Dean Herman

Feb 8, Who we are part 2

Dean Herman — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 19:25:26 GMT

I knew from the very beginning of 5 Point we would be a church geared at reaching those far from God. But what I didn't know was just how messy it was going to be. We as a church have come to find out that reaching people can be TOUGH and can get you DIRTY! But to reach people with spiritual needs many times you must meet physical needs.

While attending a conference I heard one of the speakers ask this question, "if your church was to shut down today would anyone notice beside those who attend?" That question really began to haunt me. Yes we had a good Sunday morning but what else did we offer? Since that time the staff and I have worked hard to make this community want us to be here. Here are some of the things we have done or are doing:
* Halloween and 4th of July FREE activities. We had rides, games, hot dogs, cotton candy, drinks, face painting, pop corn and much more with all of it being free. City actually got mad at us because they we're trying to sell the same stuff. We did this three or four years.
* West Gate Apartment kids ministry. Michelle and an incredible group of volunteers go into the apartment complex every Tuesday to help kids with homework and fellowship. Usually go outside and let the kids play some games after doing their homework.
* Food Pantry - this has taken off. Wee feed hundreds of people every month. Amanda and her crew are simply amazing. We have seen numerous people come to know Christ through the food pantry.
* MONEY TALKS and we give a lot to other ministries. One of my favorites in Home With A Heart. So much life Change takes place there. The home is for men addicted to drugs and alcohol. They have a 9 week program and it is free. Another is Mary's House. A home for abused women. We support SHARE which helps people with rent, electric bills etc. And we have our own benevolence in which we help some people.
* Mac Ride - We took part in putting shoes on the feet of hundreds of kids in our local Elementary School.
* We put sweat shirts on every student in the Elementary School three years ago. Just a way to let kids know we love them. I continue to see them in town today.
* Every year we take part in several programs to help kids have some presents. Along with local charities we also send presents to Africa.
* Speaking of Africa, we have 5 Point Tabora in which we have spent THOUSANDS in order to reach more people for Christ half way around the globe. As I write this plans are in the work for two more trips this year! There is a piece of my heart in Tabora, Africa that will never come home.

I could continue but I think you get the picture, we want to help serve our community. In fact, tomorrow the staff is meeting all day and one of the topics is how to do more for our community.

If you are not a regular attender of 5 Point you might be wondering why we put so much emphasis on serving our community. Easy, Christ commanded us to. He said it this way,

Matthew 20:26-28
26 Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever wants to be first must be your slave-- 28 just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."

Here at 5 Point we truly believe in the Great Commandment.

Matthew 22:36-40
³⁶"Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" ³⁷Jesus replied: "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' ³⁸This is the first and greatest commandment.
³⁹And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' ⁴⁰All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."

So we are a church that wants to serve others because Christ set that example for us. Who is 5 Point, just a bunch of screwed up people who have been changed by the grace and mercy of Christ.

Some other thoughts:
* HUGE announcement Sunday morning.
* Sunday message is done and I already have a knot in my stomach. Gonna be a tough one.
* All day staff meeting tomorrow (I'm only going to morning session) to talk about our future.
* I have never been so excited about being the Pastor of 5 Point. Love what god has called me to do and who I'm doing it with.

Feb 7, Who we are part 1

Dean Herman — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 16:20:56 GMT

Every church is not the same. Every church does not believe the same things. Every church has different leaders. In fact, every church doesn't look at the Bible or Christ the same. So for the next three days I'm going to share who and what 5 Point is. The vision God has laid on my heart and how we're going to accomplish that vision.

Our vision is to Reach & teach
Reach people with the love of Jesus and teach them how to love like Jesus.
How are we going to reach and teach this community?

First (and will be our topic for the day) through our Sunday morning worship services. I know this may sound a little cliche but we are different than most churches. In fact we've advertised the statement, "Experience the difference." How are we different than most churches? Allow me to explain:

1. We are seeking to reach the hearts of men.
Everything we do is geared at making men not feel out of place. I grew up in church and most we're run by women, decorated by women, had women music and I felt like I was in the panty section of Belk. I hated it. At 5 Point we strive to make men feel comfortable. We want men to want to be here. I am a man's type Pastor. I talk about sports, sex, hunting etc...... on purpose. I want to relate to men, just like Jesus. Christ poured his life into men and I'm doing the same. I know what some are thinking right now, what about the women? From our experience, when the husband wants to come to church the wife is willing to come also.

2. We do not allow children into our worship services (children meaning birth through 5th grade)
In my opinion, not allowing children into our worship services was one of the best decisions we ever made. Yes we still take flack over this and yes we still lose people over this but it ain't changing. Why would we do such a thing?
* Because we love kids entirely too much to make them sit through one of services when they could be in the Kid Zone. Seriously, has your kids ever woke you up early on a Sunday morning begging you to take them to preaching? NO! But they do look forward to getting into the Kid Zone where we're serious about teaching our kids about Jesus in an environment they can learn in. I ask our volunteers to do two things every Sunday:
a. Teach our kids about Jesus
b. Make sure they have fun while your teaching them about Jesus
* Children probably aren't going to get much out of the things I say week in and week out. But they are learning a lot in the Zone.
* We are spending hundreds of thousands of dollars in our new building on our kids. Why, because we love them so much. We are creating an environment every child will enjoy.
* And just being honest, only people who ever get upset about not being able to take kids into auditorium are church people. Not kidding, we've had a bunch try and lie about their kids age in front of the kids. SERIOUSLY!

