allowed. It is important that all critics of Masonry, and applying arbitrary gauges can we say that of a truth so great that all men are one in their as Well as Masons themselVes, should thoroughly Freemasonry is not a religion (Ibid., p. 513). littleness; one also in their assurance of the diVin- grasp this point. (Vindex, op. cit., pp. 42-43, italics Other Masonic authors also define the essence of ity ofthe soul and 'the kindness ofthe Veiled Father the author's). MasonIy as its spiritual content. Cerza Writes, concern- of men.' This position is responsible for the mandate that ing what a Mason may tell his non-Masonic friends, "You Then men of eVery name will ask when they prayer may not be offered in Jesus' name in essential can tell them that the ritual contains a philosophy of life MasonIy, the three Craft degrees. Such prayers are which provides the new member with something on Freemasonry has a religious serVice to com- permitted in some side degrees ofthe American Rite and which to build a hope that is eternal." mit the body of a deceased brother to the dust the 18th and 30th degrees ofthe Scottish Rite. (The New Age Magazine, August, 1962, pp. 30-32). whence it came and to speed the liberated spirit The Masonic Doctrine of Man Darrah maintains that "almost eVery practice Masonry back to the Great Source of Light. No teaching of Scripture does man oppose more strenu- inculcates and every truth it teaclies is of scriptural meet: Not What is your creed? But what is your ously than the doctrine of the "total depravity of man." origin," and he explains: need? High aboVe all dogmas that diVide, all bigot- This doctrine strikes at man's pride and achievement Recognizing this fact, it can be readily under- ries that blind, all bitterness that beclouds, will be nad thus is declared incompatible with the spirit of Ma- stood why many members of the Craft regard the Written the simple words of the one eternal reli- sonry: Fraternity so religiously that they are willing to gion— the Fatherhood of God, the brotherhood of Nor does Masonry teach that human nature is chance HeaVen in their fidelity to its principles. man, the moral law, the golden rule, and the hope a depraved thing, like the ruin of a once proud (Op. cit., p. 293). of a Hfe eVerlasting! (The Builders, pp. 246-247). building. Many think that man was once a perfect Because of the very fact that Freemasonry purports to Masonic View of Scripture being but that through some unimaginable moral assume a religious posture and perform the f\Inctions of Although the Bible is one of the "Great Lights" of catastrophe he became corrupt into the last moral a church it becomes morally and theologically necessary Masonry, its place in the Craft is as "a symbol ofthe will fibre of his being, so that, without some kind of for the Christian to inquire whether the Craft's tenets of God, however it may be expressed. "Therefore, what- supernatural or miraculous help from outside him and dogma are compatible with the Christian faith. It is ever to any people expresses that will may be used as a he can never of himself do, or say, or think, or be evident that the more thoroughly the Gospel of salvation substitute for the Bible in a Masonic Lodge." (Mackey's aught but that which is deformed, vile, and hide- by the Grace of God is understood, the more imperative ReVised Encyclopedia, p. 133). The prescribed "Vol- ous. Those wbo hold to this kind of anthropology such inquiry becomes. ume of Sacred Law" to be found in the lodge may be the usually claim to know how supernatural help may If Freemasonry tenaciously clings to the declaration Koran, or any other book held sacred hy ancient religions. be brought to bear on that corruption which is that all religions are merely expressions of one and the When the Bible is used in the Blue Lodge, the name of human nature, and they usually believe them- same truth, then it must be avoided as sub-Christian. Jesus is deleted, as "a slight, but necessary modification," selves to be of the party which controls that help, Dr. Mackey defined Masonry's position in the words: lest the non-Christian be offended. The Landmarks and they also usually believe that only those who If Freemasonry were simply a Christian insti- proVide only that "a Book of the Law, a religious code of accept supernatural intervention according to their tution, the Jew and the Moslem, the Brahman and some kind, purpoiling to be an exemplar ofthe revealed qwn formula have any hope whatever of escaping the Buddhist, could not conscientiously partake of will of God, shall form an essential part ofthe furniture from the original sin into which every man is born its illumination. But its universality is its boast. In of every lodge." (Acimnos Ceihpr, p. 174). Mackey's ... It is true tbat the lesson in the Third Degree is its language citizens of every nation may converse; inference that only Masonry can provide fiill divine truth a lesson of regeneration: the candidate comes as at its altar men of all religions kneel; to its creed bears out the Masonic view that the Bible is only a one whose old self must die in order that a new self disciples of every faith may subscribe. (ReVised symbol. Ofthe initiate he says: may be born; but this new life into which the candidate is born is not in any sense supernatural. Encyclopedia, pp. 200-201). There be stands without our portals, on the The concept of Freemasonry as the uniVersal religion (Haywood, The Great Teachings of Masonry, threshold of this new Masonic life, in darkness, pp. 138-139). can be illustrated in many writings. The lecture sug- helplessness, and ignorance. Having been wander- gested to be given to the Fellow Craft describes Masonry: ing amid the errors and covered only with the The lecture to the Entered Apprentice recognizes the It makes no profession of Christianity, and wars pollutions ofthe outer and profane world, be comes need for a change in man, but denies tbat direct interven- not against sectarian creeds or doctrines, but looks inquiringly to our doors, seeking the new birth, and tion of God is necessaIy: forward to the time when the labor of our ancient asking a withdrawal of the veil which conceals The Rough Ashlar is a stone, as taken from the brethren shall be symbolized by the erection of a divine Tinith from his uninitiated sight. (Masonic quarry, in its rude and natural state. By it we are spiritual temple whose moral grandeur shall be Ritualist, p. 23). reminded of our rude and imperfect state by na- commensurate with civihzation; a Temple in which ture. The Perfect Ashlar is a stone made ready by MasonIy poses as a system teaching man's whole duty there shall be one altar and but one worship; one to God and fellow man and nowhere admits to anything the bands of the workmen, to be adjusted by the common altar of Masonry, on which the Veda, beside its own philosophy as necessary to spiritual life. working tools ofthe Fellow Craft, and reminds us Sutra, Zend-Avesta, Koran, and Holy Bible shall 'This conception is repugnant to the convinced Christian of that state of perfection at which we hope to lie untouched by sacrilegious hands, and at whose who believes that the Holy Ghost guides the Church into arrive by a virtuous education; our own endeavors, shrine the Hindoo, the Persian, the Assyrian, the all truth," writes Father Hannah, and he points to how and the blessing of God. (Louisiana Masonic Chaldean, the Egyptian, the Chinese, the Moham- confusing this must be in the case of a clergyman sub- Monitor, pp. 58-59). inedan, the Jew, and the Christian may kneel and scribing to the Masonic philosophy: Man's "rude and imperfect state" is accidental to his with one united Voice celebrate the praises of the The ordinary Christian who knows that his nature; Sir John Cockburn writes: "Pessimism has no Supreme Architect of the UniVerse. (Louisiana vicar is a Mason may therefore be entitled to doubt place in Masonry. Evil is merely matter not yet spiritu- Masonic Monitor, p. 99). whether the revelation that is preached from the ally enlightened." (Op. cit., p. 29). Perfectability lies Even more pointed than the writings of Mackey and pulpit is after all complete, as bis pastor finds it within man's own power, the Mason is told: other "standard" authoInties of Masonry is a book writ- expedient or even possible to supplement it with The perfection is already within. All that is ten in defense of Masonry by an English author who hidden mysteries obtainable only in the lodge. required is to remove the roughness, the excres- identifies himself only as "Vindex." He speaks of the (Darkness Visible, p. 45) cences, "divesting: our hearts and consciences of all founding of the Masonic Lodge as "charged with Pente- Father Hannah's fears are realized in the reply given vices and superfluities of life" to show forth the costal significance." Referring to Father Walton Han- to his book by "Vindex," a Masonic clergyman: perfect man and Mason within. Thus the gavel nah's expose' of Freemasonry which rocked England, There is, however, a certain difference in em- becomes also the symbol of personal power. (Claudy, Vindex writes: phasis and interpretation of the Word of God be- op. cit., p. 51). Christianity, he says again and again, is an tween the Church and the Craft. Wilmshurst would carry this teaching to the fullest exclusive faith. Christ opened the only gate of This difference, however, is steadily and signifi- extent: heaven to man below. All prayer not offered in the cantly lessening, as the Church, in the light of Man also contains within him a life-force, a name of Christ, he boldly proclaims, is idolatrous. much knowledge gained from higher criticism and "vital and immortal principle" as Masonry calls it, He is our only mediator and advocate, and the only from an increasing breadth of outlook, is moving which has not yet expended to full deVelopment in revelation of divine truth. In His name only is steadily away from her earlier and now untenable him, and indeed in many men is scarcely active at salvation to be found. IfMr. Hannah is right, hehas position of looking in the Bible as Uteral fact and all. Man, too, has that in him enabling him to certainly proved his case. GiVen these premises. history, and is moving toward the broader and Continued on Page 19 Masonry denies that regeneration is only by THE CHRISTIAN NEWS Ancient Free and Accepted Masons May 24,1993 Page 19 the Spirit of God working through the Means of Continued from Page 18 Grace. It denies the distinctiVe character of the through a quasi-regeneration drama to symbolize his Bible as God's Word. It ignores the depraVity of "new birth." evolVe from the stage of the mortal animal to a man and denies the consequences of sin, mak- Masonry denies that regeneration is only by the spirit being immortal, super-human, godlike... Human ing irreleVant the deity of Christ and His substi- of God working through the Means of Grace. It denies the eVolution can be accelerated if not at present in the tutionaiy suffering the death. distinctive character of the Bible as God's Word. It mass of humanity, yet in suitable indiViduals. ignores the depravity of man and denies the conse- Human nature is perfectible by an intensiVe proc- maintain the secrets of the Order. The candidate for quences of sin, making irrelevant the deity of Christ and ess of purification and initiation. membership or for higher degrees inVokes the help of God His substitutionary suffering the death. It repudiates as (Tlie Masonic Initiation, pp. 27-28). to keep him "steadfast in the due performance of the narrow intolerance salvation by grace alone, through Masonry and Eternal SalVation same," agreeing to such penalties for perjuring himself as faith in the blood of Christ. It binds men With oaths more The Landmarks of Masonry, as summarized by "haVing my throat cut from ear to ear, my tongue torn out sacred than allegiance to church, family, nation. It buries Mackey, declare: by its roots," (King Solomon and his Followers, Mis- every one of its members in good standing With the SubsidiaIy to this belief in God, as a Landmark souri, p. 22), "haVing my left breast torn open, my heart expressed confidence in reunion in the Grand Lodge of the Craft, is the belief in a resurrection to a and Vitals taken thence and giVen as prey to the beasts of Above. future life. This Landmark is not so positiVely the field and the Vultures of the air" (Ibid., p. 70), and Ignoring the innate sinfi11ness of the human heart. impressed on the Candidate by exact Words as the "haVing my body seVered in twain, the parts carried Masonry addresses itself to the perfecting of the natural preceding; but the doctrine is taught by Very plain North and South, my bowels burned to ashes..." (Ibid., state of man. The Will of God is not the perfecting of man's implication, and runs through the Whole symbol- p. 116). natural state but the redeeming of it from sin and eternal ism of the Craft. To belieVe in MasoI1ry, and not to The majority of Masons deny that these penalties are damnation. God has established the preaching of the belieVe in resurrection. Would be an absurd anom- intended seriously; they are considered by many as only Gospel, not to effect civic righteousness, but to graft man aly . .. (Acimnos Ceihpr, p. 174). a means of impressing the need of secrecy upon the into the Body of Christ. A Report to the Assembled It is at this point that the greatest diVergence between candidates. Masonic writers, on the other hand, do not Clergy of the Syrian Orthodox Church of North the reVealed Truth of God's Word and the religion of regard the oaths so lightly. Wilmshurst sees them as Africa, which met in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 1961, Masonry arises. If there is a "resurrection to a future binding eVen into eternity: states: hfe," there must be a criterion of judgment upon which You cannot cast away your stone. It is yourself. Unconcerned with sin, redemption, grace, and You cannot eVade it and its responsibilities by without the credentials and power to act as a moral this "future life" is granted. The Masonic rituals abound resigning or remaining absent from the brother- guide, the Craft offers religious instruction to in phrases such as "the pass of a pure life" and "reward hood in which you first acquired the stone. Once a Christians, Jews, Mohammedans, etc. It is trans- according to our merits." A former Master Mason and Mason, always a Mason: in this world and in worlds parently clear that it has no real care for Christ, Lodge Chaplain, writing in the Lutheran Witness, to come. You stand solemnly and eternally conVe- since it encourages non-Christians to follow their states: nanted, not only to yourself and your Brotherhood, own religions and that, in them and what the Precisely Where do Masoniy and Christianity but to the Eternal Sacred Law, to proceed with Lodge teaches, non-Christians may stand before run into open conflict? The ansWer is as old as the your Masonic work to the end. TTiat Law does not God proud of their achieVements and Without fear church: salVation by grace through faith—faith in permit you to stultify an obligation deliberately of their fate in the future life. "If any member ofthe Jesus Christ and Him only. Masonry assumes the made upon It, eVen if made ignorantly. Ignoran- fraternity honestly acknoWledges his faith in a natural goodness of man, Christianity teaches man's tia Legis neminem elccusat. There may be that Supreme Being, Whose laW is his guide," Writes utter depraVity . .. The Church of Jesus Christ is in you which was not ignorant, and that guided Brother J.T. Thorp, "and striVes honestly to liVe by founded on the rock of Peter's confession 'Thou art you to undertake that obligation. Descendit his faith, we care not what the other articles of his the Christ, the Son of the liVing God." It is not e'coelo. Know thyself! (Op. cit., p. 153). creed may be, for we belieVe that when summoned dependent upon the Wisdom of man. EVen though Masonic apologist, Vindex, intimates that if the pen- from this sublunary abode, he Will be receiVed into that Wisdom may haVe existed before the birth