DId you happen to read the article (on the front page I might add) in the Greenville News a couple of days ago about pastors blogging? Out of curiosity I read the article thinking it was probably something stupid.  In all fairness it was a good article.  One line really stood out to me, "In the name of Christ quit blogging."  This came from the state President (Frank Page) of the SBC (Southern Baptist Convention).  I agreed and disagreed with him.

Agreed
His point was that Christians were fighting over petty things where the unchurched could read and form opinions about Christianity.  I agree with him here.  Why can't we as Christians listen to what God's Word says?

Titus 3:9-11 
But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless. [10] Warn a divisive person once, and then warn him a second time. After that, have nothing to do with him. [11] You may be sure that such a man is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned.

I love the way Paul puts it, "avoid foolish controversies."  What great advice.  I'd rather share what Christ is doing in my life and the life of our church rather than fight over some petty theological subject.  The majority of time only a few people can understand some of these conversations, but they can sense the hatred and lack of love occurring.

Disagree
I read several pastors blogs on a regular basis.  They are full of wisdom and great ideas for new churches like 5 Point.  Perry Noble, Gary Lamb, Mark Batterson, Joe Sangle and others have helped me greatly at times.  I can guarantee you I'll continue reading their blogs.  So, I disagree that pastors should never blog. 


Purpose of my blog
A lot of other pastors are writing to the world.  That's not me.  I don't have the wisdom or intelligence of some of theses guys.  But what I do have is a heart for 5 Point and the people of 5 Point.  The purpose of deanhermanonline.com is to allow our people to know my heart and my thoughts.  We're growing so fast that its not possible for me to go out to eat or just hang out with everyone.  Here is a great opportunity for people to get to know their pastor.  I'm very open and transparent about myself and my thoughts.  I want to keep everyone up to date about Dean and 5 Point.  So, hope you enjoy!

To those of you that read yesterdays blog and responded with comments and or prayer - THANK YOU.  The staff fussed at me yesterday about being so tired and stressed.  This morning I stayed home and studied.  Went and swam (preparing for tri) and lifted weights.  Had lunch with Ryan Calhoun and returned home to read.  In fact I didn't come in until 3:00 and I feel much better.  I'm sure the staff and my family will appreciate it more than myself.  Please continue to pray for me because the kick off of I Screwed Up is right around the corner.  This is a great time for our church and I'm honored to be considered your pastor.