One-line summary:

A thought-provoking novel that explores the transformative power of living by the question “What would Jesus do?”

The Story:

“In His Steps” by Charles M. Sheldon is a captivating novel that takes place in the late 19th century and follows the lives of several individuals in the fictional town of Raymond. The story begins when Reverend Henry Maxwell challenges his congregation to consider the question, “What would Jesus do?” before making any decision. This simple question sets off a chain of events that leads the characters on a journey of self-discovery, sacrifice, and social reform.

The protagonist, Reverend Maxwell, is deeply moved by the challenge he poses to his congregation. He decides to live by this question himself and encourages others to do the same. As the story unfolds, we meet a diverse group of characters, including Rachel Winslow, a talented singer struggling to make ends meet, and Jasper Chase, a wealthy businessman. Each character faces their own moral dilemmas and must grapple with the question of how to align their actions with the teachings of Jesus.

As the characters begin to live out their faith in practical ways, they encounter resistance and criticism from those around them. Rachel, for example, faces rejection from the music industry when she refuses to compromise her values. Jasper, on the other hand, faces opposition from his business associates when he decides to prioritize the well-being of his employees over profit. Despite these challenges, the characters remain steadfast in their commitment to follow Jesus’ example.

The Impact:

Through its thought-provoking narrative, “In His Steps” explores the themes of social justice, personal responsibility, and the power of faith in action. The novel challenges readers to consider the implications of their own choices and to live with integrity, even in the face of adversity.

Key takeaways from “In His Steps” include:

• Living by example: The novel emphasizes the importance of aligning one’s actions with one’s beliefs, even when it is difficult or unpopular.
• Empathy and compassion: The characters in the story learn the value of seeing the world through the eyes of others and acting with kindness and understanding.
• Social reform: “In His Steps” highlights the need for individuals to take an active role in addressing social issues and working towards a more just and equitable society.

A Memorable Quote:

“What would Jesus do?” – Charles M. Sheldon

“In His Steps” is a timeless novel that challenges readers to examine their own lives and consider the impact of their choices. It serves as a reminder that faith is not just a set of beliefs, but a call to action. By living out the teachings of Jesus in their daily lives, the characters in the story inspire us to do the same.