3. We try to have a distraction free service and we do this by:
* having people sit in the front and asking them to sit in the center allowing others to sit easily.
* if you leave the service your asked to watch remainder of service in lobby on TV.
* anyone coming in late is asked to sit in balcony.
Why do we do this? You ever been in the movies and had someone get up and leave? What do we do? We watch them walk out. And when they come back in what do we do but watch them sit back down. It is human nature. We want to take any distractions away because peoples eternity is on the line.
* staff and I work hard every week to provide a service that is Christ honoring, Biblically based and will allow people to apply God's Word into their daily lives.

4. Everyone who attends will have their hand shook and spoken to several times
We love on people! No matter what they look like, what they wear, what they drive or what color they are, we love people. In fact we've been told by a few people they didn't like just how friendly we we're. My opinion, I'd rather love them off than run them off. So we will continue making sure EVERYONE is loved on from the time they get out of their car until they actually sit down. And when they get to the building there will be some coffee and donuts waiting on them.

5. Lastly but most importantly, the Bible is taught in a very simple and clear manner
I take my responsibility of teaching God's Word very seriously. I spend a great deal of time in prayer and preparation for each and every Sunday. I don't want people just coming to 5 Point. I want them coming and leaving different. I want LIFE CHANGE! I want to see God do God sized things and because of this I teach God's Word in a very bold fashion. The staff say I am our best asset but also our worst enemy. In other words, people come because I am so bold but many leave because they don't like my in your face style of teaching. All I know is this, hundreds of people are coming to know Christ each and every year and that jacks me up.

5 Point is not here to please anyone other than Christ Himself. Are we perfect? NO! We're a bunch of screwed up people changed through the cross of Jesus Christ. Our heart's desire is to worship the King of Kings and do it in a manner that changes lives for the glory of Jesus Christ.

Feb 6, Thoughts on Sunday

Dean Herman — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 18:11:10 GMT

Another great day for 5 Point. Not sure why but momentum is rocking. Some of my thoughts on the day:
* Got up and looked outside and saw just how wet, foggy and cold it was.
* As I pulled into Robinson's parking lot (because we still do not have one) saw volunteers busy as bees setting stuff up outside. So appreciate all our volunteers.
* Worship was awesome for me. Loved the songs and could feel the Holy Spirit moving among us. Love the awesome job Tim and the band does.
* Was really nervous about message. Didn't come out of my office until time I heard Tim and the band. Continued to read over notes and pray.
* Discussed divorce and the shocking statements Christ said about it.
* Started service by asking how many people had been negatively affected by divorce. 90% of our people raised their hands including myself. My parents were divorced while I was at Clemson.
* God did not intend for His Church to be just like the world, so what happened?
* As usual, man veered from God's plan of marriage and began divorcing. But God did not approve!
* The bible is very clear about divorce, God hates it.
* The mistake the church has made is believing that God hates the divorcee also and that is far from the truth.
* Here is the shocking statement of Jesus Christ we looked at yesterday:

Matthew 5:31-32
³¹"It has been said, 'Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.' ³²But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, causes her to become an adulteress, and anyone who marries the divorced woman commits adultery.

* We then moved over to Matthew 19"

Matthew 19:4-6
⁴"Haven't you read," he replied, "that at the beginning the Creator 'made them male and female,' ⁵and said, 'For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh'? ⁶So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate."

* Man may think a piece of paper separates them from their spouse but God doesn't look at it that way.
* You can not un-one what God has oned.
* After sharing the truth of divorce tried to help those who have experienced divorce.
* Yes, divorce is sin but just like any other sin it can be forgiven through the blood of Jesus.
* I've already had several discussions and just received a phone call from people who have suffered from divorce.
* My heart hurts for people who have so much junk to deal with because of divorce.
* Discussed one of the major problems today is we marry who we want and not who God had intended.
* And yes, I said I'm sick and tired of churches looking at people who have been divorced as damaged goods. They are sinners just like all of us. Divorce is not the UNPARDONABLE sin.
* To any and all divorced people, you are more than welcome at 5 Point. We love you not because of your past but because of who's you are.
* We had an out of state pastor friend of mine who has just resigned from his church. Bad situation. Was great having them in worship today.
* Spoke to some first time guest after second service. I always enjoy that.
* This Sunday is going to be AWESOME. Talking about lust. Not that any men have a problem in that area.

Some other thoughts:
* I was exhausted yesterday. Went home after lunch and slept hard, played some basketball with Jacob and then settled in for an afternoon of golf and the Super Bowl.
* Many may not know this but we're personal friends with PGA golfer Kyle Stanley. Really enjoyed watching him get his first PGA win yesterday.
* Great Super Bowl, just hate football is actually over until September.
* Heading to staff meeting with a great group of people.
* This week I will be blogging about 5 Point. Who and what we are.

Feb 2, Pray with me

Dean Herman — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 21:56:53 GMT

Numerous times throughout the week I walk/pray for our new building. God knows what we need and how we can truly impact this city once we're worshiping there. To actually have a parking lot, foyers and most importantly kid space will be amazing to say the least. Please pray with me that God provides in a great way!

I am a very visual person. So for those of you who need a visual, here you go:

This picture was taken from one corner of the property. there is another building to the left and a lot more parking on other side.

This is a picture of the stage in main auditorium. If you've ever been to 5 Point you
understand just how much more space this will give us. We will go from having 350 seats to 700.

Please pray with me for the following:
* Finances to finish building
* LIFE CHANGE from the opening Sunday until the day Christ returns
* Thousands of salvations
* God's anointing on the staff and myself
* Volunteers. It will take twice as many as we now have.

I am so excited about our future. But we are still in the Colony for now so beg God to show up and show out this Sunday. See you then.

Feb 1, Right Attitude

Dean Herman — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 20:38:16 GMT

I am a HUGE Rick Warren fan. He has done so much to help the Kingdom of God grow. I could literally sit and listen to him for hours. Wisdom pours out of him. His devotion today was on having the right attitude when you go into the presence of God during your quiet time. I did not write the following. Every word was from Pastor Rick but it's so good I had to share it.

