The Religion of the Bible and of the Lodges

Abstract

John F. Brug’s essay critically examines the religious teachings of fraternal lodges—such as Freemasonry, the Elks, Moose, and Odd Fellows—by comparing them with biblical doctrine. While many lodges claim to be non-religious, Brug highlights their use of religious symbols, rituals, and language, and cites lodge sources that affirm their religious nature. He identifies key theological conflicts: lodges promote a universalist view of God and salvation, deny the exclusivity of Jesus Christ as Savior, and teach moralism and works-righteousness rather than salvation by grace through faith. Brug also critiques lodge oaths, limited moral obligations, and prayers that omit Christ’s name. He concludes that lodge teachings are incompatible with biblical Christianity and that Christians cannot consistently uphold both. The essay urges believers to confess Christ openly and warns against compromising faith for social or fraternal affiliation. Abstract prepared by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4).