08-26-2008, 09:12 AM
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 | Puritanboard Postgraduate | | Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Cary, NC
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I realize this post is not about Mr Graham but only to supplement what Mr Mingo has reported. We really need to keep the Ninth Commandment in view here and apply charity, especially toward those in the household of faith, especially toward teaching elders here.
The ministry cephasministry.com (I gather is much opposed to secret fraternities, etc) reports their response to whether Mr Graham is a Mason from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association:
"We have received this response from Don Kinde, answering these three questions; and then Mr. Kinde went a bit further in supplying information. In this response, Don Kinde of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association categorically denied that Mr. Graham was a Freemason. We reprint this email in its entirety." Quote:
"Dear ----,
Thank you for your e-mail message regarding Freemasonry. My answer was to the question of Dr. Graham's view of and involvement with Freemasonry. I will respond to your three questions:
1. BGEA does not have an official position on Freemasonry. Mr. Graham's response that he is not, has not, and does not expect ever to be involved in Freemasonry is as close to any policy that we have.
2. Freemasons do not have compatible beliefs with fundamental Christianity.
3. We would not suggest that a person take an oath of Freemasonry.
----, let me share a bit more with you for your information. Many Christians do not believe that a Christian should be a member of a secret lodge, and ministers often strongly oppose such membership. At the same time, it must be recognized that there are Christians who are members of lodges. As to the degree of their commitment to Christ as Lord, we would not be able to judge; only the Lord knows the heart.
As we have said, Mr. Graham is not a member of any lodge. Part of his conviction is that a proper fulfillment of one's obligations to the church should fulfill any need that one has for this type of organization. All too often lodges and fraternal organizations compete with the exercise of one's gifts in the church, and take up time that could be more wisely invested in
one's family. If a husband and wife are not in mutual agreement concerning membership in a lodge, a serious rift can occur in their relationship because of the nature of fraternal organizations and involvement with them.
If a lodge or club denies the Triune God, or the deity and atoning sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ, or teaches that we can find salvation through our own meritorious good deeds, or interferes in any way with the service of a Christian to his Lord or to his church, that organization should have no appeal for a Christian. We are expected by God to use wisdom in deciding whether or not to be a member of any organization. The Bible says, "If any of you lacks wisdom, 'he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him' (James 1:5)."
"Regarding the issue of beliefs, in A CONCISE DICTIONARY OF CULTS & RELIGIONS
by William Watson (Moody, 1991), the following information about Freemasonry is given:
Also known as Masons and Masonic Lodge. . . . 'Teaches that all religions are one and that there are many gods who are considered equal to Jesus. Masonic literature denies that Jesus is the only savior of the world and rejects Christ's death on the cross as God's sole remedy for sin. Salvation depends on works, not faith in God. The sacred books of many religions are regarded equally as revelations from God. Other helpful books are: MASONS: WHAT THEY BELIEVE by Harold J. Berry and THE FACTS ON THE MASONIC LODGE: DOES MASONRY CONFLICT WITH THE CHRISTIAN FAITH? by John Ankerberg and John Weldon. You may find these at most Christian bookstores. You may also want to contact Free the Masons Ministries, P. O. Box 1077, Issaquah, Washington 98027, for further information."
"May the Lord bless you richly and give you His wisdom and discernment as you share in His kingdom work. We pray that the Lord will enrich your life, filling you with all joy and peace in believing."
"Sincerely,
Don Kinde
Christian Guidance Department
Billy Graham Evangelistic Association"
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