Why should I read 'In His Steps'?

This book offers a compelling exploration of practical Christianity and moral integrity that remains relevant over a century after its publication. Through its character-driven narrative, it challenges readers to examine their own ethical choices and consider how faith might transform everyday actions, making it both inspirational and thought-provoking.

What is the background/setting of 'In His Steps'?

Set in the late 19th century in the fictional Midwestern town of Raymond, the story unfolds against a backdrop of industrialization and social inequality. The setting reflects typical American small-town life of the era, with clear class divisions between wealthy citizens like Rachel Winslow and struggling workers like Jasper Chase, which becomes central to the characters' moral dilemmas.

What are the most memorable quotes?

The most famous line is the central question 'What would Jesus do?' that guides the characters' actions. Another significant quote comes from Rev. Maxwell's sermon: 'If our Christianity is going to be worth anything to the world, it must cost us something.' These phrases encapsulate the book's core message of sacrificial faith.

What writing style does the author use?

Charles Sheldon employs a straightforward, sermon-like narrative style with clear moral lessons and minimal literary embellishment. The prose is accessible and earnest, reflecting his background as a minister, with dialogue-heavy scenes that dramatize ethical dilemmas rather than focusing on complex character psychology.

What minor details add significant meaning?

Small actions like Rachel Winslow giving up her opera career to sing in rescue missions, or Edward Norman refusing profitable but unethical advertising in his newspaper, demonstrate how the 'What would Jesus do?' pledge transforms seemingly ordinary decisions. These details show Christianity as lived practice rather than abstract belief.

What are some subtle foreshadowing moments?

Early descriptions of the shabby neighborhood where the homeless man dies foreshadow the social justice themes that dominate the story. Jasper Chase's initial hesitation about the pledge subtly hints at his eventual failure to maintain it, contrasting with other characters' growing commitment.

What unexpected character connections exist?

The homeless man who dies in Rev. Maxwell's church connects all four main characters—his death prompts Maxwell's sermon, his story influences Norman's newspaper ethics, his plight moves Rachel's charitable work, and his circumstances challenge Wright's business practices. This creates a web of moral responsibility linking characters across social classes.

What are unspoken character motivations?

Beneath their spiritual commitment, characters harbor unspoken fears—Maxwell worries about losing his congregation's approval, Norman fears financial ruin for his newspaper, and Rachel struggles with sacrificing her artistic ambitions. These hidden tensions make their sacrifices more meaningful when they choose faith over personal security.

What psychological complexities do characters exhibit?

Jasper Chase represents the most complex psychology—a talented writer who initially joins the pledge but ultimately abandons it when it conflicts with his literary ambitions and romantic desires. His internal conflict between spiritual ideals and worldly success provides a counterpoint to other characters' steadfastness.

What are the major emotional turning points?

Key emotional moments include the homeless man's dramatic death in church, Rachel's decision to reject a lucrative singing contract, and the tense town meeting where business leaders oppose the characters' reforms. Each forces characters to choose between comfort and conviction, creating powerful narrative climaxes.

How do relationship dynamics evolve?

Relationships transform as characters' priorities shift—Rachel's romantic connection with Jasper Chase dissolves when their spiritual paths diverge, while new bonds form between characters united by their pledge. The community initially resists then gradually accepts their changes, showing how moral leadership can reshape social dynamics.

Which parts remain ambiguous or open-ended?

The novel leaves ambiguous whether the 'What would Jesus do?' movement will sustain beyond the initial year or spread permanently through society. Jasper Chase's ultimate fate after abandoning the pledge is unresolved, suggesting the ongoing struggle between spiritual commitment and worldly temptation.

What are controversial scenes or decisions?

Some readers find the characters' extreme sacrifices—like Rachel abandoning her career or Norman risking his newspaper's survival—impractical or unrealistic. The book's implicit criticism of capitalism and social inequality through characters like Milton Wright reforming his railroad business also sparked debate about Christianity's relationship to economics.

'In His Steps' ending explained: how it ends & what it means

The novel concludes with the four main characters continuing their pledge beyond the initial year, having transformed their community through their example. The ending suggests that authentic Christianity requires ongoing, daily commitment rather than temporary enthusiasm, and that personal sacrifice can inspire broader social change when grounded in Christ's example.

How does the book address social issues of its time?

Through characters like Milton Wright improving workers' conditions and Edward Norman exposing corruption, the book directly engages with late-19th century issues including labor rights, journalistic ethics, wealth inequality, and urban poverty. It presents Christianity as requiring active engagement with social justice rather than passive piety.

