Swimming with the Sharks

""Swimming with the Sharks gives a glimpse of hope in a time of ongoing division within American Christianity that is exacerbated by both political and secular influences. With insights cultivated over fifty years of pastoral ministry and a commitment to fostering unity across denominations and ideologies, Jack Haberer provides a vital resource for all believers seeking a better way forward in embodying the good news of Jesus."" --Mark Batterson, lead pastor, National Community Church ""When Jack Haberer speaks, I listen. Whatever he writes, I read. Most denominational discourse is predictable and scripted. But Jack is unpredictable. He loves Jesus and the church--especially local congregations--more than ecclesiastical tribalism. This book is a masterpiece of bridge-building that celebrates the diversity and unity of the body of Christ. Read it and rejoice."" --Greg Anderson, graduate chaplain, Wheaton College ""The church model that Jack unveils in this very readable book helped our church to flourish in the 1980s and '90s and still works today. His publication of what he did with us and with subsequent congregations around the country is a gift for all who will read it."" --Becky Cavallucci, elder, Trinity Wellsprings Church ""If you're heading into shark-infested waters--and that includes everyone in ministry in this day and age--Jack Haberer's book belongs in your survival pack. His insights and breadth of pastoral experience will enrich any voyage to which you've been called."" --Glenn McDonald, author of Morning Reflections ""Jack Haberer acknowledges the many different ways we understand who Jesus is and what Jesus most deeply calls the church to be. He makes a strong case that to be the most faithful expression of the church, every congregation and denomination needs to allow for that wide diversity within its own beloved community. Haberer's book is a must-read for pastors and church leaders in this era of theological and political hyper-partisanship."" --Jim Kitchens, co-founder, PneuMatrix ""Leadership is a challenge, especially during polarized times when institutions are often cracked, broken, and seemingly on the verge of tearing themselves apart. In such times, church leadership becomes even harder as faith communities struggle to live up to their ideals. Drawing on his personal journey across America's complicated spiritual landscape, Jack Haberer offers practical advice rooted in deep theological thinking, providing a path toward achieving St. Paul's admonition in Galatians 5:13: 'By love serve one another.'"" --Jonathan Addleton, rector/president, Forman Christian College