Rev. Henry Maxwell, speaking slowly and determinedly, yet not fully realizing the implications of what lay ahead of him, repeated his astounding proposition, "I want volunteers from First Church who will pledge themselves, earnestly and honestly, for an entire year; not to do anything without first asking the question, 'What would Jesus do?'"Maxwell never dreamed that among those who responded would be the most influential members of his congregation, the wealthy heiress with her millions at stake, the newspaper editor with his job on the line, the president of the local college, the town beauty. But together they pledged themselves to a new step of faith that would change, not just a handful of people, but an entire town-for good.This timeless classic by Charles Sheldon has blessed millions of people around the world who have asked the vital question, "What does it really mean to be a Christian?"

One of the best-selling books of all time and an inspirational classic, this 1896 phenomenon popularized the question "What would Jesus do?" American minister CHARLES MONROE SHELDON (1857-1946) was renowned as a preacher more concerned with practical perspectives on living a moral life than on other rarefied theological matters removed from the experiences of ordinary Christians. It was in this novel that many of his own sermons came together in fictional form, through one Reverend Henry Maxwell, of the imaginary Eastern town of Raymond, who inspires his congregation to let the question "What would Jesus do?" guide their actions. Those seeking a virtuous path through everyday life continue to turn to this beloved book even today, more than a century after it was written. It remains a comfort to the soul for readers the world over.

Deeply shaken by the apprearance of a mysterious stranger in town and his impassioned pleas for the poor and downtrodden, the minister and five influential parishoners begin a year-long experience in Christianity. Each has resolved to conduct his life according to the precepts of Christ, applying His behavior to their own lives.