If one teaches the principles of moral conduct then to demonstrate their worth, he must observe them. To set an example to the learner is the proper way to teach any truth. Ill-begotten wealth, immorality, wrongful influence are the results of lives spent in unbridled pretense of justice. By their actions, these priests led King Noah's people to commit all manner of sin and grow in wickedness. To warn them of the punishment that was in store for them if they did not repent, the Lord sent Abinadi.