Essay Questions

Who is the main character in the novel In His Steps by Charles M. Sheldon and what is his significance?

Reverend Henry is the main character in the novel. The whole idea of the novel is to answer the question of what would be the actions of the Son of God towards the sufferings of the various characters. Reverend Henry plays a critical role in the novel which bases its arguments on biblical teachings. He is a spiritual leader in Raymond town. He is married to Mary a woman who most people see as a trump. Most people in the town have not understood how the Reverend is managing to live with his wife and family. The significance of Reverend Henry is attributable to his ability to build or gash the town. Therefore, people living in the town are asking what would the Son of God (Jesus) do to save the town in case the reverend decided to tear it.

How does Charles M. Sheldon stress the importance of communal love in his novel?

Charles M. Sheldon focuses more on the history of Christianity and how people ensure that they are doing the right thing at all times to please their creator. The author stresses the significance of the community to live in harmony and love one another. By loving each other, there is not likely to be any kind of mistreating people based on their religion, race, country of origin or gender. Therefore, the principle rule of Christianity is loving one another as you love yourself. Each individual is allowed to offer his contrary opinion as long as it does not harm any person. For instance, the author uses the character by the name Jack Manning who has contradictory opinions but he is still considered as a member of the community without any form of intimidation.

Explain how the theme of racial bigotry and dread manifests itself in the novel In His Steps?

The novel largely talks about love but it reminds the characters that fear can result in racial bigotry. For instance, when foreigners come into the community, the local people might fear that the incoming visitors are going to interfere with their culture. Therefore, the author thinks that fear is likely to influence people to start hating foreigners and even chasing them away. However, the author is precise that racial bigotry and dread are against Christian teachings. According to Christian teachings, people should love one another regardless of race.