Preaching the gospel to the lost is a sacred calling, but Bishop Dag Heward-Mills has always emphasized that the work does not end when a soul lifts their hand or says a prayer. Evangelism is just the beginning. The true work begins when that new believer is followed up, discipled, and nurtured into a faithful Christian.
He teaches that many churches are filled with converts but lacking in disciples. And the reason is simple: follow-up has been neglected. It is not enough to count decisions for Christ. We must count the cost to help them grow, remain, and become fruitful. Bishop Dag sees every new soul as a spiritual baby who needs care, love, and attention—not just once, but consistently.
The success of his ministry in retaining souls is tied to this unshakable commitment to follow-up. In every crusade, church plant, and outreach, systems are built to track, visit, and teach new believers until they become rooted in Christ and grounded in the Word.
Shepherding With Intention
One of the key marks of Bishop Dag’s leadership is his intentionality in pastoral care. He does not leave the growth of a new believer to chance. He trains pastors and leaders to be hands-on, practical, and present in the lives of the sheep.
He often teaches that a good shepherd knows the state of his flock. That means knowing who came to church, who missed, who got saved, and who needs help. This approach builds trust and shows care. New believers feel loved when someone remembers their name, calls to check on them, and walks with them through their early stages of faith.
His churches are structured around this principle. Lay shepherds and leaders are trained to reach out, visit, and teach new converts personally. The church is not a crowd—it is a family. And in families, people don’t fall through the cracks. They are seen, known, and nurtured.
Teaching the Whole Church to Care
Bishop Dag’s commitment to follow-up is not limited to the pastoral team. He teaches the whole church to carry the burden of caring for souls. Every member is trained to be a shepherd in their own capacity. Everyone has a role to play in strengthening the weak and supporting the new.
He encourages church members to make friends with new people, invite them to fellowship, call them during the week, and help them feel like they belong. He teaches that retention is not the job of a few—it is the responsibility of all.
This culture of follow-up has made his churches strong, loving, and grounded. People stay because they are not just numbers—they are souls that are valued, followed up on, and discipled intentionally.
Lasting Fruit Through Love and Patience
Bishop Dag Heward-Mills believes that the only fruit that matters is the fruit that remains. And fruit that remains is the result of patient, loving, consistent follow-up. It is not glamorous work. It is not always appreciated. But it is necessary. And it pleases the heart of God.
His ministry continues to grow, not just because of powerful preaching, but because of intentional shepherding. He has shown the Church that the true measure of success is not how many came to the altar—but how many stayed and grew.
Through his teaching and example, Bishop Dag reminds every believer and every pastor: don’t leave the sheep alone. Go after them. Love them. Follow them up. And watch them become everything God has called them to be.