What Would Jesus Do?

“What would Jesus do?” appears to be a very good question to ask. Charles Sheldon (In His Steps, 1896) asked this question of his congregation to get them thinking about the social responsibility they possess as followers of Jesus. He hoped to stir them toward social action, not just church attendance. That was a good idea.

In the 1990’s “What would Jesus do?” grew in popularity again and although it has tapered off somewhat, it is still widely used today. The call to social action seems to be the impetus behind the renewed interest. As in Sheldon’s day, we still struggle with the same pew-warming mentality. We are largely preoccupied with maintaining our comfort and typically give little attention to fighting poverty or other social injustices.

In theory, asking ourselves “What would Jesus do?” gives us a more global perspective of the needs around us. It’s true. Jesus thought globally. He acted vastly different than we do. He never acted selfishly or materialistically. He cared deeply for those in pain. He spoke against the religious elite and concerned Himself with the welfare of the sick and needy. If we are to follow Jesus, it seems that we should follow in His footsteps and do as He did. Because of this conviction, the Social Gospel is alive and well today.

Most religions expect their believers to follow certain behavioral standards—the do’s and don’ts of spiritual conviction. It seems logical then that as Christians we would practice the same acts as Jesus. Isn’t that what Christianity is all about? Aren’t we to live a life that reflects what He would do? In fact, we fall headfirst into a life of hypocrisy when we preach one thing and do another.

If following the example of Jesus Christ is the essence of Christianity, then I guess looking down at a silicone wristband might prove helpful in triggering behavioral responses that are consistent with His teachings. “What would Jesus do?” is an excellent question to ask if our approach to Christianity is based upon our human effort to pattern our life after our spiritual leader, Jesus.

“What would Jesus do?” is a question that is based entirely upon human logical. However, the logic could not be further from the truth of the Gospel. Jesus doesn’t call us to social action. He calls us to abide in Him. He’s not looking for “Jesus-look-a-likes” that will imitate His actions. Jesus Christ is not an example we follow; He is the Life within us that empowers us to live in ways that glorifies God. That is the Gospel.

The Apostle Paul understood this truth of “Christ in you” when He wrote, “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and delivered Himself up for me” Galatians 2:20.

If Jesus Christ is your Lord and Savior, He lives in you! In living color He touches the lives of every single person you come in contact with, because He is in you, living as you! So the question “What would Jesus do?” is mere pretending compared to the reality of Jesus’ presence in your life. And when we pretend, we tire. When we pretend, we grow cynical and judgmental. Even with our best intentions of living the Christian life, we fall short. It is good news to know that He does not expect us to live His life!

Jesus, in you, may well feed the hungry today. Jesus may speak on behalf of those who are victims of abuse, through you. Jesus may lead an effort to reach out to the poor, through you. Jesus may organize your church to go to Mexico, China, or Africa…

The real question is, “Will I let Jesus live and lead in me today?” The Answer, “Christ in you, the hope of glory” Colossians 1:27. The Answer, “For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus” Philippians 1:6. The Answer, “Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass” 1 Thessalonians 5:24.

The audio recording, “What Would Jesus Do?” is listed under LISTEN TO–on the right side of this page → (the recording is different than the text). I pray that your thoughts are stirred and your heart is moved to trust Him more deeply!

In Him,
Deb