Sunday, May 18, 2014

SUGGESTIONS FOR DEALING WITH SOMEONE WHO CLAIMS TO BE BOTH A CHRISTIAN AND A FREEMASON

by Lyle Larrigan
This section is written to assist Christians, who, after much prayer, have decided to approach someone who claims to be a follower of the Lord Jesus Christ and a Freemason at the same time.

The first and most important step is to establish that as Christians, you both accept Jesus as Lord (Romans 10:9,10), and Savior (Acts 4:12).
If you meet any hesitation or resistance on this first step, you can suggest that perhaps you could take the Bible test found in 2 Cor. 13:5 to check and see if you are really both "in the true faith". This could lead to a discussion of what it means to have Christ "in you", to be "saved", and therefore, a Christian. Share your own salvation experience.
If the Mason appears to be basically an unbeliever, or a doubter, we recommend Josh McDowell's book, Evidence That Demands a Verdict, where in chapter 7 he considers the claims of Jesus. Perhaps it may be necessary to establish this foundation before proceeding, should you find yourself dealing with a real skeptic, who nevertheless considers himself a "Christian".(This book is available in Christian Book stores.
In any event, remind the Mason that his own writings state that the "Holy Bible is the Great Light in Masonry, and the Rule and Guide for faith and practice." (The HOLY BIBLE The Great Light in Masonry, Philadelphia, A. J. Holman Company, l968).
Once agreement is reached on the first step, you should move on by acknowledging that you are aware that Freemasonry makes many fine-sounding claims, and that it has a public record of good works and enjoys a high degree of acceptability, even within a number of the liberal Christian denominations.

Tell them that you are aware of their oath of secrecy, and that you will not in any way ask them to divulge any Masonic secrets. Explain that you are motivated by the love of Christ, and that from your understanding and reading, Freemasonry and Christianity are not only incompatible, but in fact are opposed to one another. Listen patiently to the Mason's objections. He may try being a prevaricator, that is, one who deflects someone from finding out the truth, even if it means lying to do so.

Remember he is under oath to protect Freemasonrys secrets and may even tell you things about Freemasonry you know to be false. If not done deliberately, it is also possible that the Mason you are dealing with may have forgotten exactly what he was taught, or has not carefully read what he was given. Be patient and proceed. We suggest you use only three or so of the following comparisons at a time and keep the rest for later discussions.

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