The Masonic Christian Conflict Explained Paperback – January 1, 1993 by Keith Harris
 
From the Inside Flap
There is at present in the Christian community, a growing interest revolving around memberships apart from the church, the Masonic Lodge. This interest is rapidly plunging into conflict. If you are a long-time lodge member, church member, or both, you owe it to yourself to be informed concerning this important issue.
As the adept beliefs and teachings of Masonry continue to stream to the forefront, the attributes which separate Masonry from Christianity become ever apparent. These revelations combat one of the most common beliefs among the Masons-that the Masonic Lodge is a Christian organization.
This "Christian" conclusion has been stimulated as many ministers and laymen deepen themselves within Masonic ranks. Although their membership is not the foremost reason which entice men to become members, it is without doubt a principle attraction, especially among other church members who may consider lodge membership. Such persuasion, among other things, has brought the order to the front as the world's largest Fraternal Organization.
Freemasonry, as it is also known, is an international secret fraternity based on "morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols." Witholding secrets from outsiders and members of inferior degree ushers the title "secret society" and this alone, for Freemasonry is not a hidden organization.
Masonic literature tells us "the history of Masonry is the history of philosophy" (M&D pg. 540). This "speculative inquiry concerning the source and nature of human knowledge," is taught degree by degree through ritual and oath. Candidates are led through initiation in search of "light."
The word "free" was added to "Masonry" to distinguish between Operative and Speculative Masonry. We find this under the heading "Free" in the Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, written by Albert Mackey 33rd degree and Charles T. McClenachan 33rd degree: "The word "free" in connection with "Mason" originally signified that the person so called was free of the company or gild of incorporated Masons."
With the exception of progressive alterations, Freemasonry is identical to the ancient mystery religions (M&D pg. 624), especially that of ancient Egypt. Although the era of Solomon's temple plays a large part in Masonic lore, much symbolism, appellation, and ritual descend from Egyptian legend. Freemasonry preserves the traditional practice of Old Testament Baal worship. This is reviewed in chapter five.
Although it is wholly uncongenial with the spirit of the order to persuade anyone to join, many members take it upon themselves to urge friends or relatives to do so. Chances are, you have been persuaded, directly or indirectly, to become a member.
This book is not such solicitation. It is, however, a packet of information designed to reveal Masonic doctrine as is displayed by much respected and distinguished Masonic authorities, comparing that to biblical principles.
Although the works of several Masonic writers are herein quoted, this work is in no way intended to tarnish or bring degradation to their personal character or the character of other individuals in lodge affiliation. The reference works used are for reference and just that, due in particular, for their authenticity.
Thomas Jefferson once said, "men are inherently capable of making proper judgments when they are properly informed" (The Art Of Speaking, Elson,Peck). This book is such an effort, to inform you of both sides of the issue on grounds pertinent to the ever-growing Masonic-Christian Conflict.
 
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