Loyalty and faithfulness are two of the most crucial qualities in church leadership. Many ministries face division, disunity, and leadership struggles because of disloyalty among pastors, church workers, and members. Dag Heward-Mills has been one of the strongest voices on the importance of loyalty and faithfulness in ministry, teaching that a stable church can only be built on the foundation of committed and trustworthy leaders.
His book “Loyalty and Disloyalty” has become one of the most widely used leadership manuals in churches worldwide. His teachings emphasize that without loyalty, a church will constantly face betrayal, internal conflicts, and even collapse.
The Biblical Foundation of Loyalty in Leadership
Loyalty is not just a human principle—it is a biblical command. In 1 Corinthians 4:2, the Bible states:
“Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.”
This verse highlights that God expects leaders to be faithful and trustworthy in their service. Dag Heward-Mills teaches that loyalty is a requirement for leadership, not an option. Without it, churches will suffer from:
- Unstable leadership teams.
- Division caused by betrayal and rebellion.
- Constant loss of members and workers.
His teachings help leaders understand that faithfulness to God, to the vision of the ministry, and to their leaders is essential for long-term success.
The Dangers of Disloyalty in the Church
Many churches struggle because they fail to identify and address disloyalty early. Dag Heward-Mills teaches that disloyalty often begins as small signs of rebellion, murmuring, and lack of commitment before it grows into something bigger.
He identifies key stages of disloyalty, including:
- Offense and bitterness—People who feel offended often develop resentment towards leadership.
- Independence and pride—Some leaders and church workers refuse to submit to authority and start operating outside the vision of the ministry.
- Open rebellion and division—Disloyal leaders may eventually break away, causing splits in the church.
By understanding these stages, church leaders can prevent problems before they become serious and ensure that their ministries remain stable.
How Loyalty Strengthens the Church
A loyal and faithful leadership team leads to a stronger, more united church. Churches that apply Dag Heward-Mills’ loyalty principles experience:
- Long-term stability, with leaders who remain committed for years.
- Unity and teamwork among pastors and church workers.
- Growth and expansion because there is less internal conflict and more focus on the mission.
He teaches that loyalty leads to lasting success in ministry. A church filled with loyal leaders and members will thrive, expand, and make a greater impact on the world.
Conclusion
Dag Heward-Mills’ teachings on loyalty and faithfulness have helped countless churches avoid unnecessary struggles and remain strong. His leadership model ensures that churches remain united, leaders stay committed, and the work of God continues without division. His message is clear: A church that is built on loyalty will stand the test of time, grow stronger, and fulfill the Great Commission with excellence.