You can have a quiet time anywhere, but it all starts with a great attitude. God wants to know that your heart is in the right place. The Bible says in 1 Samuel 16:7 The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.

What is the right attitude to have during your quiet time?

1. Come with expectancy.
Be eager to come before God’s presence. You are meeting with God the creator of the universe! You should expect to have a good time of fellowship with him and receive a blessing.

2. Come with reverence.
You’re going to meet God, so don’t rush into his presence. Prepare your heart by being still before him. If you were going to meet with the president of the United States or the queen of England, you’d get there early. You'd look your best. How much more reverence should we have when we come into the presence of the creator of the universe?

3. Come with alertness.
Get yourself wide-awake before you meet with God. Again, you’re meeting the creator of the universe. Don’t have your quiet time in bed. You’ll probably fall asleep. In fact, the best time to prepare for your quiet time is the night before. Go to bed 15 minutes earlier if you need to. Be in good shape when you meet with God. He deserves your full attention.

4. Come with the willingness to obey.
Don’t start your quiet time with the idea that you’ll hear from God and then decide whether or not to obey. Instead, tell the Lord you’ve already decided you’re going to say yes.

Have a good attitude before you start your quiet time, and you can expect a good result from your quiet time. Come before the Lord with the wrong attitude and it’ll be just the opposite.

Some other thoughts:
* I am 100% convinced we will be in our new building before our existing parking lot will be finished.
* Don't forget tonight is all volunteers meeting.
* And don't forget we need some help Saturday morning at 9:00 am to prepare back building of our new building for the food pantry.
* Sunday morning is done. Promise you it's gonna be tense up in here Sunday. Can't wait.
* Yer we're out of space. Yes we have no parking. But, eternity is real and hell has a hold on a lot of your friends. Bring them. Don't wait until new building. Invite for this Sunday.

January 31, Kid Zone Rocks

Dean Herman — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 17:34:17 GMT

A good friend of mine took this picture Sunday and sent it to me. Its a picture of the Kid Zone before church had even started. Notice several things with me:
* Just how cool the stage design is. They are doing a series called "Clues"
* The actors come out from behind the two walls on both sides of stage.
* I didn't have anything like this growing up in church. I had the older woman (God Bless her) telling me to be still and listen to her read some stupid boring story. SERIOUSLY!
* Notice their is hardly any room anywhere for more kids or adults.
* Please realize this group doesn't consist of the babies, toddler and walkers.
* And this picture doesn't have the kids on both sides of the room or the ones who came in after picture.

As the Pastor of 5 Point Church I want to say a special thank you to all of you that make the Kid Zone as awesome as it is. I ask Michelle that the Zone and its volunteers do two things:
1. Kids learn about Jesus
2. Kids have incredible time while learning
BOTH HAPPEN EVERY WEEK!

5 Point is growing and one of the main reasons is because kids want to be here. They ask Mommy and Daddy if they are going to church. They ask if they have to leave. And when that happens parents are coming back regardless how bad the preaching is.

Thanks to all of you who serve so faithfully to help us share the gospel of Jesus Christ with our kids.

Jan 30, Thoughts on Sunday

Dean Herman — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 20:37:41 GMT

I have come to a conclusion, to attend 5 Point you must really want to go to church. Some of my thoughts on the day:
* As I came out of my office and heading down stairs Sunday morning I noticed several things I really dislike:
a. people out of breath from having to walk so far (probably good for them :))
b. long line in Kid Zone for check in
c. foyer so crowded I couldn't get through
d. it was cold in the foyer due to doors being open
e. went to bathroom and it was crowded. Told everyone it was my office and we chatted
f. walked down Kid Zone hall way, oh my gosh the kids.
g. our sound system is old and doesn't sound real good. We bought it off Marathon when they moved into their new building. Tell you just how old it is.
h. there were over 50 people standing in the foyer waiting to get into main auditorium between services
I could list some more but I think you get the picture that there are a lot of things I'd love to change at 5 Point. But in saying that there are some things I wouldn't change for nothing:
a. the atmosphere is electric. People can't wait to get in and worship. Meant what I said earlier, if you attend 5 Point you have a desire to be at church.
b. wouldn't change being crowded over having a lot of space
c. sound system may be old but Tim and the band bring it every week
d. its cold because the greeters don't have time to close the doors, too many people coming and going
e. we have a bunch of freaks at 5 Point. People who wouldn't fit in anywhere else and I wouldn't have it any other way.
f. yes the Kid Zone is CRAMPED but that is definitely better than having a lot of emptiness. Going to blog more about Kid Zone later in week.
g. LIFE CHANGE takes place every week.
h. we have first time guest every week
i. we have second time guest every week
j. we have people who come for their third time and they are now one of us every week
k. people love on you the minute you step into the parking lots, even if they are a mile form the church
l. GOD IS ALL OVER THIS PLACE!

I love being the Pastor of a church where people have a burning desire to attend. Love the fact that so many of our volunteers have bought into our vision and are pouring their lives into 5 Point.

Some thoughts on yesterday service:
* Looked at the shocking statement, "Love your enemy and pray for those who persecute you."
* You could seriously feel the tension. People do not want to pray for those they dislike.
* Major life change took place. Love it.
* Can you imagine if all of us were willing to forgive, love our enemies and even pray for those who are always after us? The church would change the world. Jesus had a pretty good idea of what He was doing!
* Shared what we must do to love our enemies:
First, we must have a heart transplant form Jesus. Not possible to love enemies with a worldly heart.
Second, we must forgive them for whatever it was that made them our enemy. Used the example of Christ on cross asking God to forgive those killing him.
Third, we must come to the point we actually hurt for them just as Christ hurt for us.
* Worship at end of service was incredible!
* Love this church!

