S. Michael Houdmann Supporter Got Questions Ministries

As with any question of proper inclination and conduct, a Christian must first have laid down a solid foundation of principles based on God's wisdom through His Spirit (John 14:26; 16:13-14; 1 John...

Login or Sign Up to view the rest of this answer.

October 06 2014 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Jeffrey Johnson Supporter

Should a Christian be a member of a secret society?

Most Christian traditions and theologians advise against joining secret societies, arguing that oaths of secrecy, works-based theology, and "hidden truths" conflict with transparency, the exclusive lordship of Jesus Christ, and the gospel message found in the Bible. Organisations like Freemasonry are frequently criticised for promoting a universalist theology and for requiring oaths that can supersede Christian loyalty. 

Secret societies often involve oaths and vows, which some interpretations of Matthew 5:34-37 prohibit, and they may promote a religion that is not centred on salvation through Christ alone.

The Bible emphasises open, communal worship (Hebrews 10:24-25), whereas secret societies often operate in isolation or in secrecy, which can undermine a believer's commitment to the body of Christ.

Many secret societies, including Freemasonry, have been accused of teaching that salvation is achieved through good works or that all religions are equal, which contradicts the fundamental Christian doctrine of salvation by grace through faith. This is seen as incompatible with the biblical claim that Jesus is the only way to salvation (John 14:6).

The primary concern is that the inherent secrecy and specific requirements of these groups often conflict with Christian teachings on transparency, the exclusivity of Christ, and the nature of spiritual oaths.

Christians must evaluate if the organisation's goals and "fruits" align with the Bible's call to humility and love for God above all else.

Following Bible principles is the surest way to avoid dangerous groups whose motives are less than honourable. (Isaiah 30:21) This involves maintaining political neutrality, showing love to others, even to enemies, avoiding "the works of the flesh," and cultivating the fruitage of God's spirit. Above all, true Christians must be no part of the world, even as Jesus was no part, and this course precludes participating in worldly secret societies.—Galatians 5:19-23; John 17:14, 16; 18:36; Romans 12:17-21; James 4:4.

In Matthew 6:24, Jesus said, "No one can serve two masters."

The term "secret society" is apt. They are secretive.

If they won't tell you their organisation's secrets, there is probably a good reason. It is probably because they would be ashamed to. Ashamed that you and they would both know that the secrets would collapse under analysis from the Christian perspective. There is no such thing as a True Christian-based Secret Society. 

Oaths and Vows:

Jesus, in the Sermon on the Mount, instructed his followers not to "swear at all" but to let their "Yes" be "Yes," and their "No," "No" (Matthew 5:34-37). This teaching is echoed in James 5:12. Many secret societies require members to take complex, often hidden oaths or pledges that conflict with the biblical mandate for simple honesty and integrity.

Allegiance and Fellowship: 

Scripture emphasises a Christian's ultimate and undivided allegiance to Christ above all else (Matthew 6:24, Colossians 1:18).

Jesus' Example: Jesus stated, "I have spoken openly to the world... I said nothing in secret" (John 18:20).

Walking in Light: Believers are commanded to "walk as children of light" (Ephesians 5:8) and to have "nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them" (Ephesians 5:11).

Universal Truth: The Bible teaches that "nothing is hidden that will not be made known" (Luke 8:17), suggesting that the pursuit of "hidden" or "esoteric" knowledge contradicts the Gospel's openness.

Conclusion:

The Bible warns against "unequal yoking" and placing any commitment above one's devotion to God. 

The Book of James strongly condemns showing favouritism, arguing that believers should treat everyone with equal love and justice, rather than favouring members of a specific "inner circle."

3 days ago • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report