Nephi defines priestcraft as using one’s position as a teacher of the gospel for personal gain and praise of the world. Nephi declares that those who are looking out for themselves are not seeking the welfare of Zion.
Nephi also contrasts the quality of charity with the sin of priestcraft. Where one should have charity, they should not be enriching themselves on the faith of others. Nephi recognizes that caring for the welfare of Zion is work, but it is work that should not be done for personal profit.