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.

Shout for Joy

Posted on September 5, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Worship is not a time to mumble. It’s a time for joyful shouting—a time for joyful singing. We serve a great and awesome God and he is so worthy of our praise. Let us come with thanksgiving and praise in our hearts and let’s celebrate the greatness of our God! Continue reading →

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The Right Response

Posted on September 4, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Worship doesn’t happen by just sitting in a pew; it doesn’t happen only through the singing. An important and often neglected part of the worship service takes place as we hear and respond to the Word of God as it is read and preached—such a response is a pleasing sacrifice of worship that is sure to bring God delight. Continue reading →

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Good Friends

Posted on September 3, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

We need to connect with each other on a deeper level. We need to laugh, cry, share and pray with one another. The journey is not always an easy one. But good friends are gifts from God that help us along when we get to the tough spots. Continue reading →

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I’m Bored

Posted on September 2, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Somehow, he knew that there must be more to life than hedonism and materialism. Ecclesiastes is about that pursuit for life’s meaning and purpose. It speaks about the dead end of trying to live life “under the sun”—in the pursuit of money, pleasure and things. If it seems a little hopeless at times, perhaps that is because life lived that way is hopeless, meaningless and indeed, boring. Continue reading →

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When God Asks the Questions

Posted on September 1, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

He may not answer our questions.  Even if he does, the answers (or questions) might not be to our liking. But he will be with us, and he is faithful to reward those who hold on tight to him through the trials—to those who persevere. Continue reading →

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Eternal Glory

Posted on August 31, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Paul focused the eyes of his heart on the hope that is to come—his focus was eternal glory. He knew that the rewards for his faithful service would so far outweigh the suffering and pain he had experienced here that they could only be considered light and momentary troubles. Continue reading →

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Sing a New Song

Posted on August 30, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Why new songs? God is always doing something new and fresh. We must proclaim “his salvation day after day.” If our relationship with God is growing—if there is a newness and freshness in our walk with him—there will be new songs to express that vitality. With every fresh move of the Spirit of God upon the church there are many new songs. Continue reading →

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Glowing with Glory

Posted on August 29, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

It’s God’s intention for each of us to experience a little more of that glory today than we experienced yesterday. Of course, it doesn’t just happen with time. It requires seeking the Lord.  It requires time in his presence. It requires times of intimate fellowship with the one who loves us most. Maybe that’s why some of us don’t seem to be glowing much. Maybe that’s why some of us aren’t growing much. Continue reading →

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What is that Fragrance You Are Wearing?

Posted on August 28, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

One of the best parts of the fragrance “knowledge of Christ” is that as we wear it, the aroma rises to heaven and brings a smile to the face of our heavenly Father. “For we are the aroma of Christ to God” (2:15 ESV). Isn’t it good to make God smile? Continue reading →

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Purer Than Gold

Posted on August 27, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

The conventional wisdom, illustrated by Bildad and Eliphaz, assumes that the tests come because of our disobedience. Job reminds us that this is not always the case. Sometimes the tough times are tests of our faith given to us so we can grow and mature in the faith. Continue reading →

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