Before I do that, I'd like to offer up one quick connection I found which helps shed light on secret combinations in the Book of Mormon.
In a section titled "The Abuse of Knowledge" (pp. 45-51), Barker outlines how fallen angels fit into the original temple theology. In short, these deceivers teach fallen men in the ways of sin and shift their focus to the material world. In addition, they teach men secret oaths to hide their works of darkness. This is a corruption of the everlasting covenant (which is also hidden from plain view, but for completely different reasons). The list of sins includes making weapons and war, fornication, precious metals, jewels, pride, cosmetics (see an interesting note about that in this post), predicting the future/sorcery, etc. In other words, materialism, haughtiness, and greed.
I can't help but see these elements in Nephi's writings, specifically when he mentions secret combinations:
20 And the Gentiles are lifted up in the pride of their eyes, and have stumbled, because of the greatness of their stumbling block, that they have built up many churches; nevertheless, they put down the power and miracles of God, and preach up unto themselves their own wisdom and their own learning, that they may get gain and grind upon the face of the poor.
21 And there are many churches built up which cause envyings, and strifes, and malice.
22 And there are also secret combinations, even as in times of old, according to the combinations of the devil, for he is the founder of all these things; yea, the founder of murder, and works of darkness; yea, and he leadeth them by the neck with a flaxen cord, until he bindeth them with his strong cords forever. (2 Nephi 26)
