Gospel ministry is not an academic teaching exercise; it is highly relational.  The Apostle Paul revealed his genuine affection for those who learnt from him and worked with him, identifying with him in the ministry.  Although he did not know the believers who met in Priscilla and Aquila's home, he was longing to see how they had grown in Christ (Romans 16:3-5).  

Epenetus was the first person to be converted in, what is now, Western Turkey; and Paul saw him as the 'firstfruits' of the gospel there.  Mary was a hard worker, not afraid to put herself out to meet the needs of the church.  Andronicus and Junias, a Jewish couple who may have also been relatives of Paul may have come to visit Him but ended up sharing  his prison cell; he had seen their courage in standing up for Christ.  Interestingly, they had become believers in Jesus before Paul was converted.

These people were precious to Paul and through them the gospel would spread further.  Paul strongly affirmed those who did not stop because of difficulties, give up because of hardship or become embittered through suffering (Romans 8:31-39).  They had the spiritual DNA of genuine servants of God.  Such people shared Paul's spiritual ambitions.  They loved the Lord Jesus so much that they were willing to suffer for His sake (Philippians 1:29).

There is a special bond of friendship between comrades in arms, and friends who studied together.  They have shared suffering, worked hard together, helped one another through difficulties and so they have confidence in one another.  The same is true for people who work together for the sake of Christ and those who have come to faith through a particular teacher or evangelist.  Such relationships are very precious.  They provide ongoing encouragement to keep going and inspiration to seize new opportunities to proclaim the lordship of Christ.  These people love each other, pray for each other, share with each other, weep and rejoice with each other.  Are you cherishing your Christian friends, those who discipled you or who you have brought up in the faith?  If not, take time to thank God for them, pray for them, phone them or write an email and encourage them to keep pressing on with Jesus.