Charles M Sheldon and Christian Socialism in the Late 19th Century

Given the temptations of modern society, what would Jesus do in my place? Charles M Sheldon became an advocate of the school of thought known as Christian socialism in the late 19th century. His theological view focused on the practical aspects of moral living, with much less emphasis on doctrinal traditions of personal redemption from sin in Christ. In the winter of 1896, Sheldon developed a history in his sermons presented as a weekly series in the Central Congregational Church in Topeka, Kansas. The central theme of these sermons was based on the question everyone asks: “What would Jesus do?” when a person is faced with moral decisions. He saw this fundamental question in the Christian faith. This series will later be compiled into the novel titled in English: In His Steps. The central thrust of the novel has not been about personal redemption, but about moral decisions related to encountering the circumstances of poverty and deprivation.

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At first glance, you might think that the context of the late 19th century was different from today, but the way he looked at the world and how he applied his Christian faith still resonates to this day. Sheldon was in touch with the concerns of the American middle class of his time.

Walter Rauschenbusch, widely considered the chief architect of the social gospel, recognized Sheldon's work focused on imitating Jesus. He saw the importance in bringing the reader to the realization that it is difficult to live a life like Christ, given the temptations of modern society. The two social issues that Sheldon argued passionately during his life were equality and prohibition. He advocated that all people are equal and should be treated as such. He was a pioneer among Protestant ministers in welcoming black people into a traditional church. He also fought to ensure fair treatment for Jews and Catholics, and proclaimed equality between men and women. A strong supporter of the feminist struggle for equal rights, urged women to enter politics. He also pushed for full equality in the workplace.