Jack Haberer
Special guest
Jack (officially, John Henry, Jr.) Haberer is an author, editor and recently retired pastor--although his enthusiasm for the faith overflows relentlessly. He is the former editor of The Presbyterian Outlook, an independent, twice monthly, national news and resource magazine. He previously served congregations in Satellite Beach, Fla., Houston, Tex., Naples, Fla., Allentown, Pa., and Kerrville, Tex. His fourth, highly anticipated book, was published June 27, 2024: "Swimming with the Sharks: Leading the Full Spectrum Church in a Red-and-Blue World." He has served on several high-profile committees, including the Theological Task Force on Peace, Unity and Purity of the Church (2001-2006), and currently, The Special Committee to Write a New Confession. In the 1990's he served as board chair for two PC(USA) renewal organizations. In the 1970’s, as a teenager, he launched a coffeehouse that helped fuel the Jesus Movement in northern New Jersey. He plays piano and guitar. He skis and surfs. He and his wife Barbie live in Kerrville, Texas. They have 2 grown children and 6 grandchildren.
Jack Haberer has been a guest on 1 episode.
-
Episode 296: Swimming With The Sharks: Leading the Full Spectrum Church in a Red-and-Blue World, with Jack Haberer
July 17th, 2025 | 47 mins 37 secs
In this episode of Give and Take, Scott Jones sits down with pastor and author Jack Haberer to discuss his new book, Swimming With the Sharks: Leading the Full Spectrum Church in a Red-and-Blue World. As political polarization increasingly shapes—and often divides—American congregations, Jack brings hard-earned wisdom, theological depth, and pastoral sensitivity to the challenge of leading churches across ideological lines.
Drawing from decades of ministry in diverse settings, Jack shares real-world stories, practical insights, and a hopeful vision for what it means to shepherd a church that refuses to split down party lines. The conversation explores how pastors can stay rooted in the gospel while navigating cultural landmines, how churches can become spaces of faithful disagreement and spiritual growth, and why unity doesn’t have to mean uniformity.
Whether you’re a church leader, a congregant, or just someone curious about faith in a polarized age, this episode offers honest reflections and tangible guidance for engaging the tension with grace and courage.
Listen in and discover how to swim with the sharks—and lead with love.