Listen: 50 Question 4

The Illuminati, meaning “the people of the light”, generally refers to several groups and to prevailing conspiracy theories about some of these groups’ importance or continued influence in the world. Most specifically, they were a radical group in founded in Bavaria in 1776.  Other related groups from other countries later formed.

The Illuminati, as well as its offshoot groups, was a secret society, to which many politicians and intellectuals were drawn. The Society of Masons was thought to have close ties with the Illuminati, and many Masons joined the Illuminati. Some Mason groups felt that they were religiously conflicted because many of the other group’s members were atheists.  Some believe that the Illuminati still exists today and has a great influence on our culture, politics, and religious organizations.

It’s hard to speak knowingly about their existence and influence because it is such a secretive group.  While many people are suspected of being in the Illuminati, there is no way to verify that because of the secrecy of the group.  As a result of this secrecy, there are many theories about the conduct, goals and influences of this group on our culture.  Many believe it is a satanic group that seeks to influence the world away from the Lord.

I have no personal knowledge of the Illuminati.  However, the scriptures do warn against doing secretive things.  Creating great secrecy gives the impression of dishonesty or wrong doing.  1 Thessalonians 5:22 tells us to, “Abstain from all appearance of evil.”  All that we do should be open and above board.  The Lord Jesus said of Himself in John 18:20, “I spake openly to the world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing.”

To swear an oath to secrecy, or for anything else, is against scripture.  James 5:12 says, “But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath: but let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation.”  “Swear not at all” is pretty emphatic, isn’t it?  We should always speak the truth and that would negate any need of taking an oath.  Even our court systems still respect the conscience of those who believe we should not swear, or take an oath.  If you are asked to swear to tell the truth in a court of law, you are permitted to simply affirm, or promise, that you will tell the truth without swearing on a Bible.

I have no idea of how much the Illuminati has influenced our society.  I do know that, as believers on the Lord Jesus Christ, our influence and direction should come from the Word of God.  Psalms 119:105 says, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”  Psalms 31:3 says, “For thou art my rock and my fortress; therefore for thy name’s sake lead me, and guide me.”

May we learn to be like David who wrote in Psalms 139:23-24, “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”  No matter what other groups do, whether they are secret or not, may we be led of the Lord by being in His Word, seeking His council and direction, and bowing to His authority as our Lord and Master.  (50.4)