# Freemasonry

> Claims that come up in conversation about Freemasonry, with a short answer and the texts to open.

Page: https://apologetics.wiki/common-arguments/freemasonry

Hub: https://apologetics.wiki/common-arguments

Shelf: https://apologetics.wiki/freemasonry

### Freemasonry is a men’s fraternity for friendship and charity, nothing more.

What you will hear.

The published rituals include an altar, prayers to the Great Architect of the Universe, oaths on the Bible, and a degree that speaks of being raised to the faith of salvation.

Texts: [Duncan’s Masonic Ritual (1866)](https://archive.org/details/duncan-s-masonic-ritual), [UGLE Information Booklet](https://www.ugle.org.uk/sites/default/files/media/file/information-booklet-mar2024_download.pdf)

[Read the Full Answer](https://apologetics.wiki/freemasonry/what-is-freemasonry)

### Grand lodges say Masonry is neither a religion nor a substitute for religion, so a Christian can join.

What you will hear.

Mackey called Masonry an eminently religious institution and Pike called every lodge a temple of religion; most churches that have studied it reject membership.

Texts: [Mackey, Encyclopaedia (1874)](https://archive.org/details/cu31924030273175), [Pike, Morals and Dogma (1871)](https://archive.org/details/cu31924030324978), [John 14:6](https://apologetics.wiki/bible/john/14/6)

[Read the Full Answer](https://apologetics.wiki/freemasonry/can-a-christian-be-a-freemason)

### Many respected pastors and church leaders have been Masons, so it must be compatible with Christianity.

What you will hear.

The 1993 Southern Baptist report named Masonic Baptist leaders and still found many Masonic teachings incompatible with Christianity.

Texts: [SBC Annual 1993](http://media2.sbhla.org.s3.amazonaws.com/annuals/SBC_Annual_1993.pdf)

[Read the Full Answer](https://apologetics.wiki/freemasonry/what-churches-say-about-freemasonry)