In today’s world, pastors face unique challenges. Leading a church requires more than just a good sermon or a friendly demeanor; it demands wisdom, deep knowledge of Scripture, leadership skills, and, above all, the ability to shepherd a congregation through the ups and downs of life. One of the most significant ways pastors can develop these qualities is by learning from others, especially those who have walked the path before them.

The Bible itself underscores the importance of learning from one another. Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” This verse highlights the power of mutual growth and mentorship within the body of Christ. It’s not enough for pastors to rely solely on their own understanding or experiences. To thrive in ministry, they need to draw from the wisdom of seasoned leaders who have cultivated deep knowledge and experience in the field of shepherding.

One of the most prominent leaders in modern Christian ministry who has dedicated his life to equipping pastors around the world is Bishop Dag Heward-Mills. Through his teachings, books, conferences, and now his podcast, Bishop Heward-Mills has revolutionized how pastors are trained and equipped for ministry. His story is one of humble beginnings, unrelenting dedication, and a desire to serve God’s people by raising up faithful leaders.

In this article, we will take a closer look at Bishop Dag Heward-Mills’ ministry, how it grew from a small group to an international movement, and how his teachings—found in his podcasts, conferences, and books—help pastors worldwide. Additionally, we will explore other influential Christian podcasts for pastors that continue to inspire and equip church leaders today.

The Growth of Bishop Dag Heward-Mills’ Ministry

Bishop Dag Heward-Mills is known worldwide for his teaching ministry and his remarkable success in church planting. What many don’t know, however, is that his ministry began with very humble origins. In the early 1990s, he started a small Bible study in the canteen of a medical school in Accra, Ghana. With a heart to share the gospel and reach souls, Bishop Heward-Mills would soon see his small group grow into what is now a massive international movement. 

What started as a simple Bible study among medical students blossomed into the Lighthouse Chapel International, one of the largest and most influential churches in Ghana, with branches spanning across the globe. As of now, the ministry boasts a vast network of pastors and churches in various countries, making it one of the most significant Christian movements in Africa and beyond.

The key to Bishop Heward-Mills’ success in growing his ministry lies in his commitment to God’s calling, his passion for training leaders, and his unwavering focus on outreach and evangelism. His strategic approach to church planting, discipleship, and leadership development has transformed countless lives and helped many pastors establish thriving ministries.

From Small Beginnings to Global Influence

The growth of Lighthouse Chapel International from a humble Bible study to an international church network is a testament to Bishop Heward-Mills’ vision and leadership. At the core of his approach was his emphasis on developing strong, godly leaders who would carry the vision of the church and continue to multiply God’s kingdom in their communities.

One of the major catalysts for this exponential growth was Bishop Heward-Mills’ commitment to training pastors. His teachings are deeply rooted in practical pastoral care, and he has spent decades developing methods and systems for building strong, sustainable ministries. One of his core teachings is that pastors are not just “preachers,” but “shepherds” called to guide God’s flock through wisdom, prayer, and action.

Through conferences like Iron Sharpens Iron, Give Thyself Wholly, and various seminars, Bishop Heward-Mills has provided pastors with the resources and insights they need to grow their own ministries and be effective shepherds. These events often feature Bishop Heward-Mills himself, as well as other experienced leaders, sharing practical wisdom on topics ranging from leadership and church planting to dealing with difficult congregational dynamics.

As the ministry grew, it wasn’t long before Bishop Heward-Mills began expanding his reach further through the written word. His books have had a tremendous impact on Christian leadership, offering practical advice on everything from building a church to staying faithful in the ministry. His writings, such as “The Art of Shepherding”, “Loyalty and Disloyalty”, and “How to Win Souls”, have been read by pastors all over the world.

But perhaps one of the most groundbreaking aspects of Bishop Heward-Mills’ ministry in recent years has been the introduction of his podcast. By leveraging modern technology, Bishop Heward-Mills has been able to share his messages on an even wider scale, making his teaching accessible to pastors everywhere. Through the podcast, listeners can hear messages from the Iron Sharpens Iron and Give Thyself Wholly conferences, as well as fresh content designed to equip pastors with the knowledge they need to lead effectively.

