I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the Gospel from the first day until now. Philippians 1:3-5 (NIV)
The term ‘mutualism’ refers to a relationship in biology or sociology which is mutually beneficial to two living things. Many animals have developed mutually beneficial relationships with each other. “You scratch my back, and I’ll scratch yours,” say plenty of animals. For example, oxpeckers and zebras. Nobody likes to be covered in ticks, not even zebras. So these large mammals are happy when oxpecker birds hang out of their backs, eating the bugs and parasites which irritate their skin. The zebras are free from pesky pests, and the birds get delicious meals through a readily available source of food. Also, when there is a danger to the zebra the oxpecker flies high and makes much noise in order to alert nearby animals to the impending danger (i.e. a predator).
Another mutually beneficial relationship is found between the clownfish and sea anemone. Clownfish live within the protective tentacles of the sea anemone. In return, the sea anemone receives cleaning and protection from the clownfish.
Paul wrote to the Philippians in 1:3, thanking God for the partnership with Philippian Christians in sharing the gospel. He emphasized the importance of partnership when he said that we are “God’s fellow workers”. Paul ‘walked his talk’ when it came to partnerships in ministry. Throughout his life, he personally demonstrated the principle of partnership and he succinctly summarized this principle when he wrote:
I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. 1 Corinthians 3:6 (NIV)
He told us to encourage one another and build each other up on a daily basis. Live in harmony with one another. Love one another. Accept one another. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Spur one another on toward love and good deeds.
May our relationships with our fellow believers be mutually beneficial. May we be encouraged and be encouragers as we realise our partnership in the gospel.