of alties for breakingthese oaths are not exacted in this life, the all-perfect, glorious celestial lodge aboVe, for Christ and comes from the mouth of Solomon him- they shall be in that which is to come. He further states he Will, by his life, haVe made of earth the porch- self—if it does not point us to Jesus Christ, it is that, should the faithless Mason betray his oath, "by his Way into heaVen." (The Royal Arch Mason, Vol- trash and garbage. (Joseph K. Peaslee, "Is Masonry sacred compact with .Almighty God in the Lodge he ume V, No. 9, March, 1957). Heresy," June 26, 1962). deliberately forfeits all hopes of salVation by his heinous Truth and error cannot be mixed without compromise The emblems of tlie Master Mason, as described in the crime." (Op. cit., pp. 60-61). This, of course, is the pact of truth, as well as the threat of its eventual destruction. ritual, include this definition: agreed upon in the oath, for "tidal sands" where he agrees That is why Scripture warns repeatedly against becom- The SWord, pointing to a Naked Heart, demon- to be buried were in medieVal days regarded as unconse- crated ground in which the eternally-lost were to be ing identified with anything that blurs the unique char- strates that justice will sooner or later overtake us; acter of Jesus Christ as true God, or blunts the Chris- and although our thoughts, words, and actions buried. Vindex further states that breach ofthe oath is in tian's witness to that truth. EVery moVement which may he hidden from the eyes of man, yet that .All- a sense "the ultimate sin against the Holy Ghost," add- ing, "I weigh my words carefully in making this graVe would lead men to God while deliberately excluding the Seeing Eye Whom the Sun, Moon and Stars obey, saVior must be avoided as apostasy. "He that honoreth and under whose watchful care eVen comets per- accusation." (Ibid., p. 61). The Christian's Duty not the Son, honoreth not the Father which hath sent form their stupendous revolutions, pervades the Him," John 5:23. "Whosoever shall deny Me before inmost recesses of the human heart and will re- In discussing the Christian's responsibility regarding men," Jesus said, "him will I also deny before My Father ward us according to our merits. (King Solomon membership in the Masonic Lodge, a primary considera- which is in heaven," Matthew 10:33. and His Followers, Missouri, p. 157). tion, frequently ignored, is that most Masons are igno- Identification with any movement which offers an The conviction that all members ofthe Masonic Lodge rant of the teachings and tenets of official Masonry. shall be received into the Grand Lodge Above because of approach to God outside of Jesus Christ cannot be justi- Masonic leaders and writers recognize this. The pub- fied for the sake of prestige or status, career advance- their expressed belief in God and immortality ofthe soul lisher of Masonic Inspiration complains: is taught frequently in Masonic writings: ment or business adVantage, social opportunity or chari- Masonry contains within itself a potent threat table endeaVor. St. Paul writes to the Galatians, "How- Death is a part of the Divine Plan; hut not the against its Very existence. I refer to the great beit, then, when ye knew not God, ye did serVice to them end of that plan; and He who paints the wayside number of Masons who do not haVe the faintest which by nature are no gods. But now, after that ye haVe flowers, and lights the evening star, and observes significance of what the Craft means. Even in known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye the fall of the sparrow, and numbers the hairs of sophisticated big city Lodges I meet these Breth- again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye our heads, will not desert man, the highest order of ren. They have taken their three degrees. They desire again to be in bondage?" (4:8-9) creation, in the hotir of his earthly dissolution. wear a pin. They attended communications as Whether a person is inclined to regard Masoniy as (Grand Master's Address, Official Masonic often as possible. But the real import of Masonry is "religion" or ''religious," by its symbols, ceremonies and Record, Second Annual Exposition, Benefit of as remote to their minds as Madagascar . . . Ma- Ma.sonic Free Hospitals, 1923, p. 65). sonry is an overarching truth which claims the full It can be readily recognized that the great Writings of the fact that Christians have criticized the devotion of its members. We sure need a lot of minority of professing Christians in the world Masonic burial ritual because it says that non-Christians education among Brothers. (Charles Van Cott, op. haVe affiliated with churches which stand in will enter heaVen, Charles Van Cott replies: cit.. Volume 1, Number 6, April, 1955). opposition to the religious involvement of Free- The one great God operating the uniVerse has a Steinmetz, writing of the symbolism of Masonry, masonry. place for eVery one of his sons whom he created. To recognizes that "the average Mason is lamentably igno- think that Christians only merit immortality is rant of the real meaning of Masonic Symbology and narrow and not in keeping with the omnipotent features, it persuades the Christian to lay down his only knows little of its esoteric teaching." (Freemasoniy: Its lawful weapon—bearing witness to the truth that "By loVe ofthe creator of this Vast universe. (Masonic Hidden Meaning, p. 5). If ignorance ofthe meaning of Inspiration, Volume 1, No. 9, July, 1955). grace are ye saVed through faith; and that not of your- Freemasonry is characteristic of lodge members, it as- selVes; it is the gift of God, not of worlis, lest any man Explaining the immortality Views ofthe ancient mys- suredly is true also of applicants for lodge membership. teries, the Theosophists, the East mystics, and others, should boast," Ephesians 2:8-9. For this reason: A former lodge chaplain writes: One startling fact emerges, which should make John Cockburn declares, "There is room In the many Now I am convinced that devout Lutheran men mansions of Masonry for each and all of these." (Op. Cit., eVery Christian Mason more than a little thought- apply for lodge membership, little realizing that ful. No Church that has seriously investi- p. 29). The Masonic Funeral SerVice, appearing in the they are compromising their faith in Jesus Christ. gated the religious teachings and implica- Standard Monitor, without reference to Jesus Christ, This is not their fault. First of all, they have no way speaks of being"found worthy" to be translated "from the tions of Freemasonry has eVer yet failed to of knowing the teachings of Masonry until after condemn it. (Italics by author. Darkness Vis- terrestrial to the celestial lodge." (p. 206). It offers the they are in the lodge. Secondly, not all pastors counsel that as death approaches, "a well-spent life ible, p. 78). preach the Word of God with such Vigor and clarity Masonic writer Cerza lists among those church bodies affords the only consolation." (p. 214). The prayer at the that men will recognize the conflict of thought be- which haVe officially disapproved of Masonry: the Ro- graVe petitions God to receiVe the mourners into His tween the church and the lodge. (Lutheran Wit- eVerlasting Kingdom, "the just reward of a pious and man Catholic Church, The Lutheran Church-Missouri ness. Volume 81, Number 13, June 26, 1962). Synod, the Church ofthe Latter-day Saints, the Society virtuous life." (pp. 225-226). The Lambskin is placed into Walton Hannah, in his study of Freemasonry called of Friends, Jehovah's Witnesses, SeVenth lbay AdVent- the casket with these words: Darkness Visible, declares: When presented to our deceased brother, he was ists, the Church of the Brethren, the Greek Orthodox The fact that most Masons do not see the third Church, some other Lutheran Churches, and some Bap- admonished to let its pure and spotless surface be degree ceremonies in this light (a sacramental to him an ever present reminder of a "purity of life tist groups. (.Anti-Masonry, pp. 78-127). To these may baptism-experience) may completely exonerate be added the Orthodox Presbj^erian church, the Czech- and conduct," a neVer-ending argument for nobler them from the sin of willfully partaking in what deeds, for higher thoughts, for greater achieve- MoraVian Bretheren of North America, the Christian the early Fathers of the Church stigmatized in Reformed Church, and others. It can be readily recog- ments; which admonition I believe he has faithfully contemporary mystery-religions as satanic paro- kept, and will receive his just reward (p. 241). nized that the great majority of professing Christians in dies of (Christian worship, but it does not exonerate the world have affiliated with churches which stand in Coil, in his Masonic Encyclopedia draws this con- Masonry, which after all claims (in the first degree clusion: opposition to the religious involvement of Freemasonry. Tracing Board Lecture) that its usages and cus- The Rise of Freemasonry A man may be born without rehgious ceremony; toms approximate to those of ancient Egypt. Un- Few serious Masonic writers give credence to the he may be married without religious ceremony; he awareness of an obVious and logical interpretation may live a long life without religious ceremony; hut legends ofthe founding of Masonry in antiquity, or, as a does not ipso facto make the interpretations false few have maintained, at the Creation ofthe world. Most one moment comes to every man when he feels the (p. 33). need of that missing thing—when he comes to do, however, admit to a gradual development of the The entirfe Masonic ritual is cast in a rehgious mold. Masonic philosophical and religious tenets from the crossing into the great beyond. Freemasonry has a The ritual provides for an altar, a chaplain, and religious religious service to commit the body of a deceased ancient Egyptian mysteries, the Greek mysteiy-relig- services. It accepts all "Volumes of Sacred Law" as of ions, the Roman mysteries, and the Jewish Kabbalists brother to the dust whence it came and to speed the equally divine origin. The lodge is "erected to God" and liberated spirit back to the Great Source of Light. and the Gnostics. The two latter groups were made up of "dedicated to the Holy Saints John." The candidate as- early syncretists who sought to find a common ground for Many Freemasons make this flight with no sumes his obligation "in the presence of Almighty God" all races by developing a religious system which harmo- other guarantee of a safe landing than their belief and prays "So help me God and enable me to keep nized into monotheism all the systems of religious in the religion of Freemasonry. If that is a false steadfast in the performance of the same." thought. hope, the Fraternity should abandon funeral serv- He receives an apron, "the emblem of innocence" to Modern Freemasonry is the outgrowth of thirteenth ices and devote its attention to activities where it is constantly remind him "ofthe purity of life" essential to sure of its ground and its authority, (p. 512). gaining admission "into the Celestial Lodge Above." In and fourteenth century associations Which attempted to The Masonic Oaths the third degree, still seeking "more Light" after being protect the craftsmanship ofthe stone-mason's art. "Ac- Masonic rituals employ frequent long oaths in order to instructed in the first two degrees, he is conducted Continued on Page 20 Ancient Free and Accepted l\/lasons THE CHRISTIAN NEWS Documents Supplied to May 24,1993 Page 20

Continued from Page 19 Where the Bible is used exclusively, it is a book of Law, Baptist l4ome l\/[ission a guide to the living, an inspiration because of the cepted" members (non-Masons) were receiVed in the example of the people who Walk across its pages. The beginning of the seventeenth century, but it Was not Board on Masonry central message of the Scripture—salvation through until 1717 that Lodges of "speculative" Masons Were formed by men Who saw symbolic meaning in the Ma- faith in Jesus Christ—is entirely omitted in any use of son's working tools. Already in 1723 the prevailing the Bible by lodge organizations. Christian orientation of Masonry was challenged, and in The Doctrine of God It is pointed out that there is one God, by Whatever 1813 totally removed, to be reinserted later in diluted 'Uh; I.L-T11EK.\.\ OILKCll-.MI.SSi H'RI SVNi >D ..i.t.3 r^utn Kirk\v..id Ri,ad name He is called. Where this God is assumed to be the form of certain "side" degrees. From England Freema- ^.um L..U1,.. :.)i.ssi,iin...;i2J-72't.T sonry came to the United States in the early part ofthe '.14 >.r.,i...«l,, Jd.i\ 4.i-+452 Luihirran ST!. "Christian" God, only His creative and preserVatiVe acts April 12. 1993 eighteenth century. CoiniRiv.Min on 4 Ir^anizarioos may be noted. He may be a "Redeemer," but only in the Masonic Structure in the United States sense of having given man a guide b y W h i c h m a n c a n Each state in the Union has its own Grand Lodge, as prove himself to be a child of God. The Reverend Herman otten does also the District of Columbia. These are jurisdic- Lutliermn News, Inc. The Doctrine of Man tionally independent but recognize each other. Attempts lioute I, Boi 309A Man is vieWed as being inherently good and is as- at uniting them further have not been successful. The New Haven. MO 63068 sumed to be perfectible, either through a process of appended Scottish Rite and American Rite are nation- Dear Heverend Otten: initiation (refinement) or through development of char- ally organized, but do not constitute official Masoniy. ity. Such progress shall eventually become uniVersal as ln response to your request, I have enciosed a copy of the study document "(Tiiris- moVes to The General Regulations recognize initiation as the tiana and Their AfTihations." Tliis material was developed in the mid-1970's by Dr. man closer becoming a superior being. only entry into the Craft. Freemasonry does not offer life Pilii L-ocilhaaa, the former Executive Director of the commission on Organizations. The Doctrine of Salvation—Heaven or health insurance as do many other fraternal organiza- You will note tiiat it was updated moat recentiy in the summer of 1990. We beiieve tiiat the format of tliia document with its questions for discuaaion. its numerous SalVation is either uniVersal for all who believe in a tions. A local lodge may, if it finds it desirable, haVe sick Scripture references, and the frequent quotations of a variety of lodge rituaia Supreme Beingor reserved only for the Virtuous. HeaVen and death benefit fi1nds. There are, howeVer, homes for provides an excellent resource for pastors to tise with the iay leaders of their is an extension of the brotherhood (sisterhood)—the congregations in order to implement The Lutheran Church—Miasouri Synod's the aged and orphaned maintained by the Order. Mem- BibUcal position regarding memiiersliip in lodge organizationa. place Where all sincere members Will gather for bership is restricted to males who haVe reached their eternity. . . . " twenty-first year, resident in their state for at least a l liave alao enclosed the apeciiic evaluation of the rituals of the first three degrees of Freemasonry wiiich tliis oflice provides. You may already liave a copy of tliis Section III year, a sound mind and body, and morally upright. An material in your illeB since it was prepared a numiier of years ago. There lias been LODGES: INITIATED Vs. SOCIAL applicant must profess belief in God. Membership is by no need to malte any major changes in tliiB material since the rituals of Free- MEMBERSHIPS application only and must neVer be solicited: masonry have not lieen changed in any substantial way down tlirough the years. ... Concern for a unified Witness to an undiminished It shall be unmasonic for any Master Mason to l might point out tliat when the Baptiat Bome Mission Board was in the process of Gospel led The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, in its solicit any Entered Apprentice, FelloWcraft or Mas- coming to s decision with regard to the practice of Freemasonry among pasters and members