| dc.description.abstract | Paul R. Zager’s 1982 paper examines the religious nature of fraternal lodges—especially Freemasonry—and evaluates them in light of biblical doctrine. Drawing extensively from lodge publications and rituals, Zager argues that lodges promote a deistic, universalist religion incompatible with Christianity. He highlights lodge teachings on salvation by works, symbolic reinterpretation of Scripture, and exclusionary practices, showing how they contradict core biblical truths about grace, faith, and Christ’s atonement. The paper also compares lodge beliefs to ancient Gnosticism and outlines specific Bible passages that refute lodge doctrines. Zager urges pastors and Christians to confront lodge membership as a spiritual issue, emphasizing the need for informed, compassionate witness. He concludes that lodge participation constitutes fellowship with false religion and calls for clear biblical teaching to guide members and prospects away from such organizations.
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