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.

Praying and Going

Posted on January 14, 2022 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Confronted by the immense need, Jesus called the disciples to pray.  He told them, “the harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field” (9:37). Continue reading →

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A Risk of Faith

Posted on January 13, 2022 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Scripture tells us that “Without faith it is impossible to please God” (Hebrews 11:6). Note how pleased Jesus was to find faith in each of these people. Also note the incredible things accomplished through that faith. Continue reading →

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Bring Them to Jesus

Posted on January 12, 2022 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

All around us are friends in desperate need of an encounter with Jesus. Two stories in Matthew 9 remind us that we can be used by God to bring people to Jesus. Continue reading →

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Calming the Storm

Posted on January 11, 2022 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Throughout the gospels, Jesus shows again and again his authority to heal, to cast out demons, and to do all sorts of miracles. Here, he demonstrates authority over the wind and sea. Continue reading →

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Straight Paths

Posted on January 10, 2022 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Life is a journey with many twists and turns. To us, the path ahead is uncharted and often unpredictable. Yet to God, the path is seen clearly. He sees the implications of every fork in the road. He knows what is ahead and how the path ahead fits in with his purposes and plans. Like a good shepherd, he desires to lead and guide us. Continue reading →

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God Will Provide

Posted on January 9, 2022 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

How do you respond when God’s command to you is absolutely unthinkable?  That is the dilemma Abraham faces. Continue reading →

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Worry or Trust?

Posted on January 8, 2022 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

January 8 Worry or Trust? Today’s Scripture Readings: Psalms 6:1-3 | Genesis 18:20-19:38 | Matthew 6:25-7:14 | Proverbs 2:6-15 Today’s Scripture Focus: Matthew 6:25-7:14 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What … Continue reading →

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Too Good to be True

Posted on January 7, 2022 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

How could she help but laugh?  It seemed too good to be true.  “So Sarah laughed to herself as she thought, ‘after I am worn out and my master is old, will I now have this pleasure?'”  She had longed for a child for many years. Now, well after her childbearing years were over, God promised that she would bear a son. Continue reading →

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Waiting Expectantly

Posted on January 6, 2022 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

January 6 Waiting Expectantly Today’s Scripture Readings: Psalms 5:1-3 | Genesis 13:6 – 15:21 | Matthew 5:27-48 | Proverbs 1:29 – 33 Today’s Scripture Focus: Psalms 5:1-3 In the morning, LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay … Continue reading →

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Good News in Unlikely Places

Posted on January 5, 2022 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

January 5 Good News in Unlikely Places Today’s Scripture Readings: Psalms 4:1-8 | Genesis 11:1-13:5 | Matthew 5:1- 26 | Proverbs 1:24-28 Today’s Scripture Focus: Matthew 5:1-26 Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. … Continue reading →

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