What makes this book historically significant?

As one of the best-selling books of all time and the origin of the 'What Would Jesus Do?' cultural phenomenon, its historical significance lies in popularizing practical Christianity and social gospel theology. It demonstrated how fiction could shape religious discourse and inspired countless readers to connect faith with everyday ethics.

Archivist's Choice

In His Steps

Name: In His Steps
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.18 (23667 reviews)
ISBN: 9781557488152

Charles M. Sheldon (2016)

Genre

Spirituality

Reading Time

120 min

Key Themes

See below

Track Your Reading

When a pastor challenges his congregation to live for a year asking 'What Would Jesus Do?' before every decision, their small town is changed by the radical, often uncomfortable, implications of Christ-like living.

Synopsis

The town of Raymond changes when a penniless, unemployed man confronts the First Church of Raymond during a Sunday service. He asks what it truly means to follow Jesus. He challenges the congregants' comfortable lives before collapsing and dying. Reverend Maxwell, moved by this event, proposes that a group of church members commit to asking "What would Jesus do?" before acting for an entire year. This vow is taken by editor Edward Norman, singer Rachel Winslow, railroad executive Alexander Powers, and businessman Milton Wright. Their commitment leads to changes. Edward Norman changes his newspaper, refusing sensationalism and publishing only truth. Rachel Winslow gives up her secular singing career to use her talent for evangelism and social good. Alexander Powers makes reforms within the railroad company, prioritizing worker safety and fair practices over profit, leading to personal loss. Milton Wright applies Christian ethics to his business, rejecting dishonest practices. The group also starts the "Rectangle" initiative, a social outreach program to help the poor. Their actions, though often met with criticism, ridicule, and financial hardship, inspire change within Raymond and beyond. This shows the power of living out one's faith in practical ways, leaving a legacy of social reform and spiritual awakening.

Reading time

120 min

Difficulty

Easy

Pacing

Moderate

Mood

Inspirational, Reflective, Thought-provoking, Moral

✓ Read this if...

You are interested in the historical roots of Christian social ethics, enjoy parables about practical faith, or are curious about the origins of the 'What Would Jesus Do?' movement.

✗ Skip this if...

You prefer complex narratives, are looking for deep theological debates, or dislike overtly didactic or evangelistic storytelling.

Plot Summary

A Vagrant's Challenge to Raymond's Church

Reverend Henry Maxwell, pastor of the First Church of Raymond, prepares his Sunday sermon when a shabbily dressed, unemployed man appears at his study door. The man, a printer, explains he has been searching for work for months and is starving. Maxwell dismisses him, but the man reappears during the Sunday service, walking to the pulpit. He calmly asks the prosperous congregation what Jesus would do in their situation, noting their comfortable lives while he and others suffer. He then collapses and dies a few days later, affecting Maxwell and a few others. This incident leads Maxwell to propose a new idea to his congregation.

The Vow: What Would Jesus Do?

Reverend Maxwell, moved by the printer's death and his challenge, proposes an extraordinary vow to his congregation: for one year, no member of the church who takes the pledge will do anything without first asking, 'What would Jesus do?' He says this is not a legalistic rule but a sincere attempt to follow Christ's example in every decision. Initially, a few people accept the challenge, including Rachel Winslow, a talented singer; Alexander Powers, the railroad superintendent; Edward Norman, the editor of the Raymond Daily News; and Milton Wright, a wealthy businessman. This small group's commitment starts a series of changes within the community.

Edward Norman's Editorial Revolution

Edward Norman, the editor and owner of the Raymond Daily News, is one of the first to take Maxwell's pledge. His first 'What would Jesus do?' decision involves changing his newspaper. He removes all sensationalist articles, liquor advertisements, and morally questionable content, knowing it will affect circulation and advertising revenue. He begins to publish articles about social justice, community issues, and spiritual uplift, even though it means alienating profitable advertisers and subscribers. His staff is shocked, and many threaten to quit, but Norman remains firm, believing it is the only way to honor his vow.

Rachel Winslow's Artistic Sacrifice

Rachel Winslow, a young woman with a beautiful singing voice and opera aspirations, also takes the pledge. She is offered a lucrative contract to sing in the opera, a dream opportunity. However, after asking 'What would Jesus do?', she realizes that Jesus would use his gifts to serve others and spread a message of hope, not for personal fame or wealth. She rejects the opera offer, to the dismay of her friends and family, and instead begins to sing at local missions and for the poor, using her talent to uplift and inspire those in need. Her decision affects the struggling community of the Rectangle.

