Psychopastor

by Charles Sheldon

Written in 1896 by a Congregationalist minister, In His Steps is still a poignant and convicting read. A century before “WWJD” became a popular marketing slogan, Sheldon was asking his congregation, and us his readers, to consider every decision in light of the question, “What would Jesus do?” This novel walks us through the lives, decisions, and consequences of several inter-related individuals who accepted the challenge to ask what Jesus would do before making any decision, and then to follow through on the answer to the question without regard to consequences or personal suffering that may result.

I found this book both simple and elegant. I became totally absorbed in the story and the emotions of the characters; not because I related to their circumstances, rather I found every life depicted translated into my own. I experienced deep conviction, shame, sadness and pride. A renewal of my commitment to love without qualifier and to pursue God’s purpose for my life was fostered. My experience may have more to do with the work God is doing in my life, than with the book itself, but I do recommend In His Steps as a worthwhile read.

Charles Sheldon is said to be the primary influence that started the social gospel. I am not convinced that Sheldon would have endorsed all that the social gospel ended up becoming, but he undoubtedly applauded the movement’s emphasis on loving your neighbor and addressing the social needs rather than merely giving a tract, a sermon, or a prayer from a distance. Sheldon was an extraordinary man who did much to help the needy and marginalized and to confront social injustice.

An interesting side note: Sheldon wrote In His Steps to read a chapter per week to his congregation on Sunday evenings as a sermon story. He started using stories on Sunday evenings as a means of boosting attendance. In His Steps was so popular that a Christian-oriented magazine bought the rights a month after Sheldon started reading to his congregation and published the chapters weekly for readers. It was reprinted, published, and translated so often that copyright issues became confused and the book landed in the public domain. The book, which may only be surpassed in circulation by the Bible, yielded virtually no royalties for the author. The little bit of money he did receive he gave to the poor. If you number yourself among those needy to whom Sheldon dedicated so much of his life, you will be pleased to know that you can get In His Steps for free on the internet at http://www.raptureready.com/resource/sheldon/sheldon.html

by G.K. Chesterton

G.K. Chesterton wrote this book as a companion to an earlier book he wrote called “Heretics” in which he criticizes heresies. This book was intended to give his perspective on theology rather than criticize others. It is primarily Chesterton’s personal story told in a logical, humorous, and brilliant way. Written over a hundred years ago, it is remarkably contemporary. He could enter a think tank of moderns and post-moderns and readily put the key issues into rational perspective that would leave both sides with slack jaws and dumb looks.

Chesterton is well known for his razor wit and humorous turn of phrase, and in this respect he does not disappoint. This book would be well worth reading for his creative writing, and the wealth of wonderful quotes you can glean. However, the real treasure of this book is his brilliant exposition of everything from lunacy to aristocracy. He disarms his readers with ideas that seem foolish and ludicrous at first blush. Then he develops them with such solid and consistent thinking you are left wondering why you never thought of things that way before.

Orthodoxy is a must read. This is only the second book I have read by G. K. Chesterton, but I am certain it will not be my last. He has captured my mind and imagination so thoroughly that he may challenge C.S. Lewis as my most recommended author. Maybe I just like men who have initials for first names.