Jan 26, Papa Joe

Dean Herman — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 20:15:52 GMT

I've debated discussing my thoughts about Joe Paterno. Due to all the things I've heard from the media, read on facebook, listened to on radio and heard from personal friends I couldn't take it anymore. Before I start please know I have zero faith in the media. We hear one side of the story and its usually the opinion of the person reporting. Who knows what the truth is anymore. So in saying that, hear are my thoughts on Joe Paterno:
* I've always been a Coach Paterno fan. He has never messed up morally. Always been an awesome hero for kids and won A LOT of football games.
* Joe never bought into the idea of running to the next coaching opportunity. He started as an assistant at Penn State and once he became head coach he never left. That is not heard of anymore.
* Regardless of how bad Penn State beat their opponent or were beaten Joe was always respectful and courteous. My opinion, Joe seemed to be everything you would want in a coach as a player and parent.
* Did Joe screw up 10 years ago by not taking the alleged allegations of one of his coaches further? We will never know because we never heard all of Joe's side. He was thrown under the bus before, tried and found guilty before he had a chance.
* I'm not taking up for Joe, I just don't know the truth of the matter. Every time I watch Sports Center the story changes.
* If I was the parent of one of the young boys would I have wanted more done? OF COURSE!
* I'm not taking sides. I'm just saying both sides haven't been shared.

Some questions I have to ask about this entire matter:
* Could Joe have done more? I''m not sure. I wish he hadn't died of a broken heart so soon after being fired so we could have found out.
* Does one mistake define the person we are? I sure hope not. I've made so many mistakes that if someone began pulling them out of my closest I would be through as a Pastor.
* Should we hang someone when we ourselves deserve to be hung? I have to turn to the words of Christ on that one.

Matthew 7:1-5
¹"Do not judge, or you too will be judged. ²For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. ³"Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? ⁴How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? ⁵You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.

I have a full time job worrying about Dean Herman much less hanging someone else out to dry. I hurt for everyone involved ion this awful scandal, especially the young victims. But NONE of us have the right to crucify someone, unless we're perfect ourselves that is.

Finish by saying I know what some of you are saying and thinking. But Dean you know Joe should have.........
Yes, things probably should have been handled differently. Yes, coaches probably should have been fired. Yes, and the list could go on. All I'm saying is before we crucify someone we should take a long look in the mirror and ask if the person we're looking at has ever royally screwed up and deserve the exact same things being said about Joe Paterno.

Some other thoughts:
* Sunday is finished and I can't wait.
* Bring a friend and remind them they have to walk a good ways.
* Need some help from all those who have bought into our vision. There are some seats open in the first service and none in second. Would you think about coming to first service? Really help open up seats for guests during second.
* I have lost 8 pounds. Good news but A LOT to go.
* Have an awesome weekend and do something radical for Jesus.

Jan 25, Do I have to?

Dean Herman — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 21:47:45 GMT

If you know anything about Dean Herman you know I love to eat. And eat a lot. In fact, there isn't much food I don't like. My favorite food, whatever is the worst for you. Only thing that has kept me from weighing 500 pounds is my love for working out.

I have shared that during the year of 2012 I am truly striving to be the prayer warrior I need to be. I've always spent a great deal in prayer but really taking it up a notch for several reasons:
* want my personal walk with Christ to grow
* truly want to be in tune with God's will for my life and life of our church
* convinced prayer is the hidden power source of the American church

So to better prepare me I read Mark Batteron's "Circle Maker" on the topic of prayer. Excellent read. One of the chapters dealt with fasting in conjunction with prayer. Lets be honest, us Americans don't like fasting. In fact it stinks. I'd rather be stuffing my face at the Golden Coral buffet bar. But Mark made a statement that grabbed my attention, "fasting has a way of fast-tracking our prayers because fasting is harder than praying." "Fasting is a form of praying hard." I didn't want to hear that. Why can't I just lay on my face and pour out my heart to God and then head to Golden Coral?

Then Mark had to bring up the point that Jesus himself said, "some miracles are not possible without fasting." And Christ said this:

Matthew 26:41 (NIV)
⁴¹"Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak."

That is exactly where myself and so many others are. I truly want to hear from God. I truly want to fast mentally it is the physical aspect that kicks my butt. The problem isn't want its willpower. But if we truly want to see the hand of God we have to spend time fasting. Fasting gives you more power to pray because it's an exercise in willpower. An empty stomach leads to a full spirit.

I've done extended fast. I've done one day fast through out the year. But I've never really fasted so I could have more power in prayer. So, I've started fasting every Wednesday. During Wednesdays I spend a lot more time in prayer. Beg God for His to be done.

Let me ask you couple of tough questions. First, are you willing to be obedient to God's Word?

Matthew 6:16 (NIV)
¹⁶"When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full.

Christ himself said "when you fast." Not if or could or should but WHEN! We''re expected to fast.

Second, have you prayed about something to the point your tired of praying about it? Then you probably need to fast also. And that is where I am. Going to begin fasting more so that I will truly be filled with the power and anointing of the Holy Spirit. Join me!

Jan 24, Heart broken for marriages

Dean Herman — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 21:07:57 GMT

For 31 years now I've had the honor of being married to Debbie. I can't say every day has been awesome because it hasn't. But we've made it through the good days and the bad. But I can say our marriage is as good as its ever been. I love Deb so much and desire to be the man she deserves and God has called me to be.