Alexander Powers's Railroad Reforms

Alexander Powers, the superintendent of the local railroad, is another figure who takes the vow. His commitment leads him to confront ethical compromises within his industry. He begins to investigate safety hazards, unfair labor practices, and corruption he previously overlooked for efficiency and profit. Asking 'What would Jesus do?' leads him to make difficult decisions, such as firing a dishonest employee, refusing to overlook safety violations, and advocating for better wages and working conditions for his employees, even when it puts him at odds with the railroad company's board of directors and risks his own position.

Milton Wright's Business Ethics

Milton Wright, a successful and wealthy businessman in Raymond, also joins the 'What would Jesus do?' movement. His first challenge involves looking at his extensive investments and business dealings. He finds that some of his investments are in companies with questionable labor practices or that produce harmful products. He faces the difficult decision of selling these profitable but unethical ventures, even if it means a significant personal financial loss. Wright also looks at his own business operations, ensuring fair wages, safe conditions, and ethical conduct, showing that Christian principles can be applied even in business.

The Rectangle and Social Outreach

As more members of the First Church of Raymond take the vow, their actions affect the community, particularly in the impoverished district known as the Rectangle. Led by Reverend Maxwell and the dedicated group, the church's mission changes from internal comfort to external service. Rachel Winslow's singing, Milton Wright's financial support, and other members' direct involvement bring aid, hope, and spiritual guidance to the residents of the Rectangle. This outreach involves opening a mission, providing food and shelter, and engaging with the social problems of poverty, alcoholism, and crime, changing the church's role in the community.

Reverend Maxwell's Broader Influence

Reverend Maxwell's commitment to the 'What would Jesus do?' principle extends beyond his local congregation. He is invited to speak at a national convention and, after prayer, decides to use the platform to challenge the broader Christian community. Instead of a typical theological address, he tells the experiences of his church members in Raymond and asks other Christians to apply the same question to their own lives and societal issues. His speech is controversial but impactful, starting a wider discussion about Christian responsibility in addressing social and economic injustices across the nation.

Consequences and Criticisms

The commitment to 'What would Jesus do?' has challenges. Edward Norman's newspaper faces financial ruin, Alexander Powers faces resistance from his superiors, and Rachel Winslow gives up a career. The First Church of Raymond sees a decline in its wealthy membership as some parishioners find the new emphasis on social justice and personal sacrifice too demanding. However, the church also sees an influx of new members from the Rectangle and other working-class areas, drawn by its compassion and impact. The movement faces criticism and ridicule from those who believe it is impractical or too radical, forcing the adherents to continually examine their motives and faith.

A Year of Transformation and Enduring Legacy

As the year of the vow ends, the town of Raymond is changed. While not every problem is solved, and personal sacrifices have been made, the lives of those who took the pledge have changed, and the community, especially the Rectangle, has seen improvement. The First Church of Raymond is no longer a complacent institution but a force for good, actively engaging with the world's problems. The novel ends by suggesting that the spirit of 'What would Jesus do?' continues to inspire. It shows that applying Christ's example to daily life can lead to personal and societal transformation, leaving a legacy of faith in action.

Principal Figures

Reverend Henry Maxwell

The Protagonist

Transforms from a conventional pastor to a radical spiritual leader, inspiring a movement of practical Christian living.

Rachel Winslow

The Supporting

Gives up personal ambition for a life of service, using her artistic talent to minister to the poor.

Edward Norman

The Supporting

Transforms his newspaper from a profit-driven enterprise to a morally upright publication, facing financial hardship for his convictions.

Alexander Powers

The Supporting

Challenges systemic corruption and prioritizes ethical leadership and employee well-being within the railroad industry.

Milton Wright

The Supporting

Realigns his financial and business practices with Christian ethics, prioritizing moral investments over pure profit.

Jasper Chase

The Supporting

Struggles to reconcile his artistic ambitions with Christian principles, eventually choosing to write for moral uplift.

Felicia Sterling

The Supporting

Moves from social complacency to a life of service and spiritual commitment, taking the vow later in the story.

The Unemployed Printer (Jack)

The Mentioned

Serves as the initial catalyst for the spiritual awakening in Raymond, though his personal arc is brief and tragic.