of the Southern Baptist convention, an individual from the church's 1977 convention at Dallas, Texas, to reaffirm its position ter Mason to petition for the degree in any of the headquarters contacted tliis office and was aent a copy of our evaluation of Ancient regarding religious lodges by adopting unanimously the bodies recognized in this Grand Jurisdiction (Ma- Free and Accepted Maaonjy. following resolution: sonic Code of Iowa, p. 137) Finally, I have enclosed a copy of an address given in 1987 te the Masonic Grand Whereas, The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod Negroes are not to become members of the Masonic Masters of North America conference, l thought you might be interested in the has declared itself to be firmly opposed to all Order. Various reasons are giVen for this. One Writer material quoted from a letter tliat was apparently written by Dr. Loclihaaa to accompany the LCMS evaluation of Freemasonry that had been sent te Mr. William- societies, lodges, and associations of unchristian explains, rather weakly: and antichristian character (Handbook 14.01 and There are excellent reasons for this apparent 14.03); and race discrimination which only a Mason can fiilly God's blessings upon your efforte te inform as many as possible in the Southern Baptist Convention about the uncllhstian teacliings of Freemasoniy. Whereas, No changes have been made, not even by so-called "animal" lodges, that would remove I, for one, can neVer understand how anyone Sincerely in Christ, the Synod's objections and that would permit a who takes an exclusive View of Chirst as the change in the Synod's position; and only complete revelation of God's truth can Whereas, A common witness against such or- become a Freemason without suffering from KMon K Winlter Executive Director ganizations is vital to maintain the unity of faith spiritual schizophrenia. and life within the synodical fellowship; and Whereas, Congregations that diregard these understand; suffice it to say here that, feelings The Rev. Eldon K. Winker, Executive Director Bylaws of tlie Synod— being what they are, such a step would endanger Commission on Organizations 1. present a false Witness to the World and the harmony ofthe lodge, which is a Very primary The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod to their own members; consideration. Secondly, although Negroes today 1333 South Kirkwood Road 2. undermine and weaken the witness of may technically fulfill the Masonic requirement of St. Louis, Missouri 63122-7295 others that seek this position out of a sincere being "free," their subordinate economic, educa- 314/965-9000 concern for the spiritual life and welfare of tional, and cultural position is such that they Notes for Using This Material God's people; hardly fulfill the spirit of that prerequisite to initia- This material is intended to serve as a kind of Leader's 3. cause confiision and uncertainty among tion. (Vindex, op. cit., pp. 85-86). Guide to assist in the study of those organizations in those who hold or seek membership in such Negroes have, however, organized "clandestine" Ma- which participation by a Christian would result in a organizations in that they are accepted in sonic lodges, the most influential of whicli is the Prince compromise of one's Christian witness. The leader may some LCMS congregations and rejected by Hall affiliation. want to prepare outlines or worksheets for each member others; therefore be it In addition to the "side" or "higher" degrees of the of the discussion group. The contents of this material ResolVed, That congregations in the Synod be en- Scottish Rite and the American Rite, Masonry maintains may be summarized, reproduced, or adapted to suit the couraged to study and discuss Art. XIV of the synodical a number of affiliate organizations for the wives and circumstances. It is requested, however, that no state- Handbook together with materials aVailable from the children of Masons, and for other close relatives as well. ments be taken out of context. synodical Commission on Organizations; and he it fur- Orders which are not Masonic, but whose membership is Suggested answers to some questions are given in ther composed strictly of Masons, have organized for special parentheses in order to help the leader understand the ResolVed, That all members ofthe Synod be strongly interest groups. Members of the Masonic Lodge total intent of the questions. Bible references should be em- urged to follow the guidelines of Art. XIV out of love and approximately four million in the United States and are phasized and discussion questions should be answered concern for other members of the Synod and from a estimated at about six million in the world. Membership in the light of Biblical imperatives. desire to help provide common witness to the World; and has been slowly declining in the United States in recent Additional information regarding any of the subjects be it finally years. treated may be requested from: ResolVed, That District officials be reminded of their Prepared by: The Commission on Organizations responsibility to exercise proper Christian, eVangelical Reverend Philip Lochhaas, The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod supervision and discipline in such cases wherever such Executive Secretary 1333 South ICirkwood Road leadership is required. . . . Commission on Organizations St. Louis, Missouri 63122-7295 Section IV The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod The purpose and duties ofthe Commission on Organi- LODGES: LUTHERANS AND OTHER 1333 South ICirkwood Road zations are described in Section X of the Bylaws of The CHRISTIANS St. Louis, Missouri 63122 Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod (synodical Hand- By einphasizingjoint programs and close cooperation book), the authority under which the Commission func- with the churches, some lodges assume the posture of tions. allies ofthe Church and channels through which expres- The purpose ofthe Commission on Organizations is to sion can be given to Christian service. Many lodge Chiristians and "assist the pastors and the congregations of the Synod officials seem surprised that there should be any Chris- in fulfilling their commitment to witness publicly tian opposition to the religious involvement of the lodges. and privately to the one and only Gospel set foI-th in Some are inclined to think of such opposition as mini- Tiieir Affiiiations the Holy Scriptures" (10.01 b) mal—coming from a few non-representative church bod- (A few exceiTJts from a 49-page document Christians and Their Affiliations ies. The witness of the various church bodies has not available from Commission on Organizations, been consolidated and, therefore, has had little impact Section i upon the lodges. Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, 1333 S. SCRIPTURAL IMPERATIVES After an intensive study of Freemasonry and its Kirkwood Road, St. Louis, Missouri 63122- ... It is obvious that racist or criminal organizations relationship to the Christian faith, howeVer, the interna- 7295.) are incompatible with the Christian's profession of faith. tionally known lodge authority, Walton Hannah, arriVed Adapted July, 1990, from the original work There are, however, other organizations with noble at a different conclusion, especially as regards Freema- prepared by Dr. Philip Lochhaas, former Ex- purposes and commendable programs that nevertheless sonry: require that their members subscribe to a religious ecutive Director, Commission on Organiza- One staIlling fact emerges, which should make tions. understanding and practice that compromises a Chris- the Christian Mason more than a little thoughtful. tian's profession of faith. Among these are some of the No church that has seriously inVestigated A study of those organizations and move- lodges that involve themselves quite seriously in religion ments in which participation by a Christian the religious teachings and implications of ofthe universalist-unitarian kind. It is quite disturbing Freemasonry has eVer yet failed to condemn would compromise the Christian's witness to to Christians to discover that such religious involvement it. (Darkness Visible, page 78, emphasis is au- the exclusive and the distinctive character of makes it impossible for them to identify themselves with thor's) the Christian faith. organizations that they would otherwise wish tojoin. Considering how many Christian denominations, Ro- Section I In the final analysis, there is only one "Standard of man Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox, have taken a SCRIPTURAL IMPERATIVES Evaluation" for a Christian who is contemplating mem- specific stand regarding lodges, inquiI-y is frequently Section ll bership in any organization—"Can membership be car- made why all Christian bodies have not done so. ried out to the glory of God, and will it allow me to give It must be realized, first of all, that denominations in LODGES: GENERAL CONCERNS witness to the exclusive and distinctive character of the Section III the liberal or modernist Protestant tradition may see no Christian faith?" (See 2 Corinthians 5:15; Galatians conflict between their interpretation of Christianity as LODGES: INITIATED VS. SOCIAL 2:20-21) MEMBERSHIPS primarily an ethical system and the religious involve- Section II ment of the lodges. For them Christianity is not the Section IV LODGES: GENERAL CONCERNS exclusive faith that the words of Jesus and the apostles LODGES: LUTHERANS . . . The universalist-unitarian religious posture as- recorded in the Scriptures teach it to be. (See J o h n 14:6; AND OTHER CHRISTIANS sumed by many ofthe lodges becomes evident especially 1 J o h n 2:23) Second, many Protestant bodies are organ- Section V in regard to four cardinal doctrines: ized around a congregational polity that permits great MANY MOVEMENTS AND ORGANIZATIONS The Doctrine of Scripture latitude in both doctrine and practice. Third, some de- Section VI The Bible is considered as merely one of the world's nominations apparently assume that the religious ten- THE NEW RELIGIONS sacred books, inspired in the same sense that all are. In ets ofthe lodges are Christian wherever lodges are found Section VII some lodge organizations, when a person of a non- in a Christian nation, especially since most lodge mem- CHRISTIAN CONFESSION AND Christian religion is being initiated, the Bible is replaced bers would claim some identity with a Christian denomi- UNDIVIDED WITNESS FOR CHRIST on the altar by the sacred book ofthe initiate's religion. Continned on Page 21 THE CHRISTIAN NEWS Christians and Their Affiliations No church that has seriously inVestigated May 24,1993 Page 21 the i-eligious teachings and implications of Free- Continued from Page 20 masonry has eVer yet failed to condemn it. declared myself in a newspaper interview and in a pubUc nation. Finally, some large denominations are staffed by address early in 1926." lodge-member ministers and are dependent upon lodge- Ancient Arabic Order Nobles ofthe Mys- Q.: "Do you believe in life after death?" member benefactors to the extent that an eValuation of tic Shrine (a.k.a. "Shriners") A.: "I do not. For this reason I requested that a funeral the religious inVolVement of the lodges is quite Prince Hall Masonry oration once delivered by Robert IngersoU, the profes- unlikely.. . . Order ofthe Eastern Star sional agnostic, be recited over my remains." The position and Dractice ofThe Lutheran Church- Order of Rainbow Q.: "What other ceremonies were conducted on that Missouri Synod continues to be one of strong opposi- Order of Job's Daughters occasion?" tion to lodge membership as stated in Section X of the Order of De Molay A.: "My body was buried with the full Masonic ritual." Bylaws of the Synod. The Bylaws state in part: Q.: 'The Masonic ritual, I understand, designates a The Synod has declared itself firmly opposed to Etc. (many additional orders and affili- happy reunion ofour souls vvith our departed friends and all societies, lodges, and organizations of an un- ates) their enjoyment ofheaVen as 'the just rewards of a pious christian or antichristian character. .Also considered objectionable are those lodges and Virtuous life.' Was this part ofthe ritual used in your Pastors and laymen alike must aVoid member- that haVe closely emulated the Masonic Lodge and own case?" ship or participation in any organization that in its many ofthe "animal lodges" (the collectiVe term is A.; "It was." objectiVes, ceremonies, or practices is inimical to not derogatory but is used by these lodges them- Q.: "The Masonic lodge, then, is ready to call those the Gospel of Jesus Christ or the faith and life of selVes). blessed Who have rejected the Christian religion, so long the Christian church. Knights of Pythias as they have lived by the leVel and on the square?" The responsibility of diligent and conscientious Order of Pythian Sisters A.: 'There is no question about that, since I, who died pastoral care requires that pastors ofthe Synod do Independent Order of Odd FeUoWs a declared infidel. Was buried with full Masonic honors." not administer HoIy Communion nor admit to The Rebekah Lodge Q.: "HoW do you explain the inconsistency that one communicant membership members of such or- Order of Patrons of Husbandry Who denied immortality is nevertheless buried With ganizations who, after thorough instruction, ref- BeneVolent and ProtectiVe Order of Elks ceremonies which imply a hereafter of bliss merited by use to sever their affiliation with the organiza- Ben. and Prot. Order of Elks of Canada good works?" tions, since Holy Communion expresses an exclu- Order of the Royal Purple (Canada) A.: "I am not here to explain the inconsistency. I am sive spiritual relationship of the communicant to Loyal Order of Moose here to say that the Masonic order accords full ritualistic his Lord and to his brethren (Matt. 10:32; I Cor. Fraternal Order of Eagles . honors to every member, whether he dies a Christian 10:16-17; 1 Cor. 11:25). Earnest continuous efforts Frat. Order of Eagles Ladies Auxilia- belieVer or not." should be put forth to bring indiViduals to a clear- ries . . . Q.: "Would you, then, say that the doctrines ofFree- cut decision regarding their contradictory confes- Section VI masonry and of Christianity can be reconciled?" sions, in order that they may become or remain THE NEW RELIGIONS A.: "It wouId be absurd to maintain anything of the communicant members ofthe congregation, as the It has pleased God to make knoWn by Christian kind." case may be... . witnesses the saving Gospel of Jesus Christ. You and I The testimony brought out in this famous case sheds Protestant Churches have been called to witness. If we are eVidence of Jesus some Iight upon the experiences which haVe led to the Among the Protestant churches in general there is a Christ being Lord of eVery area ofour life, and if we give anti-Iodge policy of our Lutheran congregations. Two Wide Variation in statements, attitudes, and prohibi- eVidence of His love in all our actiVities and inVolVe- instances are in point, one from a former age and the tions concerning the lodges. Many of the larger, more ments, there will still be many who are lost because they other from the present year. liberal churches haVe taken no position at all—although reject our witness. But then it will not be our fault 1852. in some cases they did experience some sharp differences because we have diVided our witness by contradictory 'The one issue was the stand of the congregation OVer lodge membership within their own communions in confessions of faith. .As Christians, may the affiliations regarding secret organizations, or lodges. The Independ- the past. Some Protestant churches haVe made lodge we make in our liVes always serVe as an opportunity to ent Order of Odd-Fellows was Very flourishing. Under membership a test of church membership. Others haVe bear witness to our faith in Christ. the existing order of things it happened that men belong- issued statements against lodge membership or haVe ing to this or some other secret society had gained recommended against it. Some apply their prohibitions Official Publication of the Lutheran membership in the congregation. Since the actiVity of only to the clergy. Pastor Schmidt there was a strong undercurrent against The Christian Reformed Church is opposed to Church-Missouri Synod lodgery in the congregation. Due to the preaching of lodges that inVolVe themselVes in religious matters. The God's Word the consciences became more and more Orthodox Presbyterian Church recommends to its alarmed because of the ungodly secretism harbored in congregations to make lodge membership a test of church Freemasonry vs. their congregation. The church council took the matter membership. The Reformed Presbyterian Church up and investigated lodgeIy in 1852. The result was that forbids membership in lodges beause they permit no a meeting of the whale congregation was called to con- witness to Christ eVen in ostensibly religious serVices. Christianity sider the question at issue, March 5, 1854. The pastor The Manual of the Church of the Nazarene asks was requested to lecture on the relation of lodge-mem- members to give evidence of their fellowship in faith by From the Lutheran Witness, Official Publica- bers to the Church. Finally, the eighteenth day of Sep- avoiding lodge membership. Several groups with the tions of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, tember, 1854, resolutions were passed against further name Church of God are totally opposed to lodge 1928. receiving members of secret orders into the congrega- membership. Pentecostal and Holiness Churches in In this celebrated case two unimpeachable witnesses tion, of disciplining lodge-members already in the con- general oppose lodge membership for laity and clergy. have recently testified for the defendant. Let us rehearse gregation, even of disciplining all members who Would The Church Handbook of the Mennonite General the scene. defend lodge-members. In this same meeting a new form Conference makes lodge membership a test of member- The first witness takes the chair. of reception into the congregation was adopted, which ship in the church. The Books of Discipline of both the Question: "Your name?" form is in force and is used to the present day. According Free Methodist Church and the Wesleyan Method- Ansioer: "Elijah Alfred Coil." to this form the candidate for membership must declare ist Church hold lodge membership to be a breach ofthe Q..