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.

Rejoice Greatly!

Posted on December 26, 2024 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

In Jesus, the prophecies find fulfillment. He is the Messiah, gentle and riding on a donkey. Years before it comes to pass, Zechariah envisioned the gentle King and rejoiced. Indeed, the celebration of Christ’s coming to earth is a reason for all of us to rejoice. So rejoice, O daughter of Zion! As another great Christmas hymn says so well: “Joy to the world the Lord is come. Let earth receive her King. Let every heart prepare Him room and heaven and nature sing!” Continue reading →

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Emmanuel: God with Us

Posted on December 25, 2024 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

To the one who receives Him, he gives the greatest gift of all, Eternal life. Joy to the world! Merry Christmas! Continue reading →

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Generous Hearts

Posted on December 24, 2024 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

This Christmas season is a powerful reminder of the generous heart of our God who gave his one and only son for us. Let your heart be a reflection of his. Continue reading →

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Not by Might

Posted on December 23, 2024 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

God often delights in choosing and anointing the weak and the foolish so that through his power they can accomplish unexpected things. Then all the glory goes to him. Continue reading →

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Sing His Praise

Posted on December 22, 2024 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Praise can transform your life. It takes our eyes off of ourselves and our problems and turns them to see the greatness and glory of our God. As we see his glory, our perspective changes. Praise shakes off the gloom and brings deep joy. Continue reading →

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The Accuser

Posted on December 21, 2024 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

He’s a liar, a thief, a deceiver. He’s the accuser of our brothers and sisters in Christ. An enemy to God and all his ways, Satan steals, kills and destroys and tries desperately to cause as much damage and havoc as he can. But his days are numbered: “He is filled with fury, because he knows his time is short” (12:12) and he has been “hurled down” (12:10). Continue reading →

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Missing Out on the Blessing

Posted on December 20, 2024 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

The people procrastinated their obedience. They told the Lord, “Yes we will build the temple someday, but not yet.” They became more concerned with their own personal pleasure and building their own houses, while they neglected their call to rebuild the temple. Delaying their obedience, they lost out on the blessing of God. Continue reading →

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Making God Sing

Posted on December 19, 2024 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

December 19 Making God Sing  Today’s Scripture Readings: Psalm 143:7-12; Zephaniah 1:1-3:20; Revelation 10:1-11; Proverbs 30:11-14 Today’s Scripture Focus: Zephaniah 1-3 The Lord your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, … Continue reading →

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From Questions to Praise

Posted on December 18, 2024 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Habakkuk is resting in the amazing purposes of God. He may not understand all that is going on–all that God is doing–he may not understand his timing, but he knows that he can be trusted. He may not like the path ahead (I’m sure he didn’t) but he is still able to find joy, as he trusts the sovereign hand of the one who loves his children with an everlasting love. Continue reading →

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Never Alone

Posted on December 17, 2024 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Christmas can be a lonely time. Memories of family and friends who are no longer with us haunt us especially this time of the year. Separation from those you love when you’d rather be “home for Christmas” brings a sense of loneliness. Continue reading →

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