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| Albert Pike - 33rd degree Freemason |
Basic Beliefs:
The Masons are not considered to be a cult by many because of Christian involvement in the organization, but a close look at their beliefs shows otherwise.
There are 3 levels: apprentice, fellowcraft, and master mason, which contains 33 degrees.
The higher degrees are only offered to those who want to pursue further, and they must become a member of the Scottish Rite or the York Rite to get past the 3rd degree.
They teach that the Messiah will be an idea at the pinnacle of evolution, not a personal savior.
The focus of the organization is a search for "the Light".
They claim that Freemasonry is based upon the Bible, but it is actually based upon the Kabbalah, a book of witchcraft.
Jesus:
They do not recognize the deity of Christ or acknowledge him as "the Light".
Salvation is through works. It is based upon living a good life and by attaining the level of master mason.
"The religion of Freemasonry is not Christian."
- Albert Mackey, 33rd degree Mason
They place themselves above all religions, which they place on equal standings.
They do not acknowledge the sinfulness of man or the need for forgiveness, only the pursuance of "the light".
They pray, but are forbidden to pray in Jesus' name, and they omit His name from any Scripture they read.
Salvation:
They claim that salvation is only available through their organization.
"I hereby promise the Great Spirit Lucifer, Prince of Demons, that each year I will bring unto him a human soul to do with as as it may please him, and in return Lucifer promises to bestow upon me the treasures of the Earth and fulfill my every desire for the length of my natural life. If I fail to bring him each year the offering specified above, then my own soul shall be forfeit to him." - Manly P. Hall, The Secret Teachings of All Ages
"Masonry is regarded as the direct descendant, or as a survival of the mysteries... of Isis and Osiris in Egypt." - Robert Freke Gould, History of Freemasonry
Witness Focus:
Be prepared to come in contact with some Christians who are part of the Freemasons, and see no problem with it.
For them, ask them questions concerning salvation in the Masonic Order.
For others, show them the impossibility of being good enough to earn salvation.
Show them that there is only one true God, who they will one day stand in judgment before, and that they must be prepared.