- "What was your station in life?" in open meeting that he is not, and With the help of God covenant relationship ofthe Christian with the church. A.; "Minister ofthe Gospel." never will become, a member of any secret organization, The Assemblies of God are committed to a strong anti- Q.: "What denomination?" forfeiting all privileges of membership and all rights to lodge position and in their Constitution and Bylaws set A.: "Unitarian." the property of the congregation in case he fails to keep forth their principles with supportive Bible passages. Q.; "Were you a member of a secret order?" his promise." (From memorial booklet of First Trinity The Greek Orthodox Church of Nor^h America A.: "I was a 32d-degree Mason." Lutheran Church, Pittsburgh, Pa., ReV. W. Broecker, has not made lodge membership a test of church mem- Q.: "Repeat your testimony* regarding Freemasonry pastor.) and the Church for the benefit of the court." bership, but the Eastern Orthodox Church of Greece 1928. has pronounced Freemasonry a syncretistic reUgion sepa- A.: "A little child, once his attention is called to the matter, ought to he able to see that it is impossible to "I know full well what a terrible effect it has upon a rate from, and alien to, the Christian faith . . . "lifting congregation if lodges succeed in gaining a hold. My itself to a position ofa kind of super-religion, looking on harmonize the statement that we are counted righteous before God only for the merit of our Lord and Savior experience at H., Mich., as pastor of a lodge-ridden all religions as inferior to itself" congregation clearly taught me the awful eVil oflodgery. The Episcopal Church has taken no position on Jesus Christ,—I say it is impossible to harmonize this statement with the declaration taken from a Masonic For years that congregation was lodge-ridden and there- lodge membership although strong voices have been fore could make no progress. As soon as any pastor raised on occasion, calling for a study of whether the Monitor that God will reward us according to our merits. One of these declarations excludes the other. Man can- sought to cope with the evil, the congregation succeeded "theological implications ofFreemasonry are compatible in having him removed. The members in that congrega- with the Christian faith." Because oftheir church polity not consistently subscribe to both." Q.: "I understand, then, that lodges, also the Masonic tion, strange to say, admitted the antiChristian charac- neither the Churches of Christ nor the Baptist ter of the lodge, but contended that the pastor had no Churches have adopted a position regarding lodge order, do have a religion. This is often denied." A.: "It is foolish to deny it. I have admitted that business to meddle with their private affairs. Finally the membership, but in both churches there are ministers matter came to a head; my salary was withheld, secret that look with disfavor upon it. The Christian Church Masonry has a religion and has a creed." Q.: "You assert that there is a fundamental difference meetings were held by lodge-members, petitions were (Disciples of Christ) and Methodist Church are per- circulated under false pretenses, merely to get signa- haps the least antagonistic of all churches toward the between Masonry and Christianity?" A,: 'They are as irreconcilable as fire and water." tures, and I, who had been a popular minister at first, lodges, although the founders of both churches were was deposed from office on no charge whatsoever. The known to have opposed Freemasonry. Q.; "Is this difference hard to detect?" A.: "A little child, once its attention is called to the congregation split. The faithful members, being in the Members of the SeVenth-Day AdVentist Church minority, reorganized, and the old congregation, one of may not join any lodge because of Scripture's injunction matter, ought to he able to see it." Q.: "What Was the intention ofyour former testimony, the oldest of our Synod, went over to the Merger. .As a against being unequally yoked with unbelievers. Several result my position on lodgery is more definite than ever. groups of Quakers are strongly opposed to lodge mem- from Which you have quoted?" A.: "My purpose was to convince lodge-members in Ifthe lodge can gain a foothold, it will do all that it might bership, while others tolerate it. Chief among the criti- keep it and finally gain control of the congregation and cisms ofthe lodge is the requirement of oaths, although the orthodox churches that they ought to drop their inconsistency and join a non-Christian church, like the ruin the positive Lutheran stand of a congregation, not some Quaker statements about the lodge also call atten- shrinking from the most base means to gain its ends. The tion to "non-democratic social discriminations." General UI^itarian." Q.: "Can you assure us that your opinions are good unseen power in back ofthe lodge is the Evil One." (Paul Booth of the SalVation Army severely criticized the L. Kretzmann.) lodges for "allowing neither Jesus nor His Name a place Masonic doctrine?" A.: 'The Builder magazine. Vol. 1, p. 247, praises a The Relation of the Liberal Churches and the Frater- in religious ceremonies," adding, 'The place where Jesus nal Orders. Questions are from thsi treat. Christ is not allowed is no place for any Salvation .Army sermon in which I brought out the above opinions as 'well officer.". . . calculated to clear up the confusion which still obtains in Section V many circles' regarding the lodge and the Church." Q.; "Is the Builder magazine qualified to speak?" Christianity MANY MOVEMENTS AND ORGANIZATIONS A.: "It has the official approval of the Grand Lodge of The Lodges Iowa, its editor being appointed by that body." Objectionable from the theological perspective of Q.: "Can you quote tlie opinion of some Mason in high and The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. standing regarding your views?" The Masonic family of organizations. It is to be A.; "Herbert W. IDixon, Grand Master ofthe Wiscon- Freemasonry noted that the only authentic expression of Free- sin Grand Lodge, April 20,1928, in a letter addressed to masonIy is found in the "Blue Lodge," the first Rev. F.C. Brandhorst, of Madison, Wis., declares that my three degrees of Ancient Free and Accepted Ma- pamphlet is correct in its essentials'; tliat 'there is noth- Kurt IMarquart, sonry. There may be some "Christian" references ing in Masonry teaching salvation through the blood of Toowoomba, Australia in the rituals ofsome of the side degrees and allied Christ.'" CHRISTIAN NEWS, March 18,1968 orders of Freemasonry, but these may not in any The second witness now takes the chair. way contradict the universalism of the mother Q..' "Your name?" I. Preliminary Observation: Can Outsiders lodge which controls all Masonic afEIUates by means A.: "Luther Burbank." Know Masonic Teachings? of "patrons" or other lodge sponsors. Q.; "Your profession?" Ancient Free and Accepted Masons A.: "Experimenter in plant culture." Many people have the Impression that an outsider American (York) Rite Masonry Q.; "Your religion?" cannot possibly discuss the Craft wlth a Mason, be- Scottish Rite Masonry A.: "Infidel. I think I have made that clear when I so Continued on Page 22 Freemasonry THE CHRISTIAN NEWS May 24,1993 Page 22 Continued from P a g e 21 cause the former can have no Imowledge of the Craft The Bible itself has a similar multiplicity of which could be proved correct, while the latter is lx>und uses and meanings; it is the Bible and at the same to absolute silence. time is the volume of the Sacred Law; it is the It will therefore come as a surprise to many, to Book of the Old and New Testaments and at the leam that according to IRGREST MASONIC AUTHO- same time represents each of the world Bibles, RITY ANYONE may know the religious philosophy of and may be replaced by the Koran, the Zend Freemasonry, since only the rituals, modes of recognl- AVesta, the Vedas, etc.; it lies on the Altar and tion, etc., are secret, but not "the Masonic Creed." yet does not have possession of lt because the The following statements are taken from the latest Square and Compasses lie on the Altar with edition (seventh printing, 1956) of Albert Mackey's it; . . . the Lodge uses it as the LITERATURE of ENCYCLOPEDIA OF FREEMASONRY (Revised), pub- religion; . . . Masons . . , employ lt for purposes lished as "The World's Greatest Masonic Authority" of their own and apply to it definltlons pecullar by The Masonic History Company, 2300 S. Michigan to themselVes; Avenue, Chicago 16, HUnois, U.S. .A., and obtainable from there by anyone for 25 dollars. In the front of III. Second Basic Conflict: Christianity and the book there appears the note: "IMPORTANT. Stand- ard and fully approved works on the subject of Free- Masonry Teach Different Roads to Salvation. masonry are publlshed only by The Masonic History The basic moral doctrine of Masonry Is that man is Company." "saved" not by the merit of Christ, but by his own Under "Secret Doctrlne," (vol. R, p. 920) the EN - merit, effort, morality, character, etc. Masonry uses CYCLOPEDIA says: geometrical allegory to teach this system of self- salvation. .All mystical societies, and even liberal philo- Mackey (Volume I, p. 499), under "Jacob's Ladder," sophers, were to a comparatlvely recent period a Masonic symlx)l: accustomed to veil the true meaning of their instructions in intentional obscurity, lest the un- Its three principal rounds, representing Faith, learned and uninitiated should be offended. The Hope, and Charity, present us with the means of Ancient Mysteries had their secret doctrine; so advancing from earth to heaven, from death to life had the school of Pythagoras, and the sect of --from the mortal to immortality. Hence its foot the GnosUcs . . . FREEMASONRY ALONE HAS is placed on the ground floor of the Lodge, NO SECRET JXX:TRINE. ITS PHILOSOPHY IS DEDICATION OF SOLOMON'S TElMiPLE Is re-en- which Is typical of the wrorld, and its top rests - OPEN TO THE WORLD. Its modes of recogni- acted by Brooklyn Royal Arch Masons, Orient Chap- on the covering of the Lodge, which is syra- tion by which it secures IdentlficaUon, and lts ter 138. This ritual, neVer before photographed, is part lxjllc of heaven. rites and ceremonies which are its method of of ceremony awarding Most Excellent Master degree instruction, alone are secret. ALL MEN MAY to prospectlVe Royal Arch Masons. High Priest of JeWs That "Faith" here cannot be understood In the Chris- lCNOW THE TENETS OF THE MASONIC CREED. (center) kneels before cherubim-decorated Ark of the tian sense of trust in the Redemption of Christ, is clear CoVenant flanked by members of the Jewish tribes. from the fact that Masonry is open not only to Chris- And again, under "Secret Socleties," (voL II, p. King Solomon stands before Bible (background) sur- tians, but also to Jews, Mohammodans, etc. 922>. rounded by princes, Workmen and court attendants. The Lamb-skin given to the Mason upon his initia- LIFE. tion Is to be . . . Freemasonry . . . is a secret society only as respects its signs, a few of its legends an ever-present reminder of that "purity of within its hospitable lx)som, rejecting none and and traditions, and its method of inculcating its heart and uprightness of conduct so essentially approving none for his peculiar faith . . .Its mystical philosophy, Iwt which, as to everything necessary," thus keeping pure your thoughts, and religion is that general one of nature and primi- else—its design, its object, its moral and RE - inspiring nobler deeds and greater achievements! tive revelation—handed down to us from some an- LIGIOUS TENETS, AND THE GREAT IXJCTRINE (Masonic Ritual of the State of Texas, U.S. .A., cient and Patriarchal Priesthood—in which all WHICH IT TEACHES—IS AS OPEN A SOCIETY P. 208) men may agree and no man can differ. AS IF IT MET ON THE HIGHWAYS BENEATH The lamb-skin is given to Christian and non-Chris- THE SUN OF DAY, AND NOT WITHIN THE WELL- R. Swinburne Clymer, ANCIENT MYSTIC ORIEN- GUARDED PORTALS OF A LOIXJE. tian alike, making it clear that Masonry offers a way TAL MASONRY: (our emphases) of salvation which has nothing to do with Christ's Re- Masonry is the universal religion only because demption. The Lamb-skin lecture concludes: So the Masonic Creed is quite open to public dis- and only so long as it embraces all religions cussion—and that is really the most vital aspect. But . . . may the record of your life and actions . . . Masonry is not only a universal science, even the rituals and other matters can he discovered be as pure and spotless as this Apron now is; but a WORLD-WIDE RELIGION, and owes al- by anyone without too much trouble. In the first place, and when your soul, freed from earth, shaU stand legiance to no one creed, and can adopt no sec- most of these "secrets" are printed in official Masonic naked and alone before the Great White Throne, tarian dogma, without ceasing thereby to be Mas- publications, either quite openly or else ln an easily may it be your portion to hear from Him Who onic . . . Without any references to forms and decipherable code. In the second place, many former sits theron, the welcome plaudit: "Well done, thou modes of faith, it furnishes a series of indirect Masons have written tx>oks atwut the Craft, so that good and faithful servant! Enter thou into the joy evidences which silently operate to establish the there is really no doubt whatever as to what goes on of thy Lord!" great and general principles of religion, andiioiiits in the Lodge. And it should not t>e forgotten that those to that triumphant system which was the object who leave the Lodge for conscience's sake, usually Clymer, ANCIENT MYSTIC ORIENTAL MASONRY: of all preceding dispensations, and must ultimate- turn over all the authentic information they possess to Every soul must "Work out his own salvation." ly be the sole RELIGION OF THE HUMAN RACE." their pastors! Salvation by faith and the vicarious atonement (pp 58-lI8 Our emphases) We can t>e done then with the argument that Masonry were not taught, as now interpreted, by Jesus . . . caImot be discussed, fully confident that all the necessary Masonry does not teach salvation by faith, nor C. Christianity conflicts with Masonic unlVer- authentic evidence is available. the Vicarious Atonement. Go through its degrees, sallsm: study the history as taught by its greatest Mas- II. Preliminary Observation: Defining the Is- Exodus 20:3: Thou shalt have no other gods before ters, and you can not find that it teaches this sue. Me! doctrine. Boldly do I claim that this doctrine does St. John 5:23: All men should honour the Son even not make Christians, but it does make crim- It is not correct to say that the Church is "against as they honour the Father. He tliat honoureth not the inals, (pp. 10-11) Masons." The Church isn't against any individual. But Son, honoureth not the Father, which hath sent Him. precisely l)«cause she is profoundly and compassionate- Now compare all this with the doctrine of the Sa- St. John l4:6: "I am the Way, the Truth, and the ly FOR each human being, she is AGAINST all sys- cred Scriptures: Life: no man cometh unto the Father but by Me." tems, (pinions, and teachings which, from the divine St. John 3:36: He that believeth on the Son hath ever- Romans I6:I7: Mark them which cause divisions and Revelation in Scripture she knows to lie harIIiful and lasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; wrong. The argument has nothing to do with anyone's and avoid them. not see llfe; but the wrath of God abldeth on him. personal sincerity or character. It should be viewed R C o r . 