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.

Time Well Spent

Posted on April 23, 2025 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

Posted on April 22, 2025 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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Every Promise

Posted on April 21, 2025 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

This text is also a reminder that the promises have conditions. Failure to meet those conditions has consequences. “But just as all the good things have been fulfilled, so the Lord will bring upon you all the evil things . . . if you transgress the covenant.” Promises may appear to be unfulfilled, but often God is waiting for conditions to be met Continue reading →

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Rest

Posted on April 20, 2025 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Rest
by Jeff Syverson
After years of struggle and battle in taking the land, now they wrestle given rest in the promised Land. Jesus too, calls us to give up our striving and find rest in our relationship with him. Continue reading →

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Robbed of Its Purpose

Posted on April 19, 2025 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

When personal agendas are more important than God’s agenda, when our personal convenience is more important than the needs of the lost, we fall prey to the same temptation. When my personal preferences are holding the church hostage to God’s design to reach out effectively, then the church has been robbed of its purpose for existence. The house of prayer becomes a den of robbers. Continue reading →

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Who Do You Eat With?

Posted on April 18, 2025 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Jesus prioritized people—especially those that good society rejected—those that weren’t really welcome in the place of worship; those that might bring dishonor to my table-fellowship. Continue reading →

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Cast Your Cares

Posted on April 17, 2025 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

David casts his cares on the LORD and finds that the LORD sustains him. He knows that God will never let the righteous fall. He reaffirms his trust: “But as for me, I trust in you.” Continue reading →

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We Should Not Give Up

Posted on April 16, 2025 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

When our prayers are not immediately answered, our faith is stretched and tested. It is easy to give up. It’s easy to throw in the towel and not make the effort to persevere in prayer. Continue reading →

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Where Are the Other Nine?

Posted on April 15, 2025 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

It is easy to take the blessings of God for granted. It is easy for us to think we deserve the good things God has given us. It is easy to get so caught up in the celebration that we forget to give thanks. Continue reading →

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How Many Times?

Posted on April 14, 2025 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

As it was for the disciples, this teaching may seem difficult for us. They said, “Increase our faith!” Sometimes we need the same. Ask God to give you the strength to take the offense to the cross and leave it there. It may seem too difficult for you—but nothing is too difficult for God. He can help you forgive. Continue reading →

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