In many churches, new converts often struggle to find where they fit. They receive Christ but are left unsure of how to grow or serve. Dag Heward-Mills has addressed this issue head-on by creating a clear growth path for every believer. His ministry is designed to take a person from the moment of salvation all the way to leadership—through intentional teaching, mentorship, and opportunities to serve.
This path is not limited to a select few. It is open to everyone, no matter their age, background, or education. In his churches, everyone is given the tools to grow spiritually and rise in responsibility. The process is structured, biblical, and proven.
Follow-Up and Foundation
The journey begins with follow-up. When someone gives their life to Christ in one of Dag Heward-Mills’ churches or crusades, they are quickly connected to a shepherd who helps them understand the basics of their faith. Foundational truths like salvation, baptism, prayer, and Bible reading are taught early on.
New converts are encouraged to attend church consistently, join a smaller fellowship group, and begin studying materials designed to establish them in the Word. This early investment ensures that the seed of salvation does not fall by the wayside but takes root and begins to grow.
Discipleship That Challenges and Equips
After the foundational stage, new believers are brought into a discipleship process. This is where real growth happens. They learn how to pray deeply, how to walk in holiness, how to evangelize, and how to be faithful in their spiritual lives. These teachings are not abstract—they are practical and come from the life experiences of Dag Heward-Mills himself.
Discipleship in his ministry is about building character as well as competence. It teaches people to love God, serve others, and stay committed even when things are difficult. It is in this season that many believers begin to discover their spiritual gifts and calling.
Developing the Heart of a Servant
One of the key values instilled in new disciples is servanthood. Dag Heward-Mills teaches that leadership begins with serving. Before anyone can lead, they must learn to follow. Before they can command, they must learn to obey. This mindset creates humble, teachable leaders who are not seeking position but are ready to serve wherever they are needed.
In his churches, many leaders began by sweeping floors, arranging chairs, or teaching in children’s ministry. Their growth into leadership came through faithfulness in small things. This process weeds out pride and builds a strong foundation for future responsibility.
Opportunities to Lead and Multiply
Once a disciple has proven faithful, they are given opportunities to lead. This may be in the form of a small group, a church department, or even a mission field. These assignments are not random—they are intentional. Dag Heward-Mills believes that responsibility is one of the best teachers, and so he places people in roles that stretch and grow them.
As they lead, they continue to be mentored. They attend leadership camps, read books, and receive correction and encouragement. The result is a new generation of leaders who are grounded, seasoned, and fruitful. They don’t just maintain the church—they expand it.
Conclusion
The growth path from convert to leader in Dag Heward-Mills’ ministry is one of the reasons his churches continue to grow and multiply. He has created a structure that nurtures new believers, disciples them, and then releases them to serve. It is not a quick process, but it is effective and lasting.
This model reflects the way Jesus trained His disciples—starting with simple obedience and ending with great commission authority. And just like in the New Testament, the fruit of this process is visible: strong churches, faithful leaders, and transformed lives. It is a growth path worth following, and one that continues to raise leaders who carry the Gospel to the ends of the earth.
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