6:13 ff.: Be ye not unequally yoked together St. John 14:6: I am the way, the truth, and the life, strictly objectively: Are there objective conflicts between with unbelievers . . . Wherefore come out from among no man cometh unto the Father but by Me. the teachings of Christianity and those of Masonry? It them, and lie ye separate, saith the Lord. Acts 4:12: Neither is there salvation in any other: is the argument of this article that Masonry and Chris- Galatians l:8ff: But though we, or an angel from for there is none other name tInder heaven given among tianity are two mutually exclusive, incompatible religi- heaven, preach any other gospel unto you tlian that men, whereby we must be saved. ous systems, and that no human being can CONSIS- which we haved preached unto you, let him be accursed. Galatians 3:11: No man is justified by the Law in TENTLY be l»th a Christian and a Mason. That many I John 2:22ff: Who is a liar but he that denieth that the sight of CJod. Christians appear to find no conflict, we grant. But Jesus is the Christ? He Is antichrist, that denieth the Ephesians 2:8 ff: For by grace are ye saved through such people misunderstand either Christl»Iiity or Mas- faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of (jod: onry, or both. It is the argument and position of the Father and the Son. Whosoever denieth the Son, the Not of works, lest any man should boast. Church that no one who knows both what ChristiaIiity same hath not the Father. I John 5:l2: He that hath the Son hath lUe; and he is and what Masonry is, can be both a Christian and n John 9 ff: Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth that hath not the Son of God hath not lUe. a Mason. Anyone who is or seems to be both, is not not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that true to one of his mutually exclusive loyalties. abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father IV. The Conflict Is Admitted Not Only From This should also make it plain to anyone that the and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not Church's objection is not mere traditionalism, or atem- this doctrine, receiVe him not into your house, neither the Christian, But Also From the Masonic porary "cultural lag," but is as permanent and as bid him «n^imedsa words and actions may be hidden from the eyes ship. they ceyid see 11. They coM "•eel the Ui- By Auru Swan lense heal," Mr. vauihan recalled. of men, yet that All-Seeing Eye whom the sun, In order to emphasize the major issues, we haVe «•// sa>wt«. •/ TMa w»ix »-r«««T Jot.<»nAL OK hy one. Ihe men were isM lo lie moon and stars olaey, and under whose watchful i ^XLNCnON. Kt.-1Mial do you ret face down en a lable. and ikeir wider- not detailed other, subsidiary objections, which, how- care even comets perform their stupendous reVo- when you mix strawberries, whipped shmU were iwlird down. Al Uni HM "an eVer, should at least be mentioned. iinhPlievahle. painliil ein-lrlr shnrli was lutlons, pervades the Inmost recesses of the hu- cream and a braadiv ire"? The dreadful oaths of Masonry are immoral from Answer: A iawsutt. aMM lo ilK- hullncks." Then, red dye. man heart, and will reward us according to our the Christian point of view not only because of the maca- Michael vauchaii. a 44-year-oid brick- AflPf llMl. Ihe mn were Instrurletl in merits." A little child, once lts attention ls called laver and onetime, wbuld-be Shriner.' has sll down on an electrified benrh. whk-h Mr. bre punishments invoked ("your throat cut across, your vauKhan said sent them -al leaju two feri to the matter, ought to be able to see that It ls sued the fraternity's Oieika Temple here tongue torn out by the root," etc.) in the Name of God, for damajes over what he says happened 111 the air." The audience of Shriners fotind Impossible to harmonlze the creed statement here to hun In odd initiation rite*. it all quite hliarmus. he saki. but also because it is sinful to swear in UNCERTAIN quoted, wlth the declaration taken from the mon- The case, set ior trial in early Decem- Another shnrli came from Ihe "deserl matters. For the oaths are required BEFORE the can- ber in Fayette county Ocuit court. UfU itor of one of our greatest and most effectiVe sands." an electrified mat the randbiates. didate discovers the "secrets." the veil on the kinky skie o( as orfsniia- hand In hand, nvirchetl amund nn. Thte secret orders, and found, in substance, in the iion known for iu children's hospltais. con- last Jolt rave Mr. vauflian a cramp in his liturgies of nearly all the others. If "We are Either the oaths are taken seriously, but then they vention hirh jinks and ptuacky. poci-mid- hack, he says, and he was aiiowed by his die-ared men in few*. Former President Inrmenlors to rest for a few minutes. Rut accounted righteous before God only for the merit are blasphemous (cursing and swearing by God's Name). Or else they are not taken seriously, Init then they are Oraid Ford beionp. Join Wayne aad he had lo pass one hot test. A Shriner of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, by faith Cark Gabie endured secret inMaOMi rttes. taped Mr. Vaufhan's underwear lo his and not for our own works or deservings," then also blasphemous Oiterally taklng the Name of the Lord But did Mr. F\ird have to drop Mi pants ie(s. "I fimited," he saki. "they were rn- ln Vain)! This reflects the general dilemma of Free- for the phvilete? He didn't call heek. Inr In put sncnethhiK down my shorts lhal it cannot possibly lye true that the All Seeing Eye Desert Sands masonry: Either It is taken seriously, but then it is Ihey did not. want lo fail Ihrouth." "PerVades the inmost recesses of the human Mr. Vauchu ssys Uut he hlimeH had St«feei FllUne a sin against the First Commandment (Idolatry), or heart, and wiU reward us accordhig to our merits." to strip down to boxer shorts and walk on A sink nearby lull of strawberries. Ice else it is not taken seriously, txit then it is a sin against an eiectrUied mat shnuiaUnr Ihe hot sands cream and whipped cream looked like Ihe One of these declarations excludes the other. Men ot the Sahara. "Us shaniefui." ke lays. the Second Commandment (Blasphemy, taking the Name "snmethinii." Bui he never (M lo nnd nut cannot conslstently subscribe to both. But beyond IkaL mam's tkc worl Mr. for sure. When he sal nn a l>Me. as he of the Lord in vain). Vouchan can no iuerer talk about It. Jud|e was loM 10 do. it jackknifed. he struck his Fraternity men, interested in the welfare of Another issue has to do with the unity of the Church. Georce Barker hu ordered court records head on Ihe floor and he was knocked out. sealed and has loM both sides IO shut up io Thai's kis side o( the aery. their children, should be informed that in the How can a Christian segregate himself from his fellow- he can find impanhd Jums to hear Ike When he regained consciousness, iie liberal churches (modernist and Unitarian, ICM.) Christians, and unite with non-Christians in a religious case. That wiii be tricky, the jiidic thbyo. their children will be trained In principles which Given the aiictations. "some people woeld was Kiven an ice pack, and ihe Shriners fraternity, in the face of such clear divine commands laufh die piahilifl out of couit." kt says. apolngiied. The laMe wasn't svppoaed lo they will not practically haVe to deny, should as II Co r . 6:13 ff.? What sort of superficial views of "Others wouki sock it to the Skttne (or be- ha.-"- flip|K-cl they Ijecome members of the lodge. Inr a bunck of kttela." . Mr. Vaiichan stuck ariaind lor annlher the Church and its unity and fellowship does this pre- Shriners believe hi havhig hm hi puMIc 2» minutes and then HI Within a few days suppose? The Church then ls reduced to the level of (circuses, cooeentlens) and for food works he ninsullrd a neurniocist who recnm- And Mr. Coil argues, quite consistently, that Ma- one club among others! And what becomes of the pas- iraishir mooey lor a ckiidren's kespliais mended a TAT scan and physicai lher.-ipv. sons should leave their conserVatiVe Christians that rive free cart to the needy). But this he says. Nearly a year later, he filed his toral relation? A Christian must be able to discuss his suit charrim. .-imonr other thinirs. a-saull. church-bodies, and unite with those which deny the is embarrassinr. and members tend to be spiritual life freely with his pastor, who is his con- defensive abAut it fraud, neriitrrnre and .1 "loss nf hedootc historic Christian Faith! "Maybe somebody tot isto some pteasure." lie said In his suiemeni lo his fessor. But the Mason cannot go to his non-Masonic whipped cream or eiectricai shocks. alleiriiey Ilial he wakes up al nhlhl wlih pastor to discuss the Masonic part of his religious life! What's in-onc with havint a Uttie bit of numbness in his .irms. and he fears he will In reply to the Church of England's Fr . W. Hannah's hin? " says Florida State Sen. John Grant, nevf r fully recnver from his brush with ihe Such a situation is intolerable, to anyone who takes mystic order. book D.ARICNESS VISIBLE, there appeared, anonymous- who has been a Shriner for 20 years. seriously the doctrines of the Church and of the Office Robert E. .Manley. aQncUinau attorney The nieika Temple didn't return phnne ly, LIGHT INVISIBLE, by one who is both a Mason of the Keys. speciaiiihir hi fraternity iaw. says "the caiis seekint comment. Bui the Shriners and a Church of England minister. The dust jacket events sound iUie kaihig. and that's rener- concede In court documents that Inlllatinn lily kxtked upon as uniawtui " rituals can Include one or more of three speaks of the author's "profound Masonic knowledge VI. Concluding ObserVations Where the Fez Came From sorts of brief electrical shock described by and insight," and styles the book "a clear, logical, Mr. VauKhan. They aiso acksnwiedte lhal Persons interested in further study of this subject The first Shrine tcmpic. kaown as taping bnxer shorts is part of such cere- and lrrefutable answer." An editorial reView of the Mecca, was founded b UR hi New Tork. are advised to obtain some of the literature here re- monies. According to the Shriners' niinn: book in FREEMASONS MAGAZINE, No. 677 (pub- Shriners' eiaborate riniais and costumes, •The drfrndanl f.-innot confirm lhal any- ferred to. In this article our object has been merely includuif lasseied hats that resemble red one did such an acllviiy • to Mr. vau|[han. lished from Great i^ueen Street, London, and styled (lower pots, have Arabian Oiemes because to show to the satisfaction of any fair, unprejudiced but "there Is nn duct tape used In such a "The Organ of the Craft,") praises this book as an a foundlnr father, an actor named Wliilani procedure, but rather. two-Inch maskinr "authoritative" statement of Masonic principles. Ex- person that the reUgious system of Freemasonry and J. Florence, was smitten with .Middle E:ist- tape." The Shriners Instel Mr. vau(han the historic Christian religion are totally incompat- em cuUure. wasn't Injured when Ihe UMe tipped over, cerpts follow: The Shrine is a hierarchicai orfanha- which they admit II did. ible, and that no man can therefore CONSISTENTLY Hon with headquarters In Tampa. Fia.. and . . . were Mr, Hannah's excessively exclusive be both a Christian and a Mason. We have not argued has an imperial Potentate reifnuif over At nalinnal headquarters, a spnkesman and narrow interpretation of Christianity the true 725.000 members and 190 temples from and general counsel decline coinmenl on here the TRUTH of the Church's Faith, but merely its Pittsbur;h to Panama. spefifir Iwiies m Ihe rase, but they are one, it would indeed be incompatible with the But membership in the Ancient Arabic clearly nol amused by the news out of Ken. broader spirit of Freemasonry which sees truti LOGIC in relation to Freemasonry. Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine lucky "I adiise all Shriners not loenrane The reader, whether Christian or Mason, or both, has been dwindling In recent years. "We in any activity that could lead to any kind in all religions and gives precedence to none in had US deatiis [anionr members! last year of emliarrassmenl. Injury or demean the its religious observances, (p. 42) is asked to wel^ the matter carefully, conscientiously, in my temple." says potentate wiiliam fralernlly." says Theodore conanca. fen- Row then does Mr. Hannah profess to build up and prayerfully, for nothing less than eternal salvation .Misko'.1c. die presidinr officer of the :.1S0- era! counsel. is at stake! Let no one tie confused by false, irrele- n-.eniber Aimas Temple Ui Washhigton. "I truly hope no tortkius conduct" look a case against our ancient and honourable fra- DC. The averap ife of his memben is place, he says, addine thai his own In- ternity? He does so only by presenting a distort- vant arguments, which have nothing whatever to do with 60. Fewer younj men these days seem to liialinn in Vermont in iK« was "food, the case. For example: (!) "Many good people Ijelong want to nde around in parades on minia wholesome cducatioa" about Ihe Skrtaers' ed and un-Christian interpretation of Christianity. ture bicycles. to the lx)dge." True, but our ai .liority in religion hospital. He neither knows nor cares to know anything But .Mr. vaurhan. the bricklayer, ad other Shriners say lhal rules are clear of comparative religion. Christianity, he says are not "good people," but the Bible. The best people mired Ihe Shriners. And Uiey iold him : and lhal a temple can kise its charter lor n.eniberstiip would ""benefit him emodon again and again. Is an exclusive faith. Christ can be mistaken. (2) "Clergy belong to the Craft." breakint diem. "We let a IM of dn's and ally and spirituaily. as weU as allow him to don'ls." says Mr. Mbkovic of the Waiktaif opened the only gate of heaven to man lielow. Yes, uIIfortunately! But clergy also crucified Christ! perform a charitable public service." ac ton temple. cording lo .Mr. Vjuphan's complaint filed All prayer not offered ln the name of Christ, he (3) "The Craft does welfare work." Yes, but so do other There are even rules about whes it is with the court. iKildly proclaims, is idolatrous. He is our only religions. That doesn't make them true! proper to wear those huwy keta "We And so. In