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.

God Helps Those Who Cannot Help Themselves

It is commonly thought that the idea “God helps those who help themselves” is found in Scripture. It is not. In complete contrast, this scripture could easily be paraphrased: “God helps those who cannot help themselves.” Continue reading

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Turn the Tables

Jesus passion and zeal was expressed as he sought to reclaim the temple as a house of prayer for all nations. He was upset with the misuse of the temple. He was angry that the nations were left out of the house of prayer as the court of the gentiles had become a place of merchandising. Continue reading

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Servant of All

The way to greatness is found in becoming a servant. The one who would be first must first become a slave of all. These are the principles of Christ’s kingdom. Continue reading

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Growing Young

What were the “kingdom qualities” that Jesus saw in children? Why must we become like children to enter into this kingdom? Continue reading

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When Words are Many

Our words do get us in a lot of trouble.  As the proverb reminds us, “When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise.” Continue reading

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Help Me Overcome My Unbelief

Everything is possible for the one who believes. It seems simple enough. But it was a difficult lesson for the disciples of Jesus to learn. It is hard for us too. The lessons of faith are never easily learned. Continue reading

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Too Much Information

Sometimes it is easy to get bogged down or give up when you are reading through Leviticus. Regulations concerning mildew, bodily discharges and oozing sores may be a little “too much information” for most of us. But it is good to see the reason behind all these guidelines. God has chosen the people of Israel to display his glory to the nations. They are his chosen, dearly loved, holy people. Continue reading

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Stored Up Goodness

God is storing up blessings for you. He is a good, benevolent and generous God who loves you and looks to bless you. There are times when life seems unjust and unfair—times when we wonder if God is ever going to answer our prayers. But be strong and wait in hope. When the time is right he has goodness stored up for those who fear him. And he intends to bestow those blessings in the sight of all when the time is right. Continue reading

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Heart Problems

Pharisees knew how to look spiritual. They knew how to play their spiritual games. They focused on the external and lived by the rules.
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Last Minute Dinner Plans

Had they been paying attention? Were they ready for a big test? It was time to find out. Jesus saw an overwhelming situation and decided to test the faith of his young disciples. Continue reading

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