Bible Daily

Exploring the Impact of 'What Would Jesus Do?' on Christian Living

The phrase "What Would Jesus Do?" (WWJD) has transcended time, becoming a beacon for Christian conduct and decision-making. Initially popularized in the late 19th century, its roots stretch back to the core teachings of Christianity, specifically the "Imitatio Christi," or the "Imitation of Christ."

Historical Roots of WWJD

The concept of imitating Christ can be traced back to the writings of Thomas à Kempis in the 15th century, whose book Imitation of Christ emphasized living as Jesus did. This theme was later expanded upon by figures like John Wesley, who integrated social welfare into the imitation of Christ's life. However, it was Charles Sheldon, a minister in Topeka, Kansas, who brought this question to the forefront of Christian consciousness.

In the late 19th century, Sheldon, frustrated by dwindling Sunday night service attendance, began delivering "sermon stories" that posed moral dilemmas, ending each with the question, "What would Jesus do?" This innovative approach not only boosted attendance but also inspired his book In His Steps, published in 1896, which became a bestseller and was translated into numerous languages.

WWJD in Today's World

The revival of WWJD in modern times can be credited to Janie Tinklenberg, a Michigan youth leader, who in the 1990s, transformed the phrase into a tangible reminder through bracelets. This simple yet profound acronym spread rapidly, appearing on various merchandise and even finding its way into popular culture, including films like "WWJD" and its sequels.

Understanding WWJD

At its core, WWJD asks:

  • What did Jesus do in similar situations?
  • How would Jesus respond in my current circumstances?
  • How can I emulate His actions and attitudes?

This question serves as a prompt for Christians to pause, reflect, and pray before making decisions, striving to align their actions with the teachings and example of Jesus Christ.

Biblical Foundations

The New Testament is rich with exhortations to follow Jesus' example:

  • Ephesians 5:1-2 encourages believers to "walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us."
  • Philippians 2:3-5 calls for humility and the mindset of Christ in our interactions.
  • Romans 13:14 advises to "clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ."

These scriptures, among others, underscore the call to live out the life of Christ in our daily decisions and interactions.

Practical Application

To truly embody WWJD, one must delve into the Gospels to understand Jesus' life, teachings, and reactions. Here are a few examples:

  • The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) teaches us to show compassion and love to all, regardless of social boundaries.
  • The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30, Luke 19:12-27) encourages the wise use of our God-given abilities for His glory.
  • The Rich Fool (Luke 12:13-21) warns against selfishness and the importance of sharing our blessings.

Moreover, understanding what Jesus would not do, like tolerating sin or hypocrisy, provides a clear boundary for Christian behavior, aiming always to honor God.

Conclusion

The phrase "What Would Jesus Do?" is more than a slogan; it's a call to a deeper, more reflective Christian life. By revisiting its origins and embracing its implications, believers today can find renewed purpose in striving to live as Jesus did, ensuring that this timeless question continues to inspire and guide generations to come.