by Todd Elder at Exploring Creation
One way to define a fellowship is a group of believers who interact with each other for the benefit of each other. This interaction requires a relationship with one another not just on a physical level but on a spiritual level as well. This functions much better in smaller groups since this allows individuals to know each other more personally and be more responsive to what is happening in their lives. They are able to listen to the needs of another, take the time to pray, encourage people in difficult times, and care for each other in ways not possible in large groups or while under the authority of one person.
The authority within a fellowship usually stays within the limits of a family unit. The man has authority over his wife and children. The wife has authority over her children. However, it is possible for a person to submit to another person's authority outside of the family unit when there is a need for ministering or discipleship. Keep in mind, this type of situation should not be entered into lightly and should only be done with a mature believer who has shown themselves to be solid in their faith. In such a situation, a man should not be an authority over a woman who is not his wife and a woman should not be an authority over a man. It is best for men to work with men and women to work with women when authority is involved.
Men, women, and children can come together as a group to worship the Almighty. The different forms of worship such as singing, praising, reading Scripture, and sharing testimony are appropriate within a mixed group. The people in that group all come together on an equal level without one being an authority over another.
A large percentage of the help that one believer needs from another believer comes in the form of asking for information and advice. This can be done in a small or large group and even in a mixed setting because no authority is involved. In this form, one person can ask a question and a few others, men or women, who are able to answer may do so because they are sharing their experience or wisdom. This is vastly different from preaching where the preacher teaches what he or she thinks is important and expects the listeners to follow or obey.
Ministering to another involves caring for an individual through a singular problem or difficult time and often deals with spiritual issues. During this process, it can become appropriate to give someone authority so they are able to help. The one given authority now has a responsibility in helping the person in need. This comes when the person in need is unable to do something for themselves. One example of this is when giving another person authority to pray over them for healing or for casting out a demonic influence. Because of the spiritual bonds involved, the influence one person can have over another through such authority can be deep and immense, especially when dealing with issues of prayer.
Discipleship, by definition, is a long term relationship that involves teaching another to follow the ways of the Almighty. This involves prolonged contact between the teacher and the student and should focus on the individual needs of that student. Therefore, a large group for discipleship becomes inappropriate because the individualized focus becomes lost. Discipleship focuses on education and, therefore, tends to be more physical than spiritual. However, there is still authority involved because of the submission of the student to the teacher.