A little research makes it clear that embracing the 'concept' of religion and 'use' it to achieve an apotheosis state has long been the goal of man for countless ages.
I'm beginning to to feel that CT Russell was perhaps no different. Apotheosis requires a very important element (universal in ALL religions) that not only 'validates' X version of a religion, but catapults its leader/s into the 'stratosphere'. This element is a 'symbol', an object or thing connecting the leader here on earth with X god in heaven. (catholic church for example swear Peter's bones are underneath the vatican).
Was Russell looking for said symbol as well? Did he go to Egypt hoping to find an artifact or object on or near the pyramids that would validate his interpretations? The Egyptians had a very powerful symbol, the pyramids (perfectly and mathematically lined up underneath specific constelations no less), thus Russell might of attempted to 'steal' or commandeer this symbol for his own.
the problem was, these symbols were already taken, by the egyptians. therefore, Russell's attempts at transferring this symbol's meaning onto his interpretations were rather weak, to say the least.
he WAS however, in my opinion, on the right idea. just clumsy execution.