Helaman 2

Again, Mormon provides a warning in our day. As Helaman is appointed to fill the judgement seat as the chief judge -

"...Kishkumen, who had murdered Pahoran, did lay wait to destroy Helaman also; and he was upheld by his band, who had entered into a covenant that no one should know his wickedness." (Book of Mormon | Helaman 2:3)

What was the motive of this band of wickeness. we learn -

"...there was one Gadianton, who was exceedingly expert in many words, and also in his craft, to carry on the secret work of murder and of robbery; therefore he became the leader of the band of Kishkumen." (Book of Mormon | Helaman 2:4)

It seems that wickedness is always the consequence of lust for power, materialism, and immorality. It seems the natural man can be easily persuaded in these matters as Gadianton -

"...did flatter them, and also Kishkumen, that if they would place him in the judgment-seat he would grant unto those who belonged to his band that they should be placed in power and authority among the people; therefore Kishkumen sought to destroy Helaman." (Book of Mormon | Helaman 2:5)

In our day, we are counseled to live righteously and in regards to those that lead us we are told -

"...I, the Lord God, make you free, therefore ye are free indeed; and the law also maketh you free.
9 Nevertheless, when the wicked rule the people mourn.
10 Wherefore, honest men and wise men should be sought for diligently, and good men and wise men ye should observe to uphold; otherwise whatsoever is less than these cometh of evil." (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 98:8 - 10)