Alma 1 : Priest Craft in Active Members, 5 Virgins in Need of Oil

Nevertheless, this did not put an end to the spreading of priest craft through the land; for there were many who loved the vain things of the world, and they went forth preaching false doctrines; and this they did for the sake of riches and honor. Nevertheless, they durst not lie, if it were known, for fear of the law, for liars were punished; therefore they pretended to preach according to their belief; and now the law could have no power on any man for his belief.  And they durst not steal, for fear of the law, for such were punished; neither durst they rob, nor murder, for he that murdered was punished unto death (16-18).

Those who practice priest craft were law abiding, upstanding citizens with erroneous believes.  Under the conditions of the law they were good men. Instead of considering the law of man, consider the law to be the commandments. From this perspective it follows that there are members in the church fulfilling every action, but operating under erroneous believes that prevent them from receiving the strength of the Lord. Theses would be considered the five virgins without oil when the bride groom arrives.

And when the priest had imparted unto them the word of God they all returned again diligently unto their labors; and the priest, not esteeming himself above his hearers (26)

And they did impart of their substance, every man according to that which he had…they did not wear costly apparel, yet they were neat and comely (V.27).

And thus, in their prosperous circumstances, they did not send away any who were naked, or that were hungry…therefore they were liberal to all, both old and young, both bond and free, both male and female, whether out of the church or in the church, having no respect to persons as to those who stood in need(V. 30).

In contrast to those who practice priest craft, the people of God are described by how they act and how the act towards each other, rather than how they don’t act, or don’t break the law. The people of God prospered and received the strength of the Lord because they kept the commandments, lived off their own labor, esteemed each other equally, dressed modestly, and took care of the poor regardless of who they are.    

In striving to keep the commandments and live the gospel of Jesus Christ, it is necessary to take time and reflect upon the construct of our underlying beliefs. A good temperature check is to observe how we treat and esteem others. To ensure a lamp is full of oil, obedience to the commandments should foster a charity towards our fellow men not just an avoidance of punishment.