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In His Steps  By  cover art

In His Steps

By: Charles M. Sheldon
Narrated by: Nelson Runger
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Editorial reviews

Charles Sheldon's classic of popular religious literature exploded the centuries-old question "What Would Jesus Do?" into the American vernacular. A best seller in its day, In His Steps follows the denizens of a small town as they allow their pastor's admonition to imitate their savior in all their actions for a single year to slowly transform their lives. Folksy, optimistic, and quintessentially American, this inspirational tale, first published in 1896, is not only a classic novel of small-town Christianity, but a memorable portrait of America at the hopeful, prewar turn of the century. Accomplished audiobook narrator Nelson Runger brings a quaint, unmannered sunniness to this historic novel.

Publisher's summary

Over 100 years ago, Reverend Charles Sheldon stepped up to the pulpit to deliver a sermon to his little flock of Congregationalists. Little did he know that his humble parable would evolve into a novel that would be published in 45 languages and affect the lives of at least 15 million people. A desperate, unemployed printer, looking for help in the mythical town of Raymond, is ignored until he’s on the verge of dying. His last words, as he collapses in front of a church congregation, point out the difference between believing in Christianity and actually living it. The death of the homeless man becomes the catalyst for a year-long pact. What happens when an entire congregation decides to stop before every decision and ask itself, “What would Jesus do?” In His Steps is a book about life. Few books, other than the Bible, have been so widely circulated. Since its first publication, this inspirational classic has never been out of print. Its simple message transcends literature, theology, and religion.

Public Domain (P)1997 Recorded Books, LLC

What listeners say about In His Steps

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A tremendous tale!

The narrator was perfectly suited to the story, and conducted a wonderful performance. I was struck by how relevant this story still is, and how engrossed I got with it. You might think that the story would be dated, but the Christian experience transcends time, and the topics of suffering and faithfulness can easily be transferred to our lives today.

I loved listening to the inspiration of the WWJD movement of my childhood, but it was more than that. The characters and lessons presented in this story truly helped me to put my Christian walk into perspective, and have spurred me into more conscious effort and ministry. I highly recommend this great little tale.

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    3 out of 5 stars
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That's not the issue...

The true issue is not "What Would Jesus Do?" but "What Think Ye of Christ?"
I loved this book when I was in high school 25 years ago, but after reading it again this week, I can honestly say it's not on my list of books to re-read ever again. I felt the premise of the book was based on works, not on who Christ is and what He did. I don't think the book focused enough on Christ's life and example as shown to us in the Gospels. The characters would have thought and acted differently if they had actually followed Christ's example. As I said, the more important question is "What Think Ye of Christ?" That's just my opinion.

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  • K
  • 04-04-17

WWJD - great read.

i loved this book. great stories about the life transforming motto that should guide our very lives. everyone should read it. great narrator. I'm sad that it was over.

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Great message, beaten to death

I have strong feelings for the beginning of this book, where they've decided to devote their every move, all their decisions to the question of highest moral virtue. Great points all around with the thoughts following on how to do it. I enjoyed it so much that I got the hardcover version, but then I kept reading and the author beat the point to death, involving personal doctrine and theology, some of which is exclusive to only a few small denominations of christianity and has no biblical proof or backing. Secondarily (though I can say it ultimately made me stop reading) the stories were bloated with unrealistic reactions and the fad of widespread, high-emotion, overly dramatic conversion. Where some poor soul or many at a time will simply hear the word 'faith' or 'Jesus' and suddenly fall to the ground weeping over how much they need God.

To me, message understood and if people took on the behavior of Jesus as depicted in the Bible the world would be a great place. But it isn't a story the author can claim to write to its conclusion and it isn't a book. This topic - powerful as it may be - is simple and can be taught in a sermon or a conversation. In other words the message is about the personal journey, which is what matters. Everything else is fluff.

To summarize,

Great message
Good ideas on implementation

Unrealistic behavior
Lots of church dogma and much "hurumph"
Way too long for the point it makes

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all time favorite book

it isgreatly loved book by my whole famile, and one we could all apply more to our lives.

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In His Steps

Excellent story and narration. Many questions were asked and many not answered; some because there are no simple answers. Many are
up for debate. Still, this book, after more than 100 years, is worth reading or listening to.

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An excellent and inspiring story for all ages!

Nelson Runger brings Charles Sheldon's story to life in this moving performance! I look forward to listening to it again in the future.

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After 100 years still valuable

A wonderful piece. I included a chapter a day as part of my bible study and worship.

This will give you pause in your discipleship and help you consider “What would Jesus do?”

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In his steps

This is so good you will hang on to very word and you will be so blessed.

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ANOTHER LIFE CHANGER

This book radically changed my life as a young woman. It gave me direction and purpose. I enjoy the audible version and I listen often at night. Highly recommend this Christian classic to everyone. It is not preachy at all. You will enjoy it.

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