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.

Sackcloth to Joy

The Christian life is characterized by joy. Not that it is always easy—it is not. But joy flows from a relationship with Christ, not from our circumstances, so it is may be found in the most unusual places—especially the difficult ones. Continue reading

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The Most Important Lesson Jesus Taught Us

My new sermon series on the Lord’s Prayer on YouTube.

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Lord of All

Jesus is Lord of all. Whatever you are facing, know that he has authority over it. He is still able to calm the storm, push back the forces of darkness, heal a broken body and even to raise the dead.  Nothing is too difficult for Him! Take your situation to him. Trust Him. Continue reading

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Priestly Duties

With all the struggles and difficulties life brings we all stand in need of blessing. Continue reading

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Rooted Firmly and Bearing Fruit

Jesus parable reminds us that there are many obstacles to our spiritual growth. God’s word given to us does not always produce a bumper crop. Sometimes the word is stolen. Sometimes because of “rocky soil,” the word gets started quickly but withers. Sometimes the thorns choke the word so that it does not bear grain. Continue reading

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Keep the Fire Burning

Spiritual disciplines like prayer, meditation and the study of the Word help to tend the fire. The sacrifice of praise also fuels the passion. These disciplines keep our spiritual passion burning strong. Continue reading

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Whom Shall I Fear?

David often found himself in a place where he had to face his fears. Chased relentlessly by his enemies, he spent much of his life seeking a safe place to hide. Continue reading

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A Solitary Place

We dare not neglect the solitary place—the place where we can get alone and meet with our Heavenly Father—to have intimate conversation with the one who loves us most. Find a quiet place and pour out your heart to him. Make it a daily practice and don’t let anything crowd out those special times in your schedule. Continue reading

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Dwelling Place

With meticulous detail, every last instruction was followed in preparing a tabernacle for the Lord. Now it was time to consecrate the tabernacle–time to anoint it with oil and set it apart for holy use. And time to set apart the priests by anointing them for God’s service. Continue reading

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Fearing God Without Being Afraid

To rightly revere God, to stand in awe of Him, is to fear Him. This “astonished reverence” is foundational to a life lived in the fullness of his blessing, a life of intimate fellowship that brings the Father pleasure and brings our hearts deep satisfaction. Continue reading

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