Joining Secret Societies
“Jesus answered him, “I spoke openly to the world. I always taught in synagogues and in the temple, where the Jews always meet, and in secret I have said nothing.”
John 18:20
Christ taught His disciples to do nothing in secret and to be a light in the world. He said, “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:14–16).
Light exposes darkness because God is light. “This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all” (1 John 1:5). Darkness is a symbol of sin and death. “And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil” (John 3:19).
The nature of secret societies is contrary to the nature of the Christian faith. The Bible is an open book that offers free knowledge for all to God’s plan of salvation (Revelation 22:17). And everyone is welcome without restrictions.
In contrast, secret societies welcome only a restricted number usually the elite. These members get involved in secret ceremonies with the philosophy to channel activities to the improving of the natural part of humankind instead of changing the evil heart into God’s image (Genesis 1:26,27).
Therefore, the Christian must not be unequally yoked with unbelievers by joining their secret societies (2 Corinthians 6:14-18). He should not pledge himself to unscriptural secret oaths and to using the name of God in vain (Exodus 20:7; Matthew 5:34-37).
Also he should not follow teachings that are not in harmony with the word of God and are often pagan, occultic, spiritualistic, and evil (2 Peter 3:16). Instead he should be rooted and grounded in the truth and the testimony of His prophets (John 14:26; 16:13–14).
To those that are involved in secret societies, the Lord calls His people out and says, “be separate… Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you” (2 Corinthians 6:17). And in Revelation 18:4, the Lord says, “Come out of her, my people, lest you share in her sins, and lest you receive of her plagues.”
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In His service,
BibleAsk Team
