Furthermore, to continue the analogy, it is the spirit, or higher part of man, that controls, directs, and supplies the motive power for the body, being the vital mainspring of that wondrous piece of machinery, whose functions are forwarded by the animation resulting from union and normal operation. Even so is it the Melchizedek Priesthood, holding the right of presidency, which controls, influences, and directs the entire body of the Church, delegating, however, a portion of its authority to the Lesser Priesthood, that it likewise may possess and wield its legitimate powers, and execute fully the purposes for which it was designed. The Channel of Revelation.--Speaking of the eternity of the Priesthood, the Prophet Joseph says: "Its institution was prior to the foundation of this earth, or the morning stars sang together, or the Sons of God shouted for joy,' and is the highest and holiest Priesthood, and is after the order of the Son of God, and all other priesthoods are only parts, ramifications, powers and blessings belonging to the same, and are held, controlled, and directed by it. It is the channel through which the Almighty commenced revealing his glory at the beginning of the creation of this earth, and through which he has continued to reveal himself to the children of men to the present time, and through which he will make known his purposes to the end of time."--("History of the Church," Vol. IV, p. 207.) Adam's Position.--In another place, the Prophet thus continues: "The Priesthood was first given to Adam; he obtained the First Presidency, and held the keys of it from generation to generation. He obtained it in the creation, before the world was formed [that is, in the spiritual creation, before the temporal world was formed]. He had dominion given him over every living creature. He is Michael the Archangel, spoken of in the scriptures."--("History of the Church," Vol. III, pp. 385, 386.) Noah Next to Adam.--"Then to Noah, who is Gabriel; he stands next in authority to Adam in the Priesthood; he was called of God to this office, and was the father of all living in his day, and to him was given the dominion. These men held keys first on earth, and then in heaven."--(Ibid, p. 386.) An Everlasting Principle.--"The Priesthood is an everlasting principle, and existed with God from eternity, and will to eternity, without beginning of days or end of years. The keys have to be brought from heaven whenever the gospel is sent. When they are revealed from heaven, it is by Adam's authority. * * * * * * * * * * * Succession and Descent.--"The Savior, Moses, and Elias gave the keys to Peter, James and John, on the mount, when they were transfigured before Him. * * * How have we come at the Priesthood in the last days? It came down, down, in regular succession. Peter, James and John had it given to them, and they gave it to others. Christ is the Great High Priest: Adam next."--(Ibid, 386-388.)