In His Steps (eBook)

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.