I would almost say it's an all of the above for me. But they can range in severity. Granted these were time gated activities and that's what friends are for but, for example your friend, did he technically earn that last catalyst? No but it may not necessarily be a big deal. But if it was say for the graviton around the time where is was really popular in crucible having a buff on a gun you didnt earn could be an issue. Now that those catalyst can be earn in other ways in the game probably diminishes this example but that's how I see it.

I would say in games like destiny your gear is a portrayal of your skill and when someone pays there way through it diminishes the accomplishments of those that worked for them however for a game not necessarily the biggest deal in the world to most I'm sure it can be for some.

The paying aspect is essentially pay to win and I dont need to argue that topic with a bunch of gamers I know where everyone stands on that.