In His Steps summary

A Call to Christian Discipleship

In the book In His Steps by Charles M. Sheldon, we are introduced to a Reverend Henry Maxwell, a pastor in the fictional town of Raymond, who faces an unexpected challenge during a regular church service. A homeless man interrupts the congregation by questioning their practice of Christianity, highlighting the disparity between their fulfilled lives and his life of despair. Haunted by the man's death soon after, Maxwell encourages his wealthy congregation to start leading a Christian life of true discipleship.

Accepting this challenge, they pledge to ask themselves "What would Jesus do?" before making any decisions, a question that becomes a guide in their journey of living according to Jesus's teachings. This journey isn’t easy, as they find their comfortable lifestyles and commonly accepted societal norms at odds with the life of self-sacrifice and benevelence that Jesus lived.

A Test of Faith

The book further delves into their struggles and the profound changes in their lives. A successful newspaper owner, Edward Norman, starts publishing only the truth, regardless of losing readership and revenue. Rachel Winslow decides to use her musical talent in the local church instead of the grand opera stage. Virginia, a wealthy heiress, chooses to use her inheritance for the rehabilitation of the city's Rectangle district. Each character, in their unique way, gives up something valuable to live a more Christ-like life.

Alongside these personal transformation stories, Sheldon introduces a variety of social issues like alcoholism, unemployment, worker exploitation and town politics, emphasizing the need for Christians to take meaningful action. The effect of this new way of life extends beyond personal transformations and impacts the entire community, encouraging more people to walk 'in His steps.'

Christianity Beyond Rites and Rituals

As the narrative progresses, the characters' commitment to their pledge faces more complex challenges, and their faith is put to test. Sheldon demonstrates through his characters that achieving Christian ideals isn't a matter of following church practices but calls for a higher commitment and deeper understanding of humanity. The second part of the book explores the spread of this Christian movement in other cities like Chicago, with Sheldon highlighting how society could transform if everyone lived the way Jesus did.

For instance, a business tycoon, Milton Wright, adopts a more compassionate approach, providing welfare for his employees. Playwright Loreen decides to write a play depicting Christ's philosophy in the modern world, despite the risk of it being rejected by conventional theatres. These unfolding events reinforce Sheldon's premise that following Christ's teachings sincerely could lead to a more equitable and compassionate world.

A Christian Utopia

In the concluding chapters, Sheldon shows a transformed Raymond city, where previously struggling communities are now prosperous and ethical practices have replaced dishonesty in business and politics. This vision represents a Christian Utopia, underscoring Sheldon’s belief in the power of true Christian living in fostering social justice and equality.

In conclusion, In His Steps challenges Christians to truly live the teachings of Christ in their daily life. By questioning "What would Jesus do?", it offers readers a fresh perspective on discipleship and the transformative power of benevolence, moving beyond Sunday preaching to living the faith every day, thus impacting societal change. The book remains a seminal work in Christian literature, inspiring the modern-day Christian discipleship movement.