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.

Behind the Scenes

Posted on August 18, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

While the book of Esther never mentions the name of God, his working is seen throughout the book. While God may not be front and center, he is clearly working behind the scenes. Continue reading →

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Time to Celebrate

Posted on August 17, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

As we grow in our relationship with Christ, as we walk with him through the trials of life, he produces joy in the most unusual places and at the most unexpected times. As we begin to see his hand at work in our lives, our hearts are filled with joy. Continue reading →

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I Could Sing of Your Love Forever

Posted on August 16, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

God’s love is a roof of protection from the unkind and hateful words and deeds of others. When all the world seems against me, I know that God loves me. Abiding in his love brings healing to the wounds I have suffered. It restores my soul and brings hope. It enables me to come and find rest for my soul. Continue reading →

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All Things to All People

Posted on August 15, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

We have a message for all ages, for all peoples, for all languages and cultures. Let us seek to understand those we are communicating with, so we can better relate the gospel to them in ways that best communicate the truth. Continue reading →

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Strengthened by Joy

Posted on August 14, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Each day is an opportunity for celebration as we hear and understand God’s word. Understanding it brings joy, and that “joy of the Lord is our strength” (8:12). God teaches us principles that enable us to live “life to the full.” His promises give us hope that strengthens us through the most difficult of times. Continue reading →

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Building Up or Tearing Down

Posted on August 13, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Tearing down is simple. Building up is an art. Anyone can criticize; it takes no great skill to see the problems. It takes a real leader not to be distracted by the words that tear down; to keep to the task despite criticism. Continue reading →

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Bending God’s Ear

Posted on August 12, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Awestruck by God’s greatness, amazed by his abounding love toward him, David always knew where to turn. No matter how difficult the circumstances or the opposition, he knew his God was greater; he knew his God loved him Continue reading →

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Constructive Praying

Posted on August 11, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Like Nehemiah, lay the foundation of prayer and look for the opportunity to act. This is the way to glorify God and to accomplish great things for him. Continue reading →

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Hope for the Hopeless

Posted on August 10, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Despite our failures, our attempts to distance ourselves from God, our deliberate disobedience, our drifting from the principles of his word, God is still faithful and forgiving. He is a God of grace and mercy. He is a God of hope (Rom. 15:13). He doesn’t give up on his people—even the ones who seem hopeless. People like you and me. Continue reading →

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Seeking the Blessing of God

Posted on August 9, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

We all stand in need of the hand of the Lord (his blessing) each and every day. We just can’t do it alone. Therefore we go to him daily in prayer seeking his blessing as we pray, and as we hear and obey his word. Continue reading →

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