This verse should be read with the last sentence of verse 30: “Wherefore, if they should have charity they would not suffer the laborer in Zion to perish. But the laborer in Zion shall labor for Zion; for if they labor for money they shall perish.” Who is the laborer in Zion? It is someone engaged in Yahweh’s work. In contrast, priestcrafters are laboring, not for Zion, but for money. Nephi is not condemning paid clergy per se but rather unworthy motives. Priestcrafters want “gain and praise of the world; but they seek not the welfare of Zion” (v. 29).