Rollin Page

The Supporting

Transforms from a dissipated socialite to a dedicated follower of Christ, finding purpose in service.

Themes & Insights

Practical Christianity and Social Justice

The central theme is applying Christian faith to daily life and societal problems. The characters deal with how to live out Christ's teachings in their professions, personal decisions, and community engagement. The novel says that true faith demands action, especially in addressing poverty, inequality, and moral compromise. The church's shift from inward comfort to outward service in the Rectangle shows this theme, demonstrating a commitment to practical acts of love and justice rather than just following doctrine.

“What would Jesus do?”

Sacrifice and Selflessness

Many characters make personal and professional sacrifices to follow the 'What would Jesus do?' vow. Rachel Winslow gives up an opera career, Edward Norman risks his newspaper's financial stability, and Milton Wright sells profitable but unethical investments. These sacrifices show the cost of discipleship and that following Christ often requires giving up personal gain, comfort, or ambition for higher moral and spiritual principles. The novel argues that Christian living involves a willingness to suffer for others and for truth.

“It is not a question of what is popular or what is profitable, but what is right.”

The Influence of Individual Action

The novel shows how the actions of a few individuals can affect an entire community. Reverend Maxwell's challenge, taken up by a small group, creates a ripple effect that changes a church, a newspaper, a railroad, and a poor district. This theme shows the power of personal integrity and that moral courage in individuals can inspire collective change. It shows that even small decisions, when guided by a strong moral compass, can lead to widespread societal improvement.

“The kingdom of God is not coming by and by; it is here, and now, to be worked for and lived for.”

Integrity in Profession and Business

A part of the story explores how the 'What would Jesus do?' question applies to various professions: journalism (Edward Norman), railroad management (Alexander Powers), finance (Milton Wright), and art (Rachel Winslow, Jasper Chase). The characters deal with ethical dilemmas in their fields, such as prioritizing profit over truth, efficiency over safety, or ambition over moral content. The novel argues for Christian integrity in all aspects of life, challenging the separation of faith from professional conduct and advocating for business and career choices guided by ethical and spiritual principles.

“Is it possible for a railroad man to be a Christian?”

Plot Devices & Literary Techniques

The Vow/Pledge

The central commitment to act only after asking 'What would Jesus do?'

The 'What would Jesus do?' vow is the primary plot device that drives the entire narrative. It serves as a moral compass and a decision-making framework for the characters. By committing to this pledge, characters are forced to confront their existing values, habits, and societal norms. It creates internal conflict for individuals and external conflict within the community, as their Christ-like actions often go against conventional wisdom or established practices. The vow is not merely a statement but a directive for radical transformation, allowing the author to explore the practical implications of Christian discipleship in various social and professional contexts.

The Unemployed Printer

A catalyst character whose brief appearance sparks the entire movement.

The unnamed unemployed printer functions as a pivotal catalyst character. His dramatic appearance, direct challenge to the congregation's hypocrisy, and subsequent death are the inciting incident for Reverend Maxwell's spiritual awakening and the initiation of the 'What would Jesus do?' vow. Though his role is brief, his suffering and question resonate throughout the novel, serving as a constant reminder of the social injustices the church is called to address. He embodies the marginalized and forgotten, forcing the comfortable congregation to confront their responsibilities.

The Rectangle

A symbolic setting representing urban poverty and the target of the church's outreach.

The Rectangle is a specific, impoverished district within Raymond, characterized by poverty, alcoholism, and crime. It serves as a symbolic setting representing the neglected, suffering segment of society that the affluent First Church initially ignores. As the characters take the 'What would Jesus do?' vow, the Rectangle becomes the primary focus of their outreach and service. It provides a tangible arena for the practical application of Christian principles, allowing the characters to directly confront social problems and demonstrate the transformative power of their faith through concrete actions like establishing missions, providing aid, and offering spiritual guidance.

Character Archetypes Representing Professions

Each major character embodies a different societal role or profession, allowing for broad thematic exploration.

Sheldon deliberately introduces characters who represent distinct professions and social roles: a pastor (Maxwell), a singer (Rachel Winslow), a newspaper editor (Edward Norman), a railroad superintendent (Alexander Powers), and a wealthy businessman (Milton Wright). This allows the novel to explore the 'What would Jesus do?' question across various sectors of society. Each character's struggle to apply the vow within their specific context highlights the universal applicability of Christian ethics and the diverse challenges faced in different walks of life, making the moral lessons broadly relatable and impactful.

