Charles Sheldon

Charles Monroe Sheldon (1857-1946) was an American minister and author best known for writing the Christian novel "In His Steps" (1896), which popularized the phrase "What Would Jesus Do?" The book went on to sell over 30 million copies and became one of the best-selling religious novels of all time. As a Congregationalist minister in Topeka, Kansas, Sheldon pioneered the Social Gospel movement, which aimed to apply Christian ethics to social problems like poverty, inequality, and labor issues. His sermons often took the form of stories, which he would read as serialized chapters to his congregation before publishing them as novels. Beyond "In His Steps," Sheldon authored numerous other Christian works including "The Crucifixion of Philip Strong" (1893) and "The Miracle at Markham" (1899). In 1900, he gained national attention when he took control of the Topeka Daily Capital newspaper for a week, running it as he believed Jesus would, refusing ads for alcohol, tobacco, and harmful patent medicines. Sheldon's writing style focused on practical Christianity and social reform, emphasizing personal responsibility and moral decision-making in everyday situations. His legacy continues through the enduring "WWJD" (What Would Jesus Do?) movement, which experienced a major revival in the 1990s and remains influential in Christian culture.

Readers connect strongly with the moral questions posed in Sheldon's works, particularly "In His Steps." Many appreciate the practical applications of Christian principles to real-world situations. Readers liked: - Clear, straightforward writing style - Relatable characters facing moral dilemmas - Practical examples of applying faith to daily life - Emphasis on social responsibility - Timeless themes that remain relevant Common criticisms: - Simplistic solutions to complex problems - Dated Victorian-era dialogue and pacing - Repetitive plot structures - Heavy-handed messaging - Characters sometimes feel one-dimensional Ratings across platforms: - Goodreads: "In His Steps" 4.1/5 (15,000+ ratings) - Amazon: 4.5/5 (1,000+ reviews) - Christian Book Distributors: 4.7/5 (200+ reviews) One reader noted: "Makes you examine your own choices and values." Another commented: "The writing is basic but the message hits home." A critical review stated: "Good intentions but oversimplifies complex social issues."

In His Steps (1896) A minister challenges his congregation to ask "What Would Jesus Do?" before making decisions, leading to dramatic changes in their lives and community.

The Crucifixion of Philip Strong (1894) A minister attempts to transform his wealthy church by following Christ's teachings literally, facing resistance and personal hardships.

Robert Hardy's Seven Days (1893) A businessman receives a divine message that he has only seven days to live and must reevaluate his life choices.

The Miracle at Markham (1899) Multiple churches in a small town unite to address social problems through practical Christianity.

Born to Serve (1900) A young woman struggles between pursuing personal ambitions and dedicating her life to Christian service.

The Heart of the World (1905) Interconnected stories of city dwellers whose lives are changed through practical applications of Christian principles.

The Narrow Gate (1903) A wealthy family faces moral decisions regarding their business practices and social responsibilities.

John King's Question Class (1899) A Sunday school teacher uses the Socratic method to help students apply Biblical teachings to modern life.

John Bunyan wrote Christian allegories that emphasize moral choices and spiritual journeys. His work "The Pilgrim's Progress" shares Sheldon's focus on characters facing ethical decisions and living out their faith.

Hannah Whitall Smith focused on practical Christianity and daily application of faith principles. Her writing style centers on making spiritual concepts accessible to everyday readers, similar to Sheldon's approach in "In His Steps."

E.M. Bounds wrote extensively about prayer and Christian discipleship in late 19th century America. His works examine themes of personal devotion and spiritual discipline that parallel Sheldon's emphasis on practical faith.

Andrew Murray produced works about Christian living and spiritual transformation during the same era as Sheldon. His books focus on the practical implementation of faith principles in daily life and decision-making.

Catherine Marshall wrote narratives that blend fiction with Christian principles and ethical decision-making. Her works explore characters wrestling with faith-based choices in real-world situations, echoing Sheldon's narrative approach.