Temples, Part 2

Shawn McCraney critically examines the differences between Mormon beliefs and classic Biblical Christianity, particularly emphasizing how LDS revelations and temple practices focus on human exaltation rather than God’s worship. He further explores the universal human tendency to idolize entities other than God, illustrating that such worship inevitably limits individuals to the nature of what they idolize, emphasizing the need to redirect worship to God as the true source of guidance and fulfillment.

Advancements like the Industrial Revolution, aviation, and medical discoveries often bring unintended negative consequences, illustrating humanity's struggle to genuinely improve society while underscoring a reliance on self rather than faith, as exhibited by organizations such as Freemasonry. Freemasonry originated from medieval stonemason guilds, which were valued for their freedom and secrecy, eventually evolving into a fraternal organization focused on community and power, impacting concepts like the "exaltation of man" within groups such as present-day Mormonism.

Freemasonry evolved from trade-based secret societies in the 14th century to a prominent fraternal organization in early America, with rituals and degrees symbolizing personal growth, community bonding, and moral development. Historical figures like Benjamin Franklin and Joseph Smith were involved in Freemasonry, which influenced social structures and even religious practices in the United States, though it faced significant conflict and decline due to internal strife and external controversies.

Joseph Smith joined the Masonic order on March 15, 1842, and quickly progressed to the highest degree, exhibiting parallels between Masonic rituals and LDS temple practices such as the use of signs, symbols, and specific clothing. The teachings reinforced the significance of certain verbiage and actions in both traditions, linking concepts like worthiness, admission, and enlightenment.

Shawn's teaching explores the connections between Mormonism and freemasonry, highlighting parallels in language, practices, and symbolism across the Masonic rites of the first, second, and third degrees. Key points include the use of similar temple verbiage and practices, references to celestial themes, and the importance of rituals in both traditions, reflecting an intertwined relationship between the two.

Shawn questions the origin of the temple practices in LDS beliefs, asking whether they are divinely inspired or creations of man to elevate human stature. He encourages self-reflection on whether attending the temple fosters humility and reliance on Jesus or creates a sense of superiority, prompting believers to consider the characteristics Jesus expects from His followers.