Juni-1»9. he was among ap never wear the iei where you wodd hesi- mediator and advocate, and the oIUy revelation of Each individual will, in the privacy of his own con- prosimately three diuen Inlllales al the tate lo uke your mother. wNc or amfii- diVine truth. In His name only is salvation to be Oieika Temple. The Slirine s doctors ex ler." he uy». science as well as in his outward affiliations, have to cused men with heart and back prublPiiis found. make his choice between Christ's Redemption and Ma- but cleared Ur. vaurhan. Mr. Vaurhan. ui If M r . Hannah is right, he has certaiIIly proved sonic self-salvation, the Most Hply Trmlty and the his case. GiVen these premises, his logic is "Great Architect of the UniVerse," the Church and the undoulrtedly irrefutable. If true religion is thus to Craft. Where do you stand: t>e narrowed down to salvation in no other name Here? The Baptists Here: under heaVen, and St. Paul's (should beSt. Peter's, "Father of all! In every "... in the confes- (An excerpt from a speech the editor of Chris- Acts 4:12, ICM.) words to this effect be understood age, In everj- clime adored, sion of the ONLY TRUE tian News presented at the 13th Congress of the in a spirit of bigoted literalness, then any such Or By saint, by savage, and by GOD we worship the Trin- International Council of Churches which met at "Christian" must indeed lie straining his con- sage, Jehovah, Jove, or ity in Person and the Unity science to the breaking point by accepting initia- Lord!" (The UNIVERSAL the UniVersity of British Columbia in Vancouver in Substance, of Majesty tion into the broader and deeper mysteries of PRAYER, oft quoted in in August, 1990). co-equal" (Communion Freemasonry. I for one can never understand how Masonic instruction," EN- Preface) While there are, of course, many smaller Baptist groups anyone who takes an exclusive View of Christ CYCLOPEDIA, VOL n, p. which still affirm the basic doctrines of Christianity, the large as the only complete revelation of God's truth 791) can l)ecome a Freemason without suffering from American Baptist ConvenUon (Northern) has long tolerated spiritual schizophrenia . . . the really honest denials of almost all the truths of the Christian faith. (See the Mason who is capable of logical reasoning must Grown Men Acting Like immature Boys CIME for documentation.)"" Christian News has published realise that such a dual allegiance is difficult many articles on the Southern Baptist Convention. The SBC to reconcile with spiritual integrity. If that is has for more than a decade elected conservative presidents. conceding a point to Mr. Haimah, he is welcome Silly and Stupid Some disciplinary action has been taken against liberal pro- to it. (That isn't just "a point" that's the whole fessors, but the SBC has been having a difficult time remov- CHRISTIAN NEWS, January 20, 1992 case, lCM.). . . ing all the liberal professors from SBC seminaries. Christian "Joining the Shriners Can Be Electrifying—Michael News has noted that books pubhshed by the SBC's Broadman If it is wrong for a Christian to pray together Vaughan Was Jolted by a Shocking Initiation; Secret with the Jew or Moslem to the Great Architect, Press and written by SBC professors, have attacked the iner- then it is undoubtedly wrong for hlm to t>ecome Rites Laid Bare" reproduced below from The Wall Street rancy of the Bible and promoted historical criticism A Sep- a Mason, (pp. 48-49) Journal shows how silly and stupid grown men can act. tember l 9 , 1988 Jteligious News Service story reported: For, if a Christian and a Hindoo meet together It tells about the initiation rite of Shriners' Oleka Temple "Amidst talk of a 'denominational holocaust' and denuncia- in a Lodge, and pray together to God, it is surely in Lexington, Kentucky. The Shiners are an auxiliary of tions of what was called 'the heresy of biblical inerrancy,' axiomatic In this atmosphere of broad charity the masonic order. about 700 Southern Baptist moderates agreed to fund an alter- that the CHRISTIAN MUST ACKNOWLEIX3E THAT Some 50 years ago this editor's father, when he Was a native set of Sunday School lessons and began discussing THE HINDOO'S GOD IS ULTIMATELY THE SAME member of a singing club which had masons as members, plans for an alternative to the denomination's Cooperative AS HIS OWN, for the prayers in the Masonic was invited to sing to some masonic group. Some of his Program.'"'' Ritual are not of course offered in the plural as friends wanted him tojoin the masons. He got to see some While Southern Baptists have made some good statements to many Gods, but to one. Masonry is monotheistic of the silly rites ofthe masons and had us all laughing as opposing at)ortion, clergymen and professors, who promote though wide differences in interpretation of God he told about his experience in his humorous style. the killing of the unborn, are not being disciplined. Dr. Paul are of course allowed. It is important that all Christians certainly do not oppose the good the shrin- Simmons and ReV. Foy Valentine were not removed from the critics of Masonry as well as Masons themselVes, ers do. They can overlook the silly and stupid initiation Southern Baptist conVention when they signed a widely circul- should thoroughly grasp this point. rites. HoweVer, no consistent and informed Christian ated statement which called for the right to kill unborn in- Is such an attitude incompatible with Chris- can long remain a member of the masons. Masonry, fants.'" tianity? Again, if it is, without doubt Masonry according to its official statements, is a religion even "Abortion Becomes Key Issue For Southern Baptist Semin- stands condemned, (p. 59) though many members may deny this. Furthermore, ary," an RNS story reports that Dr. Simmons has been The lilierai Christian has more in common masonry, according to its official statements, teaches warned by seminary trustees that his espousal of a pro-choice with the liberal Jew or the liberal Buddhist than that man must work his own way to heaven and that the stance in pubhc might be cause for dismissal. Simmons has he has with the bigotries of either extreme Pro- gods of non-Christian religions are just as true as the support in the SBC and has not yet been remoVed. RNS noted: testantism or extreme Catholicism, Anglo or Ro- Holy Trinity. Masonry does not teach that Christianity Dr. Simmons, wiio has taught at Uie seniinary for 20 years, man, (p. 6I) is the one and only true and saving faith. The Christian has frequently advocated a pro-choice stance on abortion in In this txiok I have tried above all things to News Encyclopedia.has a large section which docu- pubUc iectures. ln 1981, he toid a Washiiiglon forum sponsored be completely honest and open. FraIikness and ments the religious views of Masonry. Most major Prot- by the Religious Coalition for Abortion Rights that the Bibie candour can hurt no one, and many Masons with estant denominations allow their members to be masons taltes a pro-choice [iositioa ln a recent talk at tlie University of whom I have discussed it agree with me that Continued on Page 24 SBC "moderates" been making plans to start a new semin- THE CHRISTIAN NEWS May 24,1993 Page 24 The Baptists ary. Hefley, Beale, Hymers and other Baotists have shoWn that. try." While the SBC continues to elect conserVative presidents, it Continued from Page 23 still has plenty of liberal professors at its seminaries. There is God requires 1narried people to love and honor each other, the husband liis wife as his God-given helpmate and the wife Richmond, he said the Supreme Ckiurt's abortion ruling last no need for us here to quote these liberal professors Which JuIy allowed one group to impose a reiigious dognia on another. conserVatiVe Baptists haVe already exposed. her husband as her God-giVen head." The professor declined to comment on the trustees' resolu- Marriage is the lifelong'imion of one man and one woman tion. But seminary I^esident Roy L. Honeycutt asserted Uiat An advertisement for ''Inside the Southern Baptist Conven- imto one flesh. Marriage was instituted by Gk>d and is entered Dr. Simmons "has the right to speak openly" and questioned tion" in the July l , 1990 Biblical Evangelist, which has been into by rightful t>etrothal, or engagement.'''i whetlier tlie trustees have tlie legal right to fire a teacher promoted by R. L. Hymers, Jr., says: ''New Information God requires us to lead a chaste and decent life in thoughts, because of liis position on such issues."' Which Proves That The Conservatives Cannot Win The Battle desires, words, and deed. We should aVoid eVery opporttuiity RNS in another story suggests that abortion may become a For The Bible ln the SBC. Vou Will Be Shocked And Jolted On for impurity and unchasteness, such as pornography, and new touchstone issue for the Southern Baptist Convention. Virtually Every Page." fight to oVercome all impure thoughts and desires with God's The Christian News Encyclopedia,'", includes ''A Call To Word and prayer, work and temperance.'' Concern'' signed by Bob E . Adams, Southwestern Baptist ""CNE, pp. 150-155; I844-I852. God demands that We do not use his name in Vain. Clu-istians Theological Seminary, Paul D. Simmons, Southern Baptist '"CN, September 26, 1988, p. I. should not use coarse talk, the "four letter" Words." "^CNE, p. 24. Theological Seminary, Glen H. Strassen, Southern Baptist Women And The Holy SiDnistry Theological Seminary, Foy Valentine, The Christian Life "'"Abortion Becomes Key Issue For Southern Baptist Semi- According to God's Word, the Christian congr^ation nary," RNS, April 27, 1990. CN, May 14, l990, p. 9. Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention, Thomas A. chooses and calls men as ministers. Who in the name of Christ '""Abortion: New Touchstone Issue For Southern Baptist and in the name of the congregation publicly perform the Bland, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, and other Convention" RNS, May 16, I990. CN, May 28, 1990. function of the pastoral office, a diVine office."* BapUsts. ''A Call to Concern" promotes the killing of un- "=CNE, p. 115. born infants. Pro-alwrtionists are being allowed to teach at "'Available from Hannibal Books, 821 Center Street, Hani- The Bible teaches that a WomaiTcaimot serve as the pastor Southern Baptist Seminary. Those who deny the inerrancy of bal, Missouri. "Critique of 'House Divided,' .An Article on the of a Cliristian congregation or lead a public Worship service. the Bible are allowed to teach at SBC seminaries. Controversy in the Southern Baptist Convention," by R. Gustav Faithful Christians should not be members of denominations James C. Hefley in the five volume series The Truth in Niebhur, Appearing in "The Wall Street Journal,' April 25, Which ordain Women to the Holy Ministry.'" When the Apostle Crisis: The Controversy in the Southern Baptist Convention 1990. CN, June 4, 1990, p. I4. Paul declared that Women Were not to lead public Worship shows that theological liberals once tolerated Within the R. L. Hymers in his Inside the Southern Baptist ConVen- services, he Was not making some statement merely relevant SBC" tion quotes a good number of SBC theologians to show that they for his day. He based tiis argument upon the unchanging order deny basic teachings of historic Christianity. CN, June 4, l990, of creation."' DaVid O. Beale in his well documented S.B.C. House on The p. 14. A good book on the SBC and Fundamentalism is In Sand- Critical Issues for Southern Baptists" argues that the There is no difference t>etWeen male or female With regard Pursuit of Ihirity: American Fundamentalism Since 1850 Southern Baptist cancer may be terminal.'" to the order of redemption. Cliristians are all one in Christ by David Beale, Bob Jones University Press, Greenville, SC, Jesus."' SBC Professor Morris Ashcraft in his SBC Broadman press CNE, 2259. God forbids us to take the life of a felloW man or our oWn published Christian Faith and Beliefs denies such Christian '"David Beale, "S.B.C. House on the Sand?" Critical life. He forbids us to hurt or harm our neighbor in his body, doctrines as the inerrancy of the Bible, the Trinity, the Issues for Southern Baptists (Greenville, N.C.: Bob Jones that is, to do or say anything which may destroy, shorten, or Vicarious satisfaction of Christ and the immortality of the University Press). CNE, 1846. embitter his life. He forbids us to bear anger and hatred in "»CNE, p. 1846. soul."" Various reports indicate that he has with the help of our hearts against our neighlwr.'^' God forbids us to belie our neightxir; that is to lie about him or lie to him or witliliold from him the truth to harm him. Christians tell the truth and recognize that it is a sin to lie alMut any person, people or nation, lt is a sin to reveal a per- A Twentieth Century Formula of Concord son's priVate sin Without first speaking to the person, lf a mat- ter is public, such as When a theologian writes some anti-scrip- CHRISTIAN NEWS, July 30, 1990 tural views in a bode or teaches them in public, it is not a sin to the Bible), the unity of Isaiah, (the eighth century B.C. Pro- expose the error. Personal contact may first lie made but is phet lsaiah wrote the entire tKiok of lsaiah), and the Presented by the editor of Christian News to not mandatory according to Scripture.'* the 13th World Congress of the International historicity of Genesis and Jonah. The Old Testament directly and consciously predicts a personal Messiah. Christian faith, being itself a gift of God, is a living, actiVe, Council of Christian Churches at the University While the testiInony of Scripture settles the Mosaic autlior- powerful tliing. Which produces loVe, humility, self-sacrifice, of British Columbia, August, 1990. The foot- sliip of the first five txioks of the Bible for the Christian, tliere purity, and all other good Works." notes, which are longer than the Formula are in is no scholarly reason why We must reject the Mosaic author- We reject the idea that salVation by grace through faith The Christian News Encyclopedia. ship of these lxmks. alone is an "easy religion". On the contrary, "faith Without Works is dead"." A faith Which can exist together With con- The vieW that these books came from certain sources desig- tempt for God's Word, Sacraments, Church and Ministry, or Part III nated by scholars as J-E-D and P: With impenitent, unchaUenged pride, greed, hatred, lust, and We shaU now proceed to present to this 13th World Congress 1. Contradicts the plain statements of the Old Testament general indifference to the Will of Christ and the Welfare of of the lntemational Congress of Christian Churches a and of the NeW Testament that Moses is the author of the Pen- others, is not faith at all, but hypocrisy and delusion. preliminary draft of a brief Twentieth Century Formula of tateuch "WlMsoever doth not tiear his cross, and come after Me, can- Concord. This congress may Want to recommend that this b. Contradicts the internal linguistic eVidence of the Pen- not be My disciple'"" statement be passed on to a group of ICCC theologians from tateuch. The Church has both the right and duty to condemn Com- throughout the world and to its several hundred church bodies c. ls a theory that has been built up by arbitrary and high munism as a moral eVil, Which Violates both natural and in more than a himdred nations for study and then some sort handed procedures. reVealed laW. The efforts of the Communists are in conflict of action at the next ICCC congress. This Formula of Concord d. Is a theory that leads to absurdities. With many of God's Ten Commandments." does not cover all the doctrines of the Bible. It ceruinly can be e. Is a tlieory which is built up on a Vicious and impossible B. THE HOLY TRII^TY improVed. ln this statement we Will follow the order of the principle, the eVolution of religion, according to which the lCCC's doctrinal statement which all members of the ICCC The Triune God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; religion of the Israelites has been a gradual and natural are pledged to accept. The ICCC statement is in bold face and We confess With the ancient Cliristian Church the Athana- begins each section. growth from the lower to the higher, and which leaves no sian Creed without reservation: ''Whosoever Will be saved, room or reason for the supernatural, the diVine, the reVealed. before all things, it is necessary that he lwld the catholic (i.e., Among other equally Biblical truths. We believe and main- Such premises are repudiated by eVery conception of uniVersal, Christian) faith. tain the following: Bibliology and of God Which the Scriptures contain.' "Which faith except everyone do keep Whole and undefiled, A. THE HOLY SCRIPTURES Isaiah is quoted in the NeW Testament more than all the WitlHHit doubt he shall perish everlastingly. The plenary INvine h)q)iration of the Scriptures hi the origi- other prophets put together. The NeW Testament leaves no ''And the catholic faith is this, that We Worship one God in nal languages, their consequent inerrancy and infalUbillty, doutrt that Isaiah Was the autlior of the entire book of Isaiali.