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.

The Real Thing

Posted on September 16, 2023 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

The real thing—the heart of the gospel—is Christ living in you and me. The key to living the Christian life is not trying hard to live by the rules in my own strength and power. It is all about a grace based relationship with the one who loves me most—Jesus. Continue reading →

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Stealing Freedom

Posted on September 15, 2023 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

The focus of true Christianity is not performance, but walking with God in a close intimate relationship. It’s not about rule keeping to look spiritual, but about serving God because I love him. It’s a journey where I know that I am loved by God through it all, and where he comes alongside each step of the way to help me on my way. Continue reading →

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Good News

Posted on September 14, 2023 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

The gospel is good news for all people. We should not do anything to confuse or pervert it. We should not add to it. Continue reading →

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Passing the Test

Posted on September 13, 2023 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Paul reminds us that we sometimes need to check our progress in the faith. Are we growing up in the faith? Are we becoming more and more like Jesus? Or are we just drifting along without any apparent progress, or worse, losing ground? Continue reading →

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The Big Picture

Posted on September 12, 2023 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

When what we see with our eyes doesn’t seem to make sense, it is time to look at the big picture—to get an eternal perspective. Continue reading →

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He Will Reign

Posted on September 11, 2023 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Until that day, we live in a battle zone. Evil is very much a part of our reality. Yet God is still on the throne and he is still accomplishing his purposes, even in making good of tragedy (Romans 8:28). Yet all creation looks to the day Christ will return to rule and reign with justice and righteousness forever and ever. Continue reading →

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Holy Love

Posted on September 10, 2023 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

God is holy, perfectly holy. God is love, unfailing steadfast love. Understanding the first truth (his holiness) makes the second truth (his love) even more amazing. Continue reading →

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Boasting in Weakness

Posted on September 9, 2023 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Most of us spend a lot of energy trying to keep up a good front– to appear strong. We try very hard to pretend that everything is perfect. We try very hard to hide our weaknesses. Paul said, “I boast in my weakness.” Continue reading →

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Demolishing Strongholds

Posted on September 8, 2023 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

The enemy of our souls is sneaky. Knowing our weaknesses, he sets temptations before us. In our pain—our weakness—they appear to be castles of refuge, safety and pleasure. So we run to them to ease our pain, to meet our needs and desires or, sometimes, just for the fun of it.   Continue reading →

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Tired of Waiting

Posted on September 7, 2023 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Have you ever had a time when you grew tired of waiting for the answer to your prayer? Continue reading →

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