Author Archives: pastorjeffsneighborhood

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About pastorjeffsneighborhood

Born and raised in Minnesota, I have served in churches in Minnesota, Ohio, Oregon and California. I am a graduate of Crown College (MN) and George Fox Evangelical Seminary (OR). I have also done additional graduate studies in New Testament Studies at the Center for Advanced Theological Studies at Fuller Theological Seminary (CA). I am also a graduate of the College of Prayer. Having served as the Academic Dean and Program Director at Horizon Institute of Los Angeles for several years, I have returned to the pastorate and serve as Pastor of Big Trees Community Bible Church in Arnold, CA.

Demolishing Strongholds

Posted on September 8, 2022 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

The enemy of our souls is sneaky. Knowing our weaknesses, he sets temptations before us. In our pain—our weakness—they appear to be castles of refuge, safety and pleasure. So we run to them to ease our pain, to meet our needs and desires or, sometimes, just for the fun of it. Continue reading →

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Tired of Waiting

Posted on September 7, 2022 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Can you relate to the Psalmist? Have you ever had a time when you grew tired of waiting for the answer to your prayer? Maybe you are like me and you feel that way most every day. Continue reading →

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Oh Be Careful Little Eyes

Posted on September 6, 2022 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Images are powerful. One ancient tradition says that a picture is worth a thousand words. Indeed, we know it is true. Television is a powerful medium. So are movies. So is the Internet. Each is powerful for good or for evil. Continue reading →

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Shout for Joy

Posted on September 5, 2022 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

In light of the greatness of our God, in light of what Christ has done for us, should there not be a little shouting when we get together to celebrate his greatness and declare his worth? Continue reading →

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The Right Response

Posted on September 4, 2022 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

September 4 The Right Response Today’s Scripture Readings: Psalm 99:1-9 | Ecclesiastes 7:1 — 9:18 | 2 Corinthians 7:8-16 | Proverbs 22:17-19 Today’s Scripture Focus: 2 Corinthians 7 Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, … Continue reading →

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Good Friends

Posted on September 3, 2022 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

It’s a dangerous thing to try to live the Christian life on your own. You really do need some friends for the journey; Friends who will be there to encourage you when you get down; Friends who will keep you accountable and speak the truth in love when you are tempted to fall; Friends who will be faithful even when you do fall; Friends who will accept you and love you through it all. Continue reading →

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I’m Bored

Posted on September 2, 2022 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

The Teacher is bored. “Everything is meaningless” “All things are wearisome.” He has tried stimulating every one of his senses with the best life could offer. Where did it take him? Nowhere. He was bored. Continue reading →

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When God Asks the Questions

Posted on September 1, 2022 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Job has asked his questions. He has finally said all that he could think of to say. Now he is waiting for the answers. Then something surprising happens. God shows up not to answer the questions, but to ask His own. Continue reading →

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Eternal Glory

Posted on August 31, 2022 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

I love the phrase Paul uses to describe troubles: “Our light and momentary troubles.” Remember his light and momentary troubles? “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed, perplexed but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned, struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed” (4:8-10). Continue reading →

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Sing a New Song

Posted on August 30, 2022 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Do you like to sing new songs? The Psalmist did. I do too. It’s not that there aren’t great old familiar songs to sing—and there is a place for that too. But, we dare not get stuck in a rut. Continue reading →

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