* Trinity and Trinity in Unity.'' and, as the Word of God, the supreme and nnal authority ln The authorship of the book of Daniel is settled for the Chris- The Bible makes it clear that the one true God consists of faith and life. tian by the Words of Christ. three distinct persons. While the Trinity is not as clearly The sixth century prophet DaVid Wrote the Book of Daniel.'' 1. We teach that the Holy Scriptures differ from all other revealed in the Old Testament as in the NeW Testament, there The Book of Genesis presents an accurate historical recoid books in the world in that they are the Word of God. They are are definite indications in the Old Testament of three distinct of What took place in real history and not in some realm the Word of God because the holy men of God who Wrote the persons in the Godliead. The Trinity is not a doctrine which "above and beyond history." The Lord Jesus, Who isGod, the Scriptures Wrote only that Which the Holy Ghost communi- Was fabricated by the early church, but it is a divinely second person in the Holy Trinity, accepted the Genesis crea- cated to them by inspiration, 2 Tim. 3:16; 2 Pet. 1:21. We revealed truth." tion accotmt as historical fact. God created the world by His teach also that the verbal inspiration of the Scriptures is not a C. JESUS CHRIST almighty power in six ordinary days and not through a gradu- so-called "theological deduction," but that it is taught by The essential, absolute, eternal Deity, and the real and pro- al process of evolution which required milUons of years. direct statements of the Scriptures, 2 T i m 3:16; John 10:35; per, bat siniess, hamanlty of our Lord Jesus Christ. While the Bible is not a scientific textbook and is Written in Rom. 3:2; 1 Cor. 2:13. Since the Holy Scriptures are the Word Jesus Christ is true God, begotten of the Father from eter- popuiar language, it does not present a n outmoded naive view of God, it goes Without saying that they contain no errors or nity, and also true man, bom of the Virgin Mary. The Scrip of the universe.' contradictions, but that they are in all their parts and words tures ascrilie to Clu-ist Divine names""; Divine attributes " ; Christ accepted the book of Jonah as a factual account of the infallible truth, also in these parts which treat of histori- Divine Works "; DiVine honor and glory."' something which actually hap{>ened. The question of the cal, geographical, and other secular matters, John 10:35. Ttie diVine and the human natures are united in Christ, tioth historicity of Jonah should t>e settled forever by tlie words of 2. We furthermore teach regarding the Holy Scriptures that natures together forming one uIidivkled and indivisible per- Christ.' they are given by God to the Christian Church for the founda- son.'* The Old Testament predicts a definite personal Messiah, tion of faith, Eph. 2:20. Hence the Holy Scriptures are the sole lt Was necessary for our Savior to be true man that he might Jesus Christ.' source from which all doctrines proclaimed in the Christian take our place under the LaW and that He might be able to suffer and die in our place." Qiurch must be taken and therefore, too, the sole rule and Law and Gospel lt Was necessary for our Savior to lie true God that His norm by Wtiich all teacliers and doctrines must t>e examined Law and Gospel are the two great doctrines of the Bible. fulfilling of the Law might be sufficient for all men;" that His and judged. The Law is that doctrme of the Bible in which God tells us life and redemption might be sufficient ransom for our lMW we are to be and What We are to do and not to do. 3. We reject the doctrine Which under the name of science redemption;" and that He might be able to overcome death The Gospel is that doctrine of the Bible m Which God tells us has gained Wide popularity in the Church of our day tliat Holy and tlie devil for u s . " the good neWs of our salvation in Jesus Christ. Scripture is not in all its parts the Word of God, but in part the The fact that Jesus prayed to the father, that he said only The Law shoWs us our sin and the Wrath of God; tlie Gospel Word of God and in part the Word of man and hence does, or at the Father knew when Judgement Day would come, or that shows us our Savior and the grace of God. least, might, contain error. We reject this erroneous doctrine He died does not prove that He Was not God in the fullest sense The Law must be preached to all men, but especially to im- as horrible and blaspltemous, since it flatly contradicts Christ of the term. Christ's State of Humiliation consisted in this, penitent sinners; the Gospel must be preached to sinners who and His holy apostles, sets up men as judges over the Word of that according to His human nature, Christ did not alWays and are troubled in their minds because of their sins. God, and thus overthrows the foundation of the Christian fully use the divine attributes comunicated to His human There is Law and Gospel in both the Old and the New Testa- Church and its faith.' nature." ments.* We reject the following views: Jesus was not made a god at His baptism or at His resurrec- Final Authority for Faith and Life 1. That the Holy Scriptures are inspired only in the sense tion, nor was He subsequenUy deified by His followers. Who The Bible and not modem science, philosophy, tradition, that all Christians are "inspired" to confess the lordship of believed Him to be God, while He Himself never made such a reason, visions, etc., is the only source and authority of a Jesus Christ. claim Jesus Christ existed With the Father from the very Christian's faith and life. beginning, as the second person of the Holy Trinity, equal 2. That the Holy Sph-it did not inspire the actual Words of The Bible condemns abortion, except in those extremely With the Father in every sense. Even after he took on Himself the Biblical authors but merely proVided these men With spe- rare cases where ttie life of the mother is in danger, as smful human flesh he was, and still is, and ever will be, the true cial guidance. killing. Unborn chiMren are real persons and entitled to the God.« 3. That only those matters in Holy Scriptures were mspired care and preservation wtiich God's command provides for all Any doctrine of ''justification" or "salvation'' which is not mankind." Churches which allow for the killing of unborn by the Holy Spirit which directly pertain to Jesus Christ and based on the doctrine that Jesus Christ is true God, the second children are false church with which faithful Christians man's salVation. person is the Holy Trinity, is not Christian and of no value.*' 4. That noncanonical writings in the Christian tradiUon can should not be in fellowship." The Bible condemns both homosexual orientation aIid prac- D. THE VIRGIN BIRTH OF CHRIST be regarded as ''inspired" in the same sense as Holy Scrip- tice as sin. There is no room in heaven for uIirepentant His birth of the Virgin Mary. ture. adulterers, homosexuals, etc. Churches which allow homosex- The Bible teaches the doctrine of Christ's virgin birth.*' The 5. That portion of the New TesUment witness to Jesus uals and lesbians to serve as pastors are false churches with prof^et lsaiah 700 years before Christ was born of the Virgin Christ contain imagmative additions which had their origin in Whlcn laithlul Christians should not fellowstiip." Mary predicted: "Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a the early Christian coInmunity and do not present .actual The Bible allows for capiul punishment, the right of the sign: L«ok, the virgin will conceive and have a Son, and His facts.' goVemment to put murderers to death. Governments may name will lie Immanuel!"". Alinah, the Hebrew word lsaiah Historic Christianity has always InainUined that Whatever engage in a just war." by the inspiration of God the Holy Spirit used for "virgin" can the NeW Testament asserts about the Old Testoment, or any The Bible condemns adultery and allows for divorce only in only be translated "virgin." Nowhere in the Bible or in any part thereof, is in principle the dogmatically binding position, the case of adultery and desertion, lt is a sin to ''live HelM-eW or Semitic literature does Alinah mean anything to the exclusion of all other interpretations. The Holy Scrip- together" before marriage." A pastor who divorces his Wife different from virgin.*' tures demand the affirmatton, on dogmatic grounds, the for no scriptural reason should be removed from the minis- There lias lieen only one Virgin birth in all history. When Mosaic authorship of the Pentoteuch, (the first five books of Continued on Page 26 Were not saved because of theh- works but only because they THE CHRISTIAN NEWS A Twentieth Century trusted in tlte promised Messiah Moses wrote that Abraliam May 24,1993 Page 25 "belieVed in the Lord; and he counted it to him for righteous- reponsibility to support Christian missions and to the best of Formula of Concord ness.''*' Paul elatiorates upon tltis statement in Romans 4 and one's ability to tell others about Jesus Christ.*' Continued from Page 24 Galatians 3 and explains that eVen the Old Testatment men were saved through faith alone. Today only true Christians, A clear understanding of the Biblical doctrine of Uie Word Isaiah wrote that an Almah (Virgin) Would conceive and haVe and not Muslims, Jews, and other non-Christians, worsliip the is absolutely essential to an effective approach to evangelism a Son, Isaiah was not first referring to some woman liVing God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the only God who exists and missions. We agree with LuUier, Uiat Uie Word does not during his time but only to the Virgin Mary." and grants eternal salVation to those who l>elieVe in Him. merely trip man's trigger of potential . . .for man has no E. THE VICARIOUS SA-HSFACnON OF CHRIST Many of the Psahns emphasize that salVation is completely in scriptural potential (Eph. 2:1). Listead, Uie Word effecte His substitutionary, expiatory deatli in that He gaVe Hls Ufe God's hands. David wrote that "Blessed is the man unto wliom even that which it commands — it not only calls for conVer- "a ransom for many." the Lord imputeth not iniquity, and in wliose spirit there is no sion and sanctification, THE WORD ITSELF CONVERTS The Bible teaches that Christ is not only the Victor oVer sin guile.''*' Habakkuk wrote that ''the just shall Uve by faith.''** AlVD SANCTIFlES.** but that He fulljf appeased God's wrath for sin and satisfied The Apostle Paul worte: "For we cwiclude that a person is J. SPIRITUAL UNITY IN CHIRST the demands of diVine justice. Christ "gaVe Himself a ransom justified (declared righteous) by faith — apart from tlie works Tbe real ^bitual unity in Christ of aU redeemed by His pre- for all."" John wrote that Christ "has paid for our sin, and of the Law."*' clous blood. not for ours only but for the whole world."" lsaiah wrote that Paul wrote to the Ephesians: "Yes, by His grace you are The one, holy Christian, and apostolic Church is not an ex- ''He was wounded for our transgressions.''" saved through faith, lt was not your doing; it is God's gift, lt ternal organization, but a spiritual organism, the Mystical F. RESURRECTION AND JUDGMENT is not a result of anything you have done; and so no one may Body of Clirist, consisting at all true Christians, i.e. those in His resurrection from among the dead in the same body ln boast."«« whom God's Spirit has, ttirough ttie means of grace, worked Wliich He was crucified and the second coming of this same Jesus made it clear: "For God loVed the world that He gaVe true spiritual life, that is faith. Jesus in power and great glory. Christ rose physically from only-begotten Son so that whoever belieVes in Him might not We reject the ''Ecumenical MoVement" (the NaUonal and the dead. Tlie resurrection WaS-a ' 'resuscitation'' of the same. perish His but have everlasting life.''*' World Council of Churches, Uie Lutheran Worhl Federation, lKidy which was placed in the tomb. The tomb was einpty on Man does not come to saving faith in Jesus Christ by liim- etc.) l>ecause it refuses in principle to distinguish t>etween that first Easter morning. His disciples did not steal liis body. self. By nature he is spiritually blind, dead, and an enemy of truth and falsehood, and acts as if the Church were essentially They proclaimed the trtlth of Christ's resurrection even Gkwl; and therefore by his own reason and strength cannot a Visible organization united not by allegiance to diVine truth, though they understand it might cost their own lives because believe in Jesus Christ, or come to Him.** but by compromise, outward forms, prestige, weight of num- they knew that they were telling the truth. They saw the It is the work of the Holy Spirit, who is true God, the third l>ers, and other false standards. While gratefully admitting empty tomb. Jesus appeared to them on various occasions. person in the Holy Trinity ,*» to bring man to saving faith in that there are true Christians, dear children of God, wherever There are no contradiction in the various accoimts in the New Christ by imparting to him the blessings of redemption." The Uie Gospel is in use, also outside ttie orUiodox (right-teaching) Testament of Christ's resurrection, lt is an event which took Holy Spirit converts man. Man does not convert hhnself." tJiurcli", we reject in obedience to CJod's commands*" Church place in real history, not something which the disciples and Without the grace, help, and activity of the Holy Spirit man is Fellowship with teachers and church lxxlies which reject the early church fabricated."* not capable of making himself acceptable to God, of fearing ptu-e Word and Sacraments of Gkxl. It is because we are Jesus knew that He was the Messiah promised in the Old God and believing in God with his whole heart, or by expelling fh-mly committed to true, God-pleasing unity that We reject Testament and that He would rise again from the dead to save inlKIrn lusts from his heart.". outward church-union without real itmer doctrinal unity. all men from their sins."» I. ETERNAL SALVATION AND ETERNAL DAMNA'nON We reject all forms of racism. God has no special or chosen Christ will return Visibly and in glory.'" He will then judge The everlasting bliss of the saved, and the everlastiBg race, only a chosen people. The' 'chosen people'' are all Chris- the world in righteousness.^' He will come on the Last Day, suffering of tile lost. ^ tians, regardless of race, nationality, color, sex, wealUi, which is appointed by God, but unknown to ma1i." All those, but only those, who trust in Jesus Christ as their social status, etc. Peter told the ChrisUans that "you are a G. OIUGINAL SIN SaVior from sin and not in their own life or works, will go to chosen people."" We reject Uie racism of the evolutionists The total depraVity of man through the Fall. heaven when they die. Jesus said: "l am the resurrection and who teach that all races do not come from one man. "From EVil or sin originated from the free choice of free moral the Life. Anyone who believes in Me will Uve even if he dies- one man He made ever nation to have the people live all over agents, and that since the Fall — a real, historical eVent de- Yes, anyone who lives and believes in Me will never die.''" Uie world."