Symbiotic and Parasitic Growth
AnalogyNature Nugget★★★★SYMBIOTIC growth is the growth that occurs between two organisms where both benefit. Parasitic growth is growth that occurs in one organism because it’s feeding off of another. Christians must ask themselves how they are functioning in the organism of the Body of Christ.
Am I a spiritual parasite? Sing to me. Preach to me. Pray for me. Counsel me. Help me, but expect nothing from me. That is a parasite. A Christian interested in symbiotic growth says, “Yes, I have needs, but I’m willing to give too because everyone needs to benefit.”49
Also attributed to: Unknown
The point
Contrasts symbiotic and parasitic growth in nature as a metaphor for Christian community, challenging believers to contribute rather than merely consume.
The lesson
We should contribute to the church, not just take from it.