Realize It Takes Time

Lodge halls seem to have few windows.  People cannot look in, and members may find it difficult at times to look out.  It takes time to understand.

People join the Lodge for many reasons, some of which may have occurred decades in the past.  Some join the Lodge to develop relationships, while others join to help in beneficial endeavors.  Some are following the steps of a relative, while others want to network in the community.  The ritual itself may not be important to them; it is seen as an unnecessary encumbrance.  Few are the people who remember every nuance of the degree work and ritual.  Symbols are given a measure of ambiguity and seem to develop in later degrees.  Thus, it would seem difficult to comprehend the complexity of spiritual crosscurrents during initiation. 

For this reason, it takes time to comprehend the conflict between Christ and the teachings of the Lodge.  It does not happen overnight.

People are generally guarded when questions are raised concerning associations.  Masons generally have an idea that an uneasy relationship exists between the Lodge and historic Christianity, but they may not understand why.  Some Masons are only loosely affiliated with a church and may not understand Scripture.  Others have a casual foot in both worlds and really do not understand either very well.  Most Lodge members understand that anti-Masonic books have been published, but they are generally taught that they are all the work of fanatics.  I wonder how many have actually read these books and how many have instead merely listened to an officer in the Lodge assure them there is no problem with the Lodge and Jesus. 

Unfortunately, some Lodge members have stopped asking questions about paganism in their organization.  They just don't care.  There is no danger in learning what the Lodge actually teaches.  Truth can stand on its own feet.  There is no danger in learning what Scripture teaches on the topic and comparing both systems. 

Relationships behind closed doors are tight and bound by oaths.  It takes time to understand, but it is worth the effort.