** "Because l live you too will live.'"". scribed in Genesis 3 — all men are by natm-e spiritually blind, K. PURE DOCTRINE \ND UFE dead, and therefore helpless." Eph. 2:1-2. The necessity of maintaining, according to the Word of Gad, We reject the idea that the human soul, after the Fall and The doctrine of the resurrection from the dead is taught in both the Old and New Testaments, lt is not some teaching tile purity of the church in doctrine and life; and, still belieV- before ConVersion, has any spiritual life or powers whatevo-. ing the Aposties' Creed to be a sUtement of Scriptural trutti, Sin was brought into the world by the devil, who was once a which was developed by men during the intertestamental period so that they might have some comfort in the hour of we therefore incorporate it in these articles of faith. holy angel but fell away from God, and by Inan, who of his death." The Bible teaches that Christians should practice doctrinal own free will yielded to the temptation of the devil." Sin is Jesus said that He was the only way to heaVen and that all discipline. They should not permit Uieologians and pastors breakijlg the Law.'' SIIi pays off with death.'* wiUiin their fellowship to deny the doctrines of liLstoric rhris. On account of original sin, man is by nature lost and those who do not belieVe in Him are lost." The Athanasian Creed teaches that all those who do not t>eUeVe in the Holy Tri- tianity. Ortliodoxy must not only lie on paper by officially condemned, ruined in body and soul. All men have sinned, in-. nity, the only true God, "without doubt he shall perish affirIning orthodox resolutions, but it must also be practiced. eluding every Christian and the greatest of "saints.''" eVerlastingly." Wliile clergyman should be free to lielieve and teach their own H. SALVA-nON reUgious views, they should join an organization which offi- SalVation. the effect of regeneration by the ^irit and the The unl)elieVers will rise to eternal death, that is, to everlasting shame, contempt, and torment in hell." Man goes ciaUy tolerates these views.*' Word, not hy worlts but by grace through faith. Christians should leave churches wliich refuse to discipline We firmly maintain the doctrine of justification by grace, to either Heaven or Hell at death. There is no purgatory or limbo, according to the Bible." clergymen who deny such basic doctrines as The Trinity, for (Christ's sake because it is the cliief doctrine of the justification by faith alone, and the deity. Virgin birth aiiid Oiristian religion;" it distiIiguishes the Christian religion The Bible teaches that at the time of death the soul of the believer is at once received into the presence of Christ." At resurrection of Christ.** from false reitgioIis, all of which teach salvation by works;" * * • the Last Day the believer will live with Christ, according to this doctrine gives enduring comfort to penitent siimers;*'' and P.S. Anyone who has some suggestions for a Twentieth Cen- this doctrine gives all glory to God." body and soul, in eternal joy and glory.*" Since Jesus Christ is the only way to Heaven and those who tury Formula of Concord may write to Uie editor of Christian Both the Old and New Testament teach that a man is News, Box 168, New HaVen, Missouri 63068. justified by faith alone. True believers in the Old Testament die without him are lost in eternal Hell, it is Uie Christian's

man, but to be in silence. For the husbands of one wife, ruling churches that have 'deacon- Adam was first formed, then EVe" their children and their own esses," this scripture clearly Total Ordained Women (1 Tim. 2:11-13). This was an houses well" (1 Tim. 3:12). prohibits women from serVing in instruction for a young preacher Though there may be some the office of deacon. as to the place of women within In SBC Now 900 the churches. been pastors. Also we haVe Paul's instruc- From the Baptist Challenge Fifty-seven ordained women tion to the church at Corinth. He Exiled to the April, 1993 says: "Let your women keep si- The number of Southern have been associate pastors. Others minister in Various ca- lence in the churches: for it is not Baptist women who are ordained permitted unto them to speak; has almost tripled since 1986, pacities, such as missions, social ^'Little Churches^^ work and counseling. but they are commanded to be from 230 to more than 900 to- under obedience, as also saith day—according to a study hy the In addition to their increase, By Ernest D. Pickering women ministers also are more the law" (1 Cor. 14:34). If some- ent outward success of our min- Southern Baptist Women in one asks me to define what this The Baptist Challenge Ministry. determined to train for ministry As a young man I was or- istIy. than their male counterparts. Verse means, it means exactly The states in which Baptists dained to the gospel ministry by Most gospel-preaching, Bible- Miss Anders said, noting they what it says: Women are to keep have ordained the most women a Southern Baptist ConVention teaching churches in the world generally are better educated silent in the public serVices of the are Kentucky, North Carolina church. While pursuing my today are little churches. We than male ministers. church. and Virginia, reported Sarah seminary work in an independ- rejoice at the occasional church Secondly, we haVe the qualifi- Southern Baptists do not ent seminaiy one of the great which has grown to stupendous Frances Anders, chair of the cations for a minister. Paul require seminary training or any Southern Baptist pastors sought size under the blessing of God, ' department of sociology and so- clearly lists them for us in First cial work at Louisiana College in particular leVel of education in to persuade me to remain within but most churches are not in this order for ministers to serVe Timothy. There are at least two category nor will they ever be. Pineville, La. of these that a women cannot the ConVention. Closing the gap are Georgia churches. Some observers have I told the good pastor that I Thank God for the "little speculated women must attain meet. Paul says a minister must churches!" Where would we be and South Carolina, said Miss "be the husband of one wife" (1 could not remain within a body Anders, who has compiled exten- educational levels not expected that allowed rank apostates to without them? Over the years I of men in order to prove their Tim. 3:2). There is no way that a have received great spiritual sive data on Southern Baptist woman can be a "husband of one hold positions of leadership. I worthiness for ministry. reminded him that at his alma blessing from fellowship with the women who are ordained and/or wife," and we haVe no right to And for most women minis- mater, a Southern Baptist semi- pastors and congregations of such who have been engaged in minis- turn this Verse around and say ters, their ministerial calling nary, the notorious Nels Ferre churches. There are thousands tIy. "the wife of one husband." of those churches who have The 900 Southern Baptist involves following God's leader- had lectured, spreading the poi- Paul also says that the minis- maintained a steadfast alle- women who have been ordained ship. Miss Anders said. son of his unbelief among the ter is to be "one that ruleth well giance to bibUcal truth when their comprise only a tiny fraction of "Most of these women feel... student body. "Yes," he said, "it's his own house" (1 Tim. 3:4). The bigger brothers have long since the total number of the denomi- ordination is not a biblical issue; true, but, but there is nothing I Bible clearly states that the man departed. From such churches nation's ministers. it's an ecclesiastical issue," she can do about it." When I reiter- is to be the head of the wife say- have come a myriad of pastors explained. "It's a church prob- ated my conViction that I must A survey ofthe 1992 edition of ing: "Wives, submit yourselves lem, not a Bible problem. separate from the ConVention and missionaries. "Who has de- the Southern Baptist Conven- unto your own husbands, as unto "Many of them are not tIying because of its benign attitude spised the day of small things?" tion Annual shows about 90,000 the Lord. For the husband is the to prove anything. They simply toward apostasy, this noted pas- (Zech. 4:10). Let us never forget Southern Baptists have been head of the wife, even as Christ is are service-oriented. They feel tor said, 'Well, then you'll be that "little is big if God is in it." ordained or hold ministry posi- the head of the church" (Eph. like the best recognition of their consigned to be with the little God does not measure the worth tions in Baptist churches. 5:22-23). The Apostle Peter gave position is ordination ... Most of churches for the rest of your life." of churches according to their According to those numbers the same instructions by saying, them are not bucking to be radi- I have often thought of his state- size. Members of a "little flock" ordained women comprise only 1 "Likewise, ye wives, be in subjec- cal feminists."—Copied from The ment. He offered to help me get a are just as important to God as per cent of the denomination's tion to your own husbands" (1 Baptist Trumpet. "big" church, a "good" church, those in a megachurch. Thank vocational ministry force. How- Pet. 3:1). (Editor's Comments: The ob- and no doubt he could have done God for those Philadelphian ever, even more women are serv- Paul further states in giving churches—"thou has a little ing in church-staff roles without jection to women ministers is not so. But would it have been honor- purely ecclesiastical and not the qualifications for ministers ing to God? God desires "truth in strength, and has kept my word, the benefits of ordination. saying, "For if a man know not and has not denied my name" The three-fold increase in biblical as Miss Anders asserts. the inner parts" (Ps. 51:6). He is Two Biblical arguments are to be how to rule his own house, how more concerned with our obedi- (Rev. 3:8). I like those little ordination has placed women in shall he take care of the church churches! How about you? an array of ministries. used against the position of a ence to Him than with the appar- women preacher. of God" (1 Tim. 3:5). This also Chaplaincy has absorbed the eliminates a woman from being a largest block—202—of ordained The first is Paul's admonition to the churches that the women minister. women ministers in the denomi- Finally, we might also point nation. are to keep silent in the churches. Paul says: "Let the woman learn out that a similar qualification Remember Christian News Eighteen women currently applies to the deacon. Paul, in serve as pastors of Southern in silence vvith all subjection. But I suffer not a woman to teach, giving the qualifications for dea- Baptist congregations. A total of cons says, "Let the deacons be In Your Will 43 Southern Baptist women have nor to usurp authority over the THE CHRISTIAN NEWS May 24, 1993 Page 26

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depersonalized force.) Who Or When, in the Benediction, your Here are the 22 categories. Most categories have seV- eral or many passages, but only one or a few are listed. pastor says "... and the fellowship 1. The Holy Spirit speaks, 1 Timothy 4:1 and dozens What Is ofthe Holy Spirit be with you all,'* of other places. Some of those places are through the holy prophets. Many more are not. he's not just saying "May the Force 2. The Holy Spirit is called "He," John 16:12 and 14. The Holy There are many places in the original Greek language be with you." where the word "it" is used, because of a fine point of Spirit? Greek grammar. But in John 16, the Greek word "He" is Bible looking for passages. 1 had time on my hands that definitely used. EVen the JW translation of the Bible year because of sickness, and did the job most thor- shows this. oughly, reading from Genesis to ReVelation and expect- 3. The Holy Spirit calls Himself I," Acts 10:19-20, ing that maybe I would find 25 passages to write down 13:2, eVen the JW translation. By Roger KoVaciny that talked about the Personhood of the Holy Spirit. 4. The Holy Spirit forbids. Acts 16:6-7. When I was young and foolish, 1 went along with a cult I didn't find 25 pages, 5. The Holy Spirit predicts, I Peter 1:11. that denied the Trinity, (All cults deny the Trinity, I found one hundred and 25! PAGES—of passages! 6. The Holy Spirit reveals, Lk. 2:25-26. incidentally,) They taught that the Holy Spirit Was only These passages fell into about 22 categories, which 7. The Holy Spirit intercedes, Romans 8:26. God's "active force"—you may have heard this froIn show that the Holy Spirit is a Person, not a thing. (How 8. The Holy Spirit is a witness and bears Witness, Acts Jehovah's Witnesses too. would you prove to someone, by mail or over the tele- 5:32, I John 5:7. one day a J.W. challenged me to prove that the Holy phone, that you weren't just a computer? About the same 9. The Holy Spirit can be spoken to and even lied to. Spirit Was not just an active force, so I sat down with my way the Bible proves that the Holy Spirit is not just a Continued on Page 28 THE CHRISTIAN NEWS May 24,1993 Page 27 93,000 copies of 370 page book printed by Leader in 1965—Long Out of Print—New Edition in 8"x11" format. Only $2.00 BAAL OR GOD—LIBERALISM OR CHRISTIANITY ' By Herman Otten, Pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, New Haven Editor, Christian News and An American Translation of the Bible What Some Reviewers Said "A l

/iITLRWARDS DAVID WAS TROUBIED Bt.CAUSC HC H A D CU T O i T IS THIS YOUR VOICE ,"\ THt rORNl.k' or MY SON DAVID? SAMl'S ROHI.. YOU ARE BETTER THAN I, BECAUSE YOU H.AVL DONE COOD TO ME WHILE I HAVE DONE EVIL TO YOU. THE LORD WILL RICHLY REP.i^Y YOU . -OR WH.-AT vQij ij.wr DONE TO M E TODAY. 1 KNOW THAT YOU VVILL CERTA!ML> BE KING.

3AUi. WENT HOfviE, BUT DAVID 7 WHY DO YOU LISTEN TO MEN WHO SAY,^ A N D HIS M E M WENT UP "DAVID IS TRYING TO HARIv) YOU." YOU SEE TO THE STRONOHOLD. AT THAT TIME SAMUEL DIED. i HOW THE LORD DELIVEIJLD YOU TO M E IN ALL ISRAEL.. CAME TOGETHER AND THE CAVE, AND THOUGH I WAS TOLD TO KILL MOURNED FOR HIM. AND THEY YOU, I SPARED YOU. SEE THE CORNER OF t BtJRIED,.HIM /rr-HIS HOME IN RAMAH. YOUk ROl^F. IN MY H/\ND. NOW YOU SHOULD KNOW THAT I DON'T WANT TO HARM YOU. HAVE NOT BINNED AGAINST V O U AND YET YOU PLC)r TO KILL M E . MAY THE LORD PUNISH YOU, BUT i WILL NOT LAY MY HAND ON YOU. WHOM ARC YOU

15. The Holy Spirit HAS power, and therefore cannot say about God? He said "God is a Spirit." What did the Who Or What Is the Holy Spirit? BE power, Romans 15:13 and 19. angels say about God? "Holy,Holy, Holy." Is God a spirit? 16. The Holy Spirit creates and gives life. Job 33:4. Yes. Is God holy? Yes. So is God a holy spirit? Yes. So is Continued from Page 26 17. The Holy Spirit ordains pastors. Acts 20:28. a holy spirit God? Yes. So is the Holy Spirit God"? Yes. 18. The Holy Spirit gives and/or receives loVe, Ro- It should not, therefore, surprise us if the Lord is "the Acts 5:3-4. Lying to the Spirit is called lying to God. mans 1 5:30. Holy Spirit" and "the Holy Spirit" is the Lord. 10. The Holy Spirit can he insulted, Hebrews 10:29. 19. The Holy Spirit has a mind, Romans 8:27. And that's important. 11. The Holy Spirit can be grieved, Ephesians 4:30. 20. The Holy Spirit knows, I Corinthians 2:11-12. Because when, in the Benediction, your pastors says 12. The Holy Spirit has feehngs, Isaiah 63:10. 21. The Holy Spirit also teaches, I Corinthians 2:13; "... and the fellowship ofthe Holy Spirit be with you all," 13. The Holy Spirit can be blasphemed, Matthew John 14:26. he's not just saying "May the Force be with you." 12:31. 22. The Lord is the Spirit, II Corinthians 3:17. (Northwestern Lutheran, May, 1993) 14. The Holy Spirit is not just "the power ofthe Lord," But how can the Holy Spirit be a Person—and hoW Roger Kovaciny is serving with the Thoughts of Faith as he is called by cultists, Luke 5:17. can the Holy Spirit be God? Miss'nn in Ukraine. Actually, this shouldn't mystify us. What did Jesus