One of the reasons - if not the main reason - why Progressivism was able to spread almost unopposed within the Evangelical Churches was the close and centuries-long entanglement between Protestantism and Freemasonry.
First, I agree with you that Masonry and some forms of Protestantism have connections. I'd also agree that Masonry and biblical Christianity are diametrically opposed to each other. But, does every person who can be labeled a Mason, teach and believe Masonry? I think historically of W. A. Mozart and J. Haydn. Both were technically Masons. Mozart wrote a number of pieces for Masonic ritual use, including K. 148/125h, K. 429/468a, K. 468, K. 471, along with several others, not to mention "The Magic Flute" which is regarded as being rife with Masonic symbolism. Haydn: not so much. As historians can best tell, it appears Haydn attended only one Masonic meeting: his initiation. To paraphrase David L. Gray-he has researched the subject extensively-Mozart found a home and fame with the Masons, while Haydn realized he'd been duped into joining a pagan religion. Interestingly, Haydn is on record as saying he served God joyfully (one thinks of his late work: "The Creation"). My point is that I hope in your upcoming blog entries you will provide specifics in terms of ways that Warfield and Machen mixed Masonic doctrine in with their biblical teaching. I should add that overall, I very much appreciate your blogging.
First, I agree with you that Masonry and some forms of Protestantism have connections. I'd also agree that Masonry and biblical Christianity are diametrically opposed to each other. But, does every person who can be labeled a Mason, teach and believe Masonry? I think historically of W. A. Mozart and J. Haydn. Both were technically Masons. Mozart wrote a number of pieces for Masonic ritual use, including K. 148/125h, K. 429/468a, K. 468, K. 471, along with several others, not to mention "The Magic Flute" which is regarded as being rife with Masonic symbolism. Haydn: not so much. As historians can best tell, it appears Haydn attended only one Masonic meeting: his initiation. To paraphrase David L. Gray-he has researched the subject extensively-Mozart found a home and fame with the Masons, while Haydn realized he'd been duped into joining a pagan religion. Interestingly, Haydn is on record as saying he served God joyfully (one thinks of his late work: "The Creation"). My point is that I hope in your upcoming blog entries you will provide specifics in terms of ways that Warfield and Machen mixed Masonic doctrine in with their biblical teaching. I should add that overall, I very much appreciate your blogging.
We’re speechless...about Machen and Warfield especially. Any sources for us to read with more information or names?
In addition to your book, of course!