Critical analysis

Notable Quotes

“What would Jesus do?”

— The central question posed by Reverend Henry Maxwell to his congregation, challenging them to base their decisions on this principle.

“The world is full of suffering and sin, and it is the duty of every Christian to do what he can to lessen it.”

— Spoken by a character reflecting on social responsibility and Christian duty.

“I am not my own; I am bought with a price.”

— A reminder of Christian belief in redemption and belonging to God, influencing characters' actions.

“It is not enough to be good; we must be good for something.”

— Emphasizing active faith over passive morality in addressing societal issues.

“The church is not a place to simply hear sermons, but a force to be used for the regeneration of the world.”

— Critique of passive church attendance and call for transformative action.

“We are here to represent the Master in every act of our lives.”

— Encouragement to live consistently as followers of Jesus in daily conduct.

“Money is a trust from God, and we are accountable for how we use it.”

— Discussion on wealth and stewardship, prompting characters to reconsider their finances.

“The greatest need of the world is not more churches, but more Christians living like Christ.”

— Comment on the gap between institutional religion and personal discipleship.

“If we are not willing to suffer for Christ, we are not worthy of Him.”

— Reflection on the cost of following Jesus, including personal sacrifice.

“Our business success should not come at the expense of our neighbors' welfare.”

— Ethical consideration in commerce, inspired by the 'What would Jesus do?' question.

“Prayer is not just asking for things; it is aligning our will with God's.”

— Insight into spiritual practice as a means of submission and guidance.

“The test of our religion is how we treat the poor and the outcast.”

— Challenge to measure faith by actions toward marginalized people.

“We must be willing to lose our lives in order to save them.”

— Paraphrase of biblical teaching on self-denial for spiritual gain.

“Every talent we have is a gift from God to be used for His glory.”

— Encouragement to use personal abilities in service to others and God.

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Key Questions (FAQ)

The novel follows four prominent citizens of the fictional town of Raymond—Rev. Henry Maxwell, newspaper editor Edward Norman, wealthy heiress Rachel Winslow, and railroad superintendent Milton Wright—who pledge for one year to ask 'What would Jesus do?' before every decision. Their commitment leads them to make radical changes in their personal and professional lives, challenging social norms and sparking a spiritual revival in their community.

About the author

Charles M. Sheldon

Charles M. Sheldon was a prominent American author best known for his 1896 novel "In His Steps." This influential work, which popularized the phrase "What would Jesus do?" (WWJD), sold millions of copies and had a significant impact on Christian culture and social reform movements. Sheldon's fiction often explored themes of faith, social justice, and the practical application of Christian principles in everyday life.

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Synopsis

Plot Summary

A Vagrant's Challenge to Raymond's Church

The Vow: What Would Jesus Do?

Edward Norman's Editorial Revolution

Rachel Winslow's Artistic Sacrifice

Alexander Powers's Railroad Reforms

Milton Wright's Business Ethics

The Rectangle and Social Outreach

Reverend Maxwell's Broader Influence

Consequences and Criticisms

A Year of Transformation and Enduring Legacy

Principal Figures

Reverend Henry Maxwell

Rachel Winslow

Edward Norman

Alexander Powers

Milton Wright

Jasper Chase

Felicia Sterling

The Unemployed Printer (Jack)

Rollin Page

Themes & Insights

Practical Christianity and Social Justice

Sacrifice and Selflessness

The Influence of Individual Action

Integrity in Profession and Business

Plot Devices & Literary Techniques

The Vow/Pledge

The Unemployed Printer

The Rectangle

Character Archetypes Representing Professions

Critical analysis

In-depth analysis

Strengths

Areas for improvement

Notable Quotes

Quiz

Test Your Knowledge

Key Questions (FAQ)

What is 'In His Steps' about?

Why should I read 'In His Steps'?

What is the background/setting of 'In His Steps'?

What are the most memorable quotes?

What writing style does the author use?

What minor details add significant meaning?

What are some subtle foreshadowing moments?

What unexpected character connections exist?

What are unspoken character motivations?

What psychological complexities do characters exhibit?

What are the major emotional turning points?

How do relationship dynamics evolve?

Which parts remain ambiguous or open-ended?

What are controversial scenes or decisions?

'In His Steps' ending explained: how it ends & what it means

How does the book address social issues of its time?

What makes this book historically significant?

About the author

Charles M. Sheldon

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