One of the greatest responsibilities of a pastor is to be a shepherd who cares for and nurtures the people of God. Many churches struggle because their leaders do not fully understand the role of a shepherd. Dag Heward-Mills has been a leading voice on the art of shepherding, teaching pastors how to care for their congregations with love, wisdom, and diligence.
His books, especially “The Art of Shepherding,” provide practical insights on how pastors can develop a shepherd’s heart, lead with compassion, and build strong, thriving churches. His teachings have helped thousands of pastors worldwide transform their ministries by embracing the true calling of a shepherd.
The Biblical Model of a Shepherd
In John 10:11, Jesus declares, “I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.” This scripture reveals that a shepherd must love, protect, and sacrifice for the flock.
Dag Heward-Mills teaches that a shepherd’s role is not just to preach on Sundays—it is to:
- Care for the spiritual, emotional, and physical needs of the congregation.
- Lead the flock with wisdom and patience, ensuring they grow in their faith.
- Protect the sheep from false doctrines and spiritual attacks.
His emphasis on pastoral care, discipleship, and leadership development has helped many pastors build healthy, spiritually strong churches.
Developing a Shepherd’s Heart
A true shepherd does not serve for personal gain or prestige—they serve because of a deep love for God’s people. Dag Heward-Mills teaches that a shepherd must be patient, prayerful, and willing to sacrifice for their flock.
To develop a shepherd’s heart, he encourages pastors to:
- Spend time in prayer for their congregation.
- Build strong relationships with church members.
- Be personally involved in the spiritual growth of their members.
Pastors who follow these principles see deeper connections with their members and stronger church communities.
Practical Skills for Effective Shepherding
Beyond having the right heart, a shepherd must also develop skills to lead effectively. Dag Heward-Mills teaches pastors how to:
- Preach messages that nourish and strengthen believers.
- Train and mentor church leaders to assist in shepherding duties.
- Organize church structures that allow for personal pastoral care.
His teachings have equipped many pastors with the tools and strategies needed to build lasting ministries.
Conclusion
Dag Heward-Mills has helped thousands of pastors embrace their calling as shepherds, transforming churches through strong leadership, deep pastoral care, and commitment to discipleship. His teachings continue to shape the next generation of church leaders, ensuring that churches remain spiritually strong and well-led.
His message is clear: A good shepherd does not just preach—he loves, cares, and sacrifices for the people God has entrusted to him.