The church had by this time become greatly corrupted. When Constantine professed Christianity, it became the popular religion. In order to serve in the army or in the courts, or hold any official position, men had to profess to be Christians; and Gibbon declares that many did this, but continued to worship their idols in secret. Vast numbers joined the church. The bishops sought high positions, wealth, and place, dressing in gorgeous attire, and there was very little resemblance indeed between religion then and in the days of persecution. ChSa 89.5