How Bishop Dag Heward-Mills Helps Pastors Grow

Bishop Dag Heward-Mills has become a father figure to pastors worldwide, offering wisdom on everything from leadership and loyalty to the power of the anointing and the call to shepherd God’s people. Below are just a few of the key teachings he shares through his books, conferences, and podcasts:

 

1. Shepherding: The Heart of Ministry

One of Bishop Heward-Mills’ most profound teachings is on the importance of shepherding. Drawing from the Bible’s portrayal of pastors as shepherds, Bishop Heward-Mills emphasizes that a pastor’s role is not just to preach to the congregation but to care for them, protect them, and guide them spiritually. In his book The Art of Shepherding, he lays out the qualities that every effective pastor must develop, such as patience, compassion, and a willingness to serve.

Pastors are often called to deal with difficult situations within their churches—broken marriages, financial struggles, personal crises—and Bishop Heward-Mills teaches that the pastor’s ability to shepherd his flock through these challenges is what defines his effectiveness.

2. Anointing: The Power to Lead

Another essential topic that Bishop Heward-Mills addresses is the anointing of the Holy Spirit. He teaches that pastors must be anointed to lead, as human wisdom and effort are insufficient for the work of ministry. It is only through the power of the Holy Spirit that pastors can accomplish the mission of God.

In his teachings, Bishop Heward-Mills often talks about the need for pastors to stay connected to God, to be constantly filled with the Holy Spirit, and to rely on divine strength in their ministry. The anointing is not just for personal empowerment, but for equipping others and accomplishing the work of evangelism and discipleship.

3. Loyalty and Disloyalty

One of the more challenging topics that Bishop Heward-Mills addresses is loyalty and disloyalty in the ministry. He teaches that loyalty is a critical component of church growth and success. Disloyalty, on the other hand, can derail a ministry and cause division. Bishop Heward-Mills has written extensively about how to recognize, address, and avoid disloyalty among church leaders and members. His teaching on loyalty is rooted in biblical principles, drawing from examples in both the Old and New Testaments.

4. Leadership and Growth

Leadership is at the heart of Bishop Heward-Mills’ ministry. He emphasizes that leadership is not just about having authority or status; it’s about serving others, equipping them, and empowering them to fulfill their calling. Bishop Heward-Mills has a proven track record of training pastors and leaders, equipping them with the tools they need to build strong, thriving churches.

Through his Iron Sharpens Iron conferences and now his podcasts, Bishop Heward-Mills continues to teach pastors about the qualities of great leadership, including humility, vision, and persistence.

Other Christian Podcasts for Pastors

While Bishop Dag Heward-Mills offers an incredible resource for pastors through his ministry, there are other excellent podcasts that provide valuable teachings and insights for those called to lead in the church. Here are four other top Christian podcasts for pastors:

1. The Carey Nieuwhof Leadership Podcast

Carey Nieuwhof is a Canadian pastor and leadership expert who focuses on helping pastors grow in leadership and church health. His podcast features interviews with some of the world’s top leaders, offering insights into leadership, church growth, and personal development. It’s an invaluable resource for pastors looking to navigate the challenges of ministry in the modern world.

2. The Church Leaders Podcast

The Church Leaders Podcast is a great resource for pastors who are looking for practical advice on church leadership. It features interviews with experienced church leaders, offering wisdom on church planting, discipleship, leadership development, and much more.

3. The Unstuck Church Podcast

The Unstuck Church Podcast focuses on helping churches move from a place of stagnation to growth and health. The hosts, Tony Morgan and Amy Anderson, provide practical advice and strategies for pastors looking to lead their churches to greater effectiveness and impact.

4. The Pastor’s Toolbox Podcast

The Pastor’s Toolbox Podcast is aimed at equipping pastors with the tools and resources they need to effectively lead their congregations. It covers a wide range of topics, from sermon preparation and leadership development to dealing with difficult situations in the church.

Conclusion

Pastors are essential leaders in the body of Christ, and their role requires continuous learning, growth, and development. Through the teachings of Bishop Dag Heward-Mills, as well as the various other podcasts available today, pastors are equipped with valuable resources to help them navigate the challenges of ministry. Whether through the mentorship of seasoned leaders, insightful teachings on shepherding, or practical advice on leadership, these podcasts serve as vital tools for pastors around the world who are committed to fulfilling their calling and making a lasting impact in their communities.