Freemasonry: A Biblical Perspective on an Unbiblical Organization

Origins and Beliefs in Conflict with Christianity

Freemasonry evolved from the guilds of stonemasons and cathedral builders of the Middle Ages, gradually adopting rituals and symbols drawn from ancient religious orders. Today, it functions as a worldwide, men-only, oath-bound fraternity that emphasizes fellowship, moral discipline, and mutual aid, while supporting various charitable endeavors. However, despite the participation of many individuals who identify as Christians, the foundational beliefs of Freemasonry are incompatible with biblical Christianity.

One of the central tenets of Freemasonry is belief in the Great Architect of the Universe (GAOTU), presented as a generic Supreme Being who represents the divine in all religions. This syncretistic view allows members to interpret the GAOTU according to their own religious background — whether Christian, Muslim, Hindu, or otherwise. This pluralistic theology directly contradicts the exclusive claims of Scripture, which declares that salvation is found in no one else but Jesus Christ (Acts 4:12). Notably, the name of Jesus is deliberately omitted from any biblical passages used in Masonic rituals, further distancing the practice from genuine Christian worship.

Freemasonry promotes a gospel of good works and moral improvement as a path to divine favor, which stands in opposition to the biblical doctrine of salvation by grace through faith (Eph 2:8,9). It also leans toward universalism — the belief that all people will ultimately be saved — another doctrine that conflicts with clear biblical teaching on judgment and eternal destiny (Mt 7:13,14; Jn 3:18).

A Christian’s Call to Separation

calls believers to test all teachings against Scripture (1 Jn 4:1). Freemasonry, with its secretive nature, ritualistic practices, and syncretistic theology, fails this test.

Satan often uses deception to draw people away from the truth, and the influence of Freemasonry can extend beyond the individual, affecting families and future generations (Ex 20:5). The organization’s emphasis on loyalty to the Lodge can create divided allegiances, undermining a believer’s primary commitment to Christ.

Given its unbiblical doctrines and practices, Christians are called to separation from any organization connected to Freemasonry. The Bible is our sole authority for faith and practice, and anything that contradicts its teachings must be rejected (Prov 16:25).

Reflection and Application:

• Consider how the call to “test all things” (1 Thess 5:21) applies to organizations like Freemasonry — are their teachings aligned with Scripture?
• Reflect on the danger of divided loyalty: can a believer fully follow Christ while bound by oaths to a secret society?
• Examine your own spiritual influences — do any practices or affiliations subtly compromise the exclusivity of Christ?
• Pray for those involved in Freemasonry, that God would open their eyes to the truth of the gospel and set them free from spiritual deception.

See also: bondage, deception, deliverance, family line.