I know the joys of marriage and the hurts of marriage. I know how awesome sex can be with Deb and the lack of sex due to arguing and just being ticked with each other. I know the joy of giving away your daughter to another man but the difficulties of raising a daughter in today's world. The incredible honor of baptizing your kids but seeing Satan trying to attack them. TO have money in the bank and to be flat butt broke. We have buried three of our four parents together. We've laughed and we've cried. But God has kept us together. And that is the reason for this blog.

Many marriages are not staying together. And a lot of the ones who do are miserable. It doesn't have to be that way. Felt really impressed by God last week to begin some type of marriage enrichment within our church. So I threw it out there Sunday morning over 20 couples signed up to take part. Our first meeting will be Saturday, February 11. Danny Slowe will be smoking his life changing rib eye steaks along with baked potatoes and salad. Afterwards we'll begin digging into some deep marital issues. The cost is only $10.00 per person. This will be the first of many sessions. In fact, my plans are to do this monthly. If you are interested need you to sign up Sunday morning and pay for your meals.

Each month we will tackle some of the tough topics no one ever helped Deb and I with. Here are just a few:
* how to argue without fighting.
* sex
* kids
* finances
* being a spiritual leader
* putting God in the center of the marriage
* date night

We will also have our second annual marriage retreat April 19th - 21st. Thursday night is optional. We'll be meeting at Mountain Lodge in Hendersonville NC once again. Awesome time last year and can't wait to get back this year.

I'm tired of talking about being heart broken over marriages. Literally sick about the divorce rate in the church. Just being honest, tired of doing marriage counseling. So I am doing something about it. Pray for me because I have no idea what I'm doing. Just blindly doing what I felt prompted to do by God.

Some other thoughts:
* Pray/walked through building again today
* For those interested in going to Africa we're meeting tonight at 6:30
* They we're actually working in our parking lot today. Praise God!
* Continue to work out HARD and eating right.
* Can't wait for Sunday. this message is already burning in my soul.

Jan 23, Thoughts on Sunday

Dean Herman — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 20:42:45 GMT

Not sure I can explain all the incredible things that happened yesterday. God really moved. Some of my thoughts on the day:
* Major life change took place and that is exactly what we're all about.
* People accepted God's forgiveness and stepped into a relationship with Him. Not sure how many.
* HUNDREDS stood and admitted they we're harboring hatred toward others and needed to forgive.
* I became emotional when I saw 80% of our church stand admitting this.
* What does it say when the children of God are not willing to forgive others?
* Obviously I spoke on the topic of forgiveness. Main scripture was:
Matthew 6:14-15
¹⁴For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. ¹⁵But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.
* Christ is very clear, if we won't forgive men we can't be forgiven.
* So many people inside the church beg for God's forgiveness but aren't willing to give it.
* Simply amazed at what God did yesterday especially with the sorry attitude I had coming into parking lot.
* Told several people we would be lucky to see 500 people with the cold rainy weather and no parking lot. No one wants to carry their kids that fa.
* First service was up a little but basically the norm.
* Couldn't believe what happened second service. Our auditorium holds 388 and we had around 350. Only some seats between people. Had 20 people sitting in foyer watching service. And this was on a rainy cold day with no parking lot. Had close to 900 in attendance.
* And then God broke loose during the invitation. Hundreds stood, people broken over their cold hard hearts so full of hatred.
* As I was leading people through a prayer of repentance my heart was about to jump out of my chest.
* I admit, sometimes I let my emotions get the best of me.
* Feel overwhelmed that God showed up the way He does.
* Kid Zone was PACKED. I so appreciate those who work with our kids. They are awesome!
* In fact, appreciate everyone of our volunteers, without them we do not exist.
* Special thanks to the set up crew. They noticed our only sidewalk was under mud due to construction going on in parking lot. The shoveled and put plywood down to help get people into our building.
* Worship was awesome. Tim nailed "Man in the Mirror."
* Thank you Lord Jesus for what you are doing here at 5 Point.

Some other stuff:
* Had over 40 people want to get involved in the marriage enrichment. SO, our first one will be on February 11th. Much more info coming very soon. Just wanted you to mark the date.
* Asked everyone to pray with me about the loan for our new building. We're so close.
* Clemson has a new defensive coordinator. Maybe we can get back to some smack you in the mouth defense.
* Hate football is over except for Super Bowl.
* Went home yesterday and did nothing until I went to bed. AND IT WAS GOOD!
* Can't wait for this Sunday. Another shocking statement.
* Heading to building to walk/pray around it.

Jan 19, "Circle Maker"

Dean Herman — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 15:41:11 GMT

One of my personal goals this year is to read a minimum of one book per month. To read at least one chapter of a book (besides Bible) regardless of how busy I am. Off to a great start. Up early this morning reading and finished "Circle Maker" by Mark Batterson. This is the third book of Mark's I've read and beginning to really like him. Some of the highlights for me from "Circle "Maker"
* The theme of the book is how to pray through tough situations and basically just how to pray. Which in my opinion is something the majority of church people only do when they want or need something.
* Bold prayers honor God and God honors bold prayers.
* Love the way Mark calls some prayers the Jericho March. This is referring to the Israelites marching around the walls of Jericho and due to their obedience, God knocks the walls over for them.
* But we must all understand something, we've got to march.
* We must pray as if everything depends on God and work as if everything depends on us.
* Miracles don't happen in a planning meeting they happen in prayer meetings.
* Most of us don't get what we need or want because we never finish praying through. Praying through is all about consistency.
* And when God does provide miracles, don't just pray through, praise through.
* Once you've experienced one miracle, pray for bigger miracles. Don't keep talking about the one, continue praying through.
* If were faithful in the small things and obey those little promptings, then God can use us to do the big things.
* When we don't see the miracles, when things seem to be going against us, we must realize God is still 110% for us.
* Praying hard is praying when it's hard to pray.
* Always check your motives in praying.
* God answers our prayer to draw glory to Himself.
* Our prayers don't dissipate over time; our prayers accumulate through eternity.

