One of the most powerful revelations in the ministry of Dag Heward-Mills is the truth that every believer is called. Every Christian has a role in the body of Christ. Ministry is not reserved for the pulpit or the ordained. Ministry is the responsibility of every member of the Church. This truth has been the foundation of his lay ministry movement—a movement that has mobilized thousands of believers to serve, preach, counsel, and lead.
In many churches, the work is done by a few while the rest remain spectators. But Bishop Dag has built something different. His churches are filled with active, trained, passionate lay workers who function like ministers. They shepherd flocks. They preach in small groups. They win souls. They conduct follow-up. They carry the burden of the ministry with excellence, all while maintaining jobs, families, and daily responsibilities.
This is not a casual system. It is a divine strategy. It reflects the New Testament Church, where every believer was active, engaged, and fruitful. Bishop Dag has taught that the work of the ministry belongs to the Church—not just the pastor. And through that teaching, he has released a wave of service that has built strong churches all over the world.
Equipping the Church for Real Growth
The strength of the lay ministry movement is in its intentionality. Bishop Dag does not just encourage people to serve—he equips them. He trains them. He prepares them through teachings, books, camps, and hands-on experience. Books like The Lay Ministry and Ministerial Ethics have become guides for those who feel called but are unsure how to begin. These books are simple, clear, and practical, helping ordinary believers step into their extraordinary calling.
He teaches that lay workers are not “lesser” ministers. They are vital. They are shepherds in their own right. And when trained properly, they can lead ministries that impact hundreds. This teaching has multiplied the work of the ministry exponentially. One pastor can only do so much. But a pastor who raises 50 lay ministers extends his reach fiftyfold.
The lay ministry has also created a deep sense of ownership in the church. Members no longer just attend—they build. They sacrifice. They pray. They counsel. And because of that, the church becomes stronger, deeper, and more effective.
Dag Heward-Mills has modeled this himself. Before full-time ministry, he was a lay pastor. He preached while working as a medical doctor. He studied the Word while managing life responsibilities. That personal example has inspired thousands to believe they too can be used by God, no matter their background or profession.
The global impact of his lay ministry model is seen in the fruit—churches planted, souls saved, leaders raised. And all of it powered by ordinary people who believed they could serve an extraordinary God.