Merging visible layers in Illustrator?

If I have a template layer (usually locked) on the bottom layer and two or three active layers above it, how do I merge the three non template layers onto one? In the hamburger list in the layers tab, there is a "flatten artwork" command, but even when I have the bottom template layer turned off, it merges all of the working layers onto the template layer.

Photoshop has a function called "merge visible", which works well and disregards hidden layers. Looking for something similar in Illustrator. 

Thanks in advance. MJ