Some other thoughts:
* If your not spending a lot of time in prayer, ask yourself a simple question, why not?
* Bring some friends this Sunday, gonna be a good day. Let them know they have to walk a little further.
* WE NEED A PARKING LOT!
* Food Pantry is rocking right now. Just another way we're pouring into our community.
* I'm ready to see my boys. Be home from Disney tomorrow.
* Take some time and spend it with God today.

Jan 18, Hey God, are you listening?

Dean Herman — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 22:01:19 GMT

I can never repay the four or five guys who taught me how to pray in the basement of Green Sea Baptist Church. I now spend hours in prayer every week searching for God's will for my life and our churches. In fact, one of my spiritual goals for this year is to pray more than I ever have in my life. But I've come to a conclusion through my years of prayer, God is not in the microwave business.

In our fast paced culture we've become accustomed to having whatever we want whenever we want. Need a meal, go through a drive in. Need to get a hold of someone, we have facebook, twitter, cell phones and e-mail. But God the Father doesn't work that way. We only see today, God sees forever.

I'm really learning this as I continue begging God for answers about our current condition. God knows how bad we need a parking lot. God knows we are 110% out of kid space. God knows we have a 3 foot sidewalk to put 800 plus people through between services. God knows it all.

But I also believe God is trying to teach me something through all of this. God is teaching me to pray through these difficult times. God is teaching me that I have no where to turn but to him. God is teaching me that my timing isn't the most important HIS IS!

And through all of this God is teaching me more about prayer. Prayer doesn't change circumstances as much as it changes us. It doesn't just change the external circumstances, it changes the internal even more.

I've come to the conclusion that yes, God is listening. In fact not only is he listening but enjoying all the time I'm spending on my face in prayer. He is enjoying watching one of his children realizing I'm helpless without him. I'm not sure what or when IT is going to happen, but when IT does, IT is going to be GOD SIZED!

Some other thoughts:
* I am so sore I can barely type. No kidding, I haven't hurt like this since college. 270 by Easter. No pain, no gain. I really enjoy gaining weight a lot more :)
* About to head out to building to do some more prayer walking. Stop and do the same anytime.
* This Sunday is finished. I promise you your not going to want to miss it. Bring a friend.
* Just heard from bank, could have answer early next week. Pray with me.
* Started Tim Tebow's book today. Think I'm going to like it.
* Thinking about and praying through starting a monthly marriage meeting. Would be dinner and a time of teaching how to be better husbands and wives. If your interested, let me know. Sick and tired of seeing families fall apart.
* Love what God has called me to do.

Jan 17, My way just isn't working

Dean Herman — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 19:36:10 GMT

Have you ever tried to do something for years only to have the same results? When it comes to my weight I've tried doing it my way for years. Starvation works until you start eating again. Quick fad diets work also until you go back to your old eating habits. Being totally honest, I've lost all of me (300 pounds) a couple of times only to gain it all back.

So, since my way doesn't seem to work I have finally decided to listen to the experts. I have hired a personal trainer. Worked out twice with him this far. Haven't hurt like this in years. Have spoken and met with a dietician to make my body a fat burning machine versus a fat consuming machine. I am sick and tired of being ashamed about my weight. I will weigh 270 or less on Easter morning. Write it down and hold me accountable to it.

You might be wondering where this came from (besides the obvious of looking at me). CONVICTION! Let me share the story with you. While in Africa this past Thanksgiving I made a commitment to Jesus Christ. While in a court room fighting for 5 Point Tabora I begged God for our church. During this time of begging I committed to getting down to 280 if we won the battle. Not sure what led me to do this, but I did. That was November and its now half way through January. No more, I am holding up to my end of the bargain. I made this decision last week and there is no looking back.

I didn't have to share this with any of you. Not one person knew about this commitment but myself and God the Father. Then God smacked me in the mouth this morning during my personal devotion time. I was reading Numbers 30. Read verses one and two below:

Numbers 30:1-2
¹Moses said to the heads of the tribes of Israel: "This is what the LORD commands: ²When a man makes a vow to the LORD or takes an oath to obligate himself by a pledge, he must not break his word but must do everything he said.

WOW! Talk about a slap in the face. Here I was dealing with this very thing and God spoke LOUDLY through His Word to do what I had promised him I would do.

Let me ask you a tough question, do you have any pledges or commitments to God you need to fulfill? Continue reading Numbers 30 and you will see just how serious God is when it comes to making pledges to him.

I am committing to weighing 270 or less on Easter morning. This is a commitment to myself, our church and my King. It is more than a commitment, its a promise to uphold my end of the deal that God and I made in Tabora, Africa.

