Brief Answer

Yes, seeking to live by “What Would Jesus Do?” (WWJD) can be a helpful guide for Christians, as long as it is grounded in Scripture and the leading of the Holy Spirit. By imitating Jesus’ character and actions, believers reflect His love, grace, and truth in their daily lives.

Understanding WWJD from a Biblical Perspective

The phrase “What Would Jesus Do?” challenges Christians to align their lives with the example of Christ. Scripture calls believers to imitate Jesus: “Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did” (1 John 2:6). Jesus Himself instructed His disciples to follow Him (Luke 9:23), demonstrating a life of love, humility, and obedience to God.

However, understanding what Jesus would do requires knowledge of His teachings and actions as revealed in the Bible. Jesus prioritized:

• Love for God and Others: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart…and love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:37-39).
• Obedience to the Father: “My food…is to do the will of him who sent me” (John 4:34).
• Servant Leadership: Washing His disciples’ feet, Jesus taught humility and service (John 13:14-15).
• Compassion and Truth: Jesus showed mercy to sinners but also called them to repentance (John 8:11).

Historical Context

The phrase WWJD gained popularity in the 1990s as part of a movement to encourage Christians to reflect on Jesus’ example in their decision-making. However, the concept originated from the 1896 novel In His Steps by Charles Sheldon, where characters transformed their lives by asking, “What would Jesus do?”

In biblical times, following Jesus meant literal discipleship—walking with Him, learning from Him, and emulating His behavior. After Jesus’ ascension, the early church continued to imitate Him by living out His teachings. For example:

• The believers in Antioch were called Christians—”little Christs”—because their actions reflected Jesus (Acts 11:26).
• Paul encouraged the Corinthians to “follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1).

Practical Implications

Living by WWJD can shape everyday decisions and interactions, helping believers reflect Christ’s character in the following ways:

• In Relationships: WWJD reminds us to forgive, serve, and love unconditionally, just as Jesus did (Ephesians 4:32).
• In Difficult Decisions: WWJD challenges us to choose integrity, humility, and selflessness, even when it’s costly (Matthew 5:38-42).
• In Sharing the Gospel: Jesus showed compassion and spoke truth, setting an example for evangelism (Matthew 9:36).

Practical steps to live out WWJD include:

• Studying the Gospels: Knowing what Jesus said and did is essential for understanding His example.
• Praying for Guidance: The Holy Spirit helps us discern how to act in specific situations (James 1:5).
• Seeking Accountability: Fellow believers can encourage and challenge us to live like Christ (Hebrews 10:24).

Theological Depth and Insight

WWJD reflects the biblical call to sanctification—becoming more like Christ. Romans 8:29 says God’s purpose is for believers to be “conformed to the image of his Son.” This transformation involves both outward actions and inward character.

However, it’s crucial to remember that we cannot imitate Jesus perfectly on our own. It is only through the power of the Holy Spirit and the grace of God that we can grow in Christlikeness. Living by WWJD is not about legalism but about a heart transformed by love for Jesus.

Broader Biblical Themes

WWJD connects to key biblical themes:

• Discipleship: Following Jesus means not only learning from Him but also embodying His example in everyday life.
• Grace and Transformation: God’s grace enables believers to live out Christ’s example, not in their own strength but through His power.
• Kingdom Living: Acting as Jesus would reflects the values of God’s kingdom—mercy, justice, humility, and love.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is essential for understanding and applying WWJD. Jesus promised His followers the Spirit to guide them into all truth (John 16:13). The Spirit helps believers:

• Remember Jesus’ teachings (John 14:26).
• Resist temptation and choose righteousness (Galatians 5:16-17).
• Develop Christlike qualities such as love, patience, and kindness (Galatians 5:22-23).

Relying on the Spirit ensures that our attempts to follow Jesus are rooted in His power, not our own efforts.

Relevance for Today’s Christian

In a world filled with conflicting values, WWJD serves as a compass, guiding Christians to reflect Jesus in their actions and decisions. It’s particularly relevant in situations that require moral clarity or selfless love. For example:

• At Work: Choosing honesty and excellence, even when it’s inconvenient.
• In Family Life: Practicing patience, forgiveness, and sacrificial love.
• In Social Issues: Responding with compassion and truth to cultural challenges.

WWJD also encourages believers to be mindful of their witness, showing others the love