Inspirational Quotes by Charles Sheldon (American Minister, Author)

Charles Monroe Sheldon (1857–1946) was an American pastor and author best known for his influential work in Christian literature and his advocacy for social justice. He gained lasting recognition for promoting a life aligned with the teachings of Christ through acts of kindness and service to others.

Born in Wellsville, New York, Sheldon graduated from Brown University in 1883 and pastored churches in Vermont (1886–88) and Kansas (1889–1946.) A proponent of Christian Socialism, he emphasized practical morality over traditional doctrines of personal redemption. In 1896, he introduced a sermon series centered on the question “What would Jesus do?”, drawing inspiration from William T. Stead’s If Christ Came to Chicago! (1893.) This theme later evolved into his novel In His Steps, which reflected his socialist ideals and the Social Gospel movement.

Sheldon championed equality and prohibition, advocating for racial integration, fair treatment of Jews and Catholics, and gender equality. He encouraged women’s political participation and workplace rights. A committed vegetarian, he extended his compassion to animals, openly criticizing circuses for their mistreatment.

Sheldon’s most notable work, In His Steps: What Would Jesus Do? (1896,) became a bestseller and had a significant impact on the religious and social landscape of the time. The book tells the story of a congregation that, inspired by the question “What would Jesus do?,” seeks to transform their lives and actions in ways that reflect Christian values. The novel popularized the phrase “What Would Jesus Do?” (WWJD,) which has since become an enduring slogan in Christian culture and ethical discussions. Other notable works include Robert Hardy’s Seven Days (1892,) a novel exploring faith and personal transformation, and The Crucifixion of Philip Strong (1894,) which critiques social and religious hypocrisy.

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