Jan 16, Thoughts on Sunday

Dean Herman — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 17:27:09 GMT

As I walked by (what used to be our parking lot) and saw all the red mud, stakes in the ground and heavy duty machinery I had this sinking feeling overcome me. No one will show up today because its so cold and everyone will have to walk a pretty good distance because we have no parking lot. Oh ME of little faith. Incredible day for 5 Point. Some of my thoughts on the day:
* Started our worship time with two high energy songs.
* Followed this with baptism in both services.
* A total of 12 people were baptized in the two services combined.
* Love baptism. Love what it represents, old is dead and the new has come alive.
* Second week of "Shocking statements of Jesus Christ"
* Looked at what Christ himself had to say about going to the other side of earth to share the gospel.
* Going is a Biblical command, not a calling.
* I shared what has happened at 5 Point Tabora since day one.
* We now have an open door into a third world country to teach, preach and show the love of Jesus.
* So excited about seeing responses form people. After the service, text messages and through facebook people have been sharing how they knew they were supposed to go but needed to hear what Christ had to say about it.
* Richard will be heading back to Africa soon. I will be taking another group of people this spring or summer.
* I spoke too long. So passionate about reaching this planet for Christ I get carried away.
* And yes, I said a couple of really stupid things:
first, "Tim sang in American while Renatus sang in Swahili" Meant English just came out American.
second, Laying on a beach in New Mexico" soon as I said it knew I had said it. Meant beach in Mexico but I was hoping no one caught it. Several pointed it out already.
* For those who truly enjoy pointing out my mistakes, you must be church people :)
* Kid Zone was packed.
* I don't know how we put 850 people through this place without a parking lot, no foyer area and only a 3 foot wide sidewalk to get them in and out.
* Pray with me for the miracle we need to get into our new building.
* Imagine how many people we could reach if we actually had a parking lot, space for their children, seats and an entrance to get them all in and out!
* Thousands of salvations are coming soon :)

Some other thoughts:
* I continue to walk.pray around our new building a lot.
* feel free to do the same. Just show up and start begging God
* Already finished with next Sundays message. Going to be a tough one for all of us.
* Hoping to finish Sunday after next message this week also.
* Gotta go, meeting with personal trainer in 35 minutes. Another story for another day.

Jan 13, Circumstances shouldn't matter

Dean Herman — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 18:15:00 GMT

I gave my life to Jesus Christ on April 12, 1987 at Green Sea Baptist Church. I got saved from head to toe, including my wallet. I am still a sinner but radically in love with Jesus. I've come a long way in my walk with Jesus since 1987 and one thing that I've found to be true in my life and many others is that our own personal circumstances often dictate our relationship with Jesus. Allow me to share what I mean:
* If I had a bad day, don't read my bible that night
* Didn't get the raise I thought I was getting so I quit tithing.
* Can't get pregnant so I'm not going back to church.
* Mom died of cancer, loving God couldn't do that.

All of the above are examples I've heard from people recently. On the flip side I've also heard:
* God is truly blessing my life and I've never been so close to him.
* Since God is blessing me so richly I want to give something extra.
* I'm just praising God for all He is doing in my life right now.

Let me get straight to the point. The circumstances in our life should not dictate our relationship with Christ.
I have found this statement to be true in my own life. Something goes wrong at the church and prayer life isn't as sweet. When things are awesome walking with Jesus is great.

What I've come to find out during my walk with Christ is that when we're down, we need to turn to Jesus. when things aren't going the way we want, Jesus knows exactly what is going on. And I know without a shadow of a doubt, Christ doesn't change. He is the same today, tomorrow and forever.

So our Bible time, prayer time, giving etc should not be determined by anything other than our love for the King

Jan 11, Miracle/Complain

Dean Herman — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 17:42:00 GMT

For my own personal devotion time I usually read through the bible every year. I do this at home in my lazy boy early of a morning. My Old Testament reading this morning was Numbers 21 and God really spoke to me.

1. The miracle
The Israelites were traveling and attacked.

Numbers 21:1-3
¹When the Canaanite king of Arad, who lived in the Negev, heard that Israel was coming along the road to Atharim, he attacked the Israelites and captured some of them. ²Then Israel made this vow to the LORD: "If you will deliver these people into our hands, we will totally destroy their cities." ³The LORD listened to Israel's plea and gave the Canaanites over to them. They completely destroyed them and their towns; so the place was named Hormah.

After begging God for the safe return of their people God delivers.

2. The complaints
God performs a miracle and the very next verse the people are complaining again.

Numbers 21:4-5
⁴They traveled from Mount Hor along the route to the Red Sea, to go around Edom. But the people grew impatient on the way; ⁵they spoke against God and against Moses, and said, "Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the desert? There is no bread! There is no water! And we detest this miserable food!"

Remember, the food they detest is the manna God has hand delivered to them each and every day.

3. Consequences of complaining
God does not take complaining about what He has done lightly. I know with my kids I have often said I wished they appreciated all we've done for them a little more. Wonder if God ever feels that way with his children? Finally the complaining upsets God.

Numbers 21:6
⁶Then the LORD sent venomous snakes among them; they bit the people and many Israelites died.

4. God comes through once again
People repent, God comes through again.

Numbers 21:7-9
⁷The people came to Moses and said, "We sinned when we spoke against the LORD and against you. Pray that the LORD will take the snakes away from us." So Moses prayed for the people. ⁸The LORD said to Moses, "Make a snake and put it up on a pole; anyone who is bitten can look at it and live." ⁹So Moses made a bronze snake and put it up on a pole. Then when anyone was bitten by a snake and looked at the bronze snake, he lived.

Why did I share all of this? Because it is the perfect picture of ME! 5 years ago I was one jacked up Pastor when the Colony Theater became a reality. I knew we could reach hundreds of lost people through this building. God hand delivered a miracle. The past four 7ears we've led hundreds to Jesus Christ and seen so many miracles.

But I've seen the Promised Land. I've walked through our new building and can see the potential of reaching thousands. I've seen the space for the Kids. I can actually walk in a parking lot. Have sat in foyer area and seen the space opened up. And since I have seen what can be I have begun complaining about the miracles already experienced.

As I continued reading what happened to the Israelites I literally stopped and asked God to forgive me. Began raising my feet thinking snaked might be down there crawling around. Instead of whinging about what could be I began thanking God for what has happened. And guess what, the negative spirit began to lift.

I will continue to beg God for a miracle. I will continue walking and praying over our new building every day I can. but I won't be negative again. God knows our existing parking lot is under two inches of water. And god knows exactly what we need to get into our new building. I'm going to sit back and enjoy watching God work miracles.

Where have you experienced a miracle but now all your doing is complaining?

* Don't forget I'll be teaching a New Members class tonight.

Jan 10, Were doing everything wrong at 5 Point

Dean Herman — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 18:28:47 GMT

If you were a first time guest at 5 Point this past Sunday you would have had to ask yourself, "what are they doing trying to have church here"? Think with me what a first time guest saw,
* no parking lot anywhere close to the church
* one small sidewalk leading into building
* upon entering the building there is absolutely no foyer space whatsoever
* trying to check kids in can be very frustrating with the small space and all the people
* bathrooms are awful
The list could go on but I think you get the point. If a church growth consultant showed up Sunday he could write a book on what not to do.

But, a first time guest would also have experienced:
* countless "good mornings" from our greeter team
* tents with coffee and donuts on both sides of the building
* if they were willing to let us know they were first time guest they were given a personal tour
* kid zone is crazy but filled with people who love Jesus and kids
* would have seen an amazing decorating job for the newest series in Kid Zone
* been met at main worship auditorium doors with a smile from someone who had a pen and hand out
* would experience awesome worship
* heard a message straight from the Word of God and saw life change in both services

Yes, there are somethings were doing completely wrong due to our facilities but we can't help that. I am so proud of 5 Point because a bunch of folks have decided we're going to take what we have and do the best we can and God is honoring that. Hang in there 5 Pointers, we're gonna make it yet. God knows everything we're going through. And if this is as bad as it gets I'm alright with it. Just think, last Sunday people gave their life to Jesus. We experienced a sweet sweet time of worship and the Lords Supper. The Word was taught and people responded.

Keep inviting 5 Point, we will pack them in here like sardines until God decides to get us out of here. Just let your friends know they may have to walk a little bit and its gonna be crowded.

Jan 9, Thoughts on Sunday

Dean Herman — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 21:35:50 GMT

For one reason or another some Sundays just seem better than others. Thought yesterday was just one of those sweet times of worship:
* While sitting in my chair early Sunday morning I could hear the rain pouring down. Was thinking, "seriously God, no parking lot and its pouring down the rain?" Today will suck.
* Nothing could be further from the truth.
* Volunteers were doing their thing in a special way. Love and appreciate you guys so much.
* Band was cranking it up during rehearsal.
* Going over my notes felt like God wanted to do something special.
* We changed up the order of service. Sung two songs and then I began message.
* Started our newest series, "Shocking statements of Jesus Christ" and Jesus said some shocking stuff.
* Focused on John 6 Sunday morning.
* Christ told the people they must eat his flesh and drink his blood.
* 3 main points to the message:
     1. The masses followed
     2. Many left
     3. Only a few radicals remained
* The ones who remained we're those who we're sold out to Jesus, everyone else left because they couldn't handle this shocking statement of Jesus Christ.
* Same remains true today for many people. Willing to follow Jesus long as everything is free(Jesus had just fed the 5,000) but once something is expected many will leave.
* GREAT NEWS, several people stood and accepted Christ. Tha flat jacks me up.
* Many admitted they weren't where they needed to be in their walk with Christ.
* The Lords Supper was sweet to me for several reasons:
     a. followed a special teaching on it
     b. different than any we've ever done
     c. worship before hand was incredible
     d. people were really into message and worship which allowed the Lords Supper to be extremely sweet
* Personally, I enjoyed worship at end of message instead of beginning.
* Numbers still down some since we left parking lot but that probably won't change until we have parking lot.
* Had several guest in the house. Always like that.
* Really excited about this series.
* Kid Zone was rocking. Wish I would of grew up in church like that.
* Jacob (my 13 year old) said youth was really good last night also. I didn't go, was at home cheering on my here Tim Tebo. :)
* Great day for 5 Point.

Some other thoughts:
* If you signed up to pray walk at the building please remember to do so. I'm praying for you.
* Wednesday night is New Members class.
* Looking forward to watching National Championship game tonight.
* Really proud of the people who have begun to work out for the new year. Just wish they would hurry up and get it out of their system, crowded at Y. Happens every January.

Jan 4, Never stop trying

Dean Herman — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 19:31:16 GMT

One of the problems in the world today is everyone quits way toooooooo easy. Seems as if something doesn't work on the first or second try its over. I've come to find out that some things are worth fighting for. Some examples in my life:
* Debbie, now my wife of 31 years said no a couple of times before finally going out with me.
* Have asked hundreds of people to church and they didn't come. But years later saw some of them come to know Jesus.
* Had marriage counseling with couples who I thought had no chance. But after numerous sessions they are now happy as larks.
* Picked up countless hitch hikers and shared the gospel and not one has come to know Jesus yet. But I will keep on picking up and sharing.
* Tried to lose weight COUNTLESS times. Does that mean I should just quit or keep trying? Trying again as I write this. And by the way, diets are from the devil!
* Was told by everyone to give up on 5 Point Tabora. We would never win the court battles and now our church is thriving.
* And I was told I needed to quit striper fishing because I just couldn't seem to master it.
Last Friday we put 12 fish in the boat and I caught this 20 pounder with no help from anyone. Just me, my boat and fishing buddy. No guides or advice from anyone.

My point, just keep trying.

Now, lets be realistic. there are some things we really do need to let go. Ever watch the first few weeks of American Idol? Some of those people will never become stars. But these are the scenarios I'm talking about. I'm talking about those things in your life you know are from god. You know you can do. Well then, just keep trying.

Some other thoughts:
* GO TIGERS! Win another Orange Bowl 30 years later.
* Walked around property again today begging God for miracles. Who wants to start prayer walking with me?
* This Sunday we start, "Shocking Statements by Jesus Christ." The message is finished and I am pumped about what God is going to do. Bring a friend and come on. Ask them again, even if they have said no several times.