Normal, Imperfect Heroes

""James and Liz have put their finger on one reason why so many - particularly in the rising generation - are reluctant to step into leadership: we are aware of the failures of others in positions of leadership, often played out in public, and only too aware of our own shortcomings. But the world needs leaders! Normal, Imperfect Heroes reminds us that through his transformational grace, God raises up and uses unlikely people for his purposes. I pray that this book will encourage a surge of leaders to step forward humbly but confidently."" -- Archie Coates, Vicar, HTB ""In the midst of a noisy world, every so often a fresh voice appears that is worth stopping our restless activity to listen to. One that speaks old things in new ways. In this case it is a dual voice - an amalgam of husband and wife. An activist and a thinker. A joker and a priest. It works spectacularly well. They find a sweet spot that narrates their shared story of ministry but also their shared gleaning from the flawed, yet inspiring stories of the leaders of Scripture. In the midst of their glorious and at times comedic honesty, you might just find a way through our present crises of trust, leadership and polarisation. The Griers allow us a window into a world where imperfection, disagreement and embrace can co-exist by boldly letting us into theirs."" -- Andy Flannagan, Executive Director, Christians in Politics ""James and Liz brilliantly unpack biblical characters and their stories with humour and sensitivity throughout. I found the wise insights and reflections weaved into the stories challenging and helpful and am sure this book will be both a great encouragement to many from those starting out in faith to those who have been walking with Jesus a long time. A great resource tackling important issues for a time just like this."" -- Paul Friend, Director, South West Youth Ministries (SWYM) ""Grounded, real and at times humorous. James and Liz have written a thought-provoking and challenging exploration of some of the best known characters in the Bible. Flawed and fallible, we discover we are all of infinite value to a God who loves us regardless."" -- Justin Humphreys, joint CEO, Thirtyone:eight ""James and Liz present a gloriously humbling and encouraging view of what it is to lead in Jesus' Kingdom. Benefitting from their rich study of Scripture and years of experience, the book is full of examples of flawed people achieving momentous things through God. It is a reminder that, even when we feel like failures, God is bigger. And that is a reminder we all need regularly."" -- Rt Revd Dr Emma Ineson, Bishop of Kensington ""I have been privileged to have seen the remarkable ministry of Bishop James and Liz Grier. James (with Liz's help) has given an intriguing look at some of the flawed heroes of the Bible with delightful touches of humour to carry the lessons to be learned."" -- Canon David MacInnes, Former Rector, St Aldate's Church, Oxford ""James and Liz's book comes at a cultural moment when we need honest and more nuanced conversations about the nature of human brokenness in the context of Christian leadership. This hope-filled book is full of the Grier's own hard-worn pastoral experience alongside biblical insights from less-than-ideal-leaders. They give comfort and challenge in equal measure."" -- Revd Pete Norris, Location Pastor, Gas Street, Birmingham ""Normal, Imperfect Heroes contains both challenge and encouragement to follow Jesus faithfully in whatever position of influence and leadership we might have. And ultimately, James and Liz remind us that failure and weakness don't have the final word - God very much does."" -- Emma Worrall, Open Doors UK ""In the normal, imperfect, messy journey of my own life and ministry, James and Liz Grier have been kind and most generous companions.They've walked with me through many chapters of my story, and in this book, they walk with us through the stories of many of the ""heroes"" of Scripture, unpacking the truth and wisdom of Bible characters with fresh authority. Ultimately, this book gives a fresh revelation of the free and generous love of Jesus, the only unfailing hero.' -- Canon Sarah Yardley, writer, speaker, evangelist, Lectio 365 contributor