Charles M. Sheldon’s novel ‘In His Steps’ is a thought-provoking and socially conscious work that delves into the theme of Christian discipleship. Set in the late 19th century, the book follows the residents of the small town of Raymond as they commit to making decisions based on the question ‘What Would Jesus Do?’. Sheldon’s writing style is rich in moral fervor and social commentary, reflecting the sentiments of the Social Gospel movement of the time. The narrative is filled with moral dilemmas and challenges faced by the characters, making it a compelling read for those interested in exploring the intersection of faith and everyday life. ‘In His Steps’ is not only a literary work but also a significant piece of religious and social history, shedding light on the values and struggles of the era. Charles M. Sheldon, a prominent Congregationalist minister, wrote ‘In His Steps’ in response to his observations of societal injustices and the need for a deeper commitment to Christian principles. His own dedication to social reform and moral integrity is evident in the novel, making it a powerful call to action for readers to consider their own faith and actions. I highly recommend ‘In His Steps’ to anyone seeking a thought-provoking and spiritually enriching read that challenges conventional notions of Christian discipleship.
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Charles Monroe Sheldon was an American minister in the Congregational churches and leader of the Social Gospel movement. Born on February 26, 1857, in Wellsville, New York, Sheldon grew up to be an influential pastor and author, best known for penning the classic Christian novel, ‘In His Steps’ (1896). This book, which introduced the phrase ‘What Would Jesus Do?’, had a significant impact on Christian and social thought, encouraging readers to consider Jesus’s example when making decisions. Sheldon’s writing is distinguished by his deep faith and commitment to social reform, themes that dominate much of his work. His literary style often employed storytelling to challenge the moral and ethical complacency of the time, and ‘In His Steps’ was just one of more than 30 books he wrote. Sheldon spent a significant portion of his life serving as pastor of Central Congregational Church in Topeka, Kansas, where he put into practice the social gospel he preached, advocating for better living conditions and emphasizing the moral responsibility of individuals and society. His contributions to religious literature and the Social Gospel movement continue to be remembered as vital steps towards addressing the social ills of the Gilded Age and Progressive Era. Sheldon passed away on February 24, 1946, leaving behind a legacy defined by his commitment to faith-inspired social change.