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.

When Jesus Got Angry

Posted on May 2, 2021 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

The temple was to be a place of worship and prayer. It had become a smelly, noisy marketplace. The true purpose of the temple was being lost in the confusion created by sheep and cattle and doves and money exchange. Continue reading →

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Behold the Lamb of God (May 1)

Posted on May 1, 2021 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

From the beginning to end, the Gospel of John paints a spectacular and exalted picture of Jesus. The testimony of John the Baptist is a case in point. What do we learn about Jesus’ identity through his testimony as recounted in the gospel of John? Continue reading →

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Message of Life (Apr 30)

Posted on April 30, 2021 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

To a world in darkness, he brings light. To all who receive him, he brings life. God could have communicated his most important message–the message of salvation, the message of life–only through words. He certainly did spell it out clearly in his scripture. Yet, God’s love for us was so great, that he decided to communicate the message not only through words, but also by a living demonstration as Jesus humbles himself and takes on human flesh. God incarnate–the Word with us. Continue reading →

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Waiting and Witnessing (Apr 29)

Posted on April 29, 2021 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

April 29 Waiting and Witnessing Today’s Scripture Readings: Psalm 61:5-8| Judges 9:22-10:18| Luke 24:13-53| Proverbs 14:11-12 Today’s Scripture Focus:   Luke 24 (NIV)      [48] You are witnesses of these things. [49] I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but … Continue reading →

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Listen (Apr 28)

Posted on April 28, 2021 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Like the Psalmist, we often wonder if our prayers are getting through. We want to make sure we have God’s full attention. We cry out, “Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer.” Continue reading →

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Mighty Warrior (Apr 26)

Posted on April 26, 2021 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

The Bible often shows us that God sees the potential in us long before we do. Such was the case for Gideon. Based on what we read about Gideon, we might be tempted to see only his fears, his questions and his doubts. Gideon himself was surprised by God’s call: “Please, Lord, how can I save Israel? Behold, my clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my father’s house” (Judges 6:15 -ESV). Continue reading →

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The Strength to Go On (Apr 25)

Posted on April 25, 2021 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Facing denial, betrayal, mocking, scourging and a cruel painful death on a cross, Jesus went to his usual place to pray: The Mount of Olives. This solitary place was a regular place of refuge for Jesus where he would pour out his heart to the Father. Continue reading →

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Never Ending Cycle

Posted on April 24, 2021 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

April 24 Never Ending Cycle Today’s Scripture Readings: Psalm 59:6-13 | Judges 2:10-3:31 | Luke 22:14-34 | Proverbs 14:22 Today’s Scripture Focus: Judges 2 Then the LORD raised up judges, who saved them out of the hands of these raiders. 17 … Continue reading →

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Time Well Spent (Apr 23)

Posted on April 23, 2021 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Likely weary from a day of teaching and ministry, Jesus finds a solitary place—and as was his practice—he spends extended time in prayer. Clearly this is a pattern rooted in delight rather than duty—this is a time and place set apart to enjoy fellowship with his Father in prayer. Continue reading →

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As For Me and My House (Apr 22)

Posted on April 22, 2021 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

It is good to remember the blessings of God—to retrace our paths to see the footprints of God. It is good to seriously consider the cost of commitment. It is good to set up memorial markers (some record of our commitment). Most importantly, we must choose wisely and follow through on that commitment with God’s grace in the power of the Holy Spirit. Choose this day whom you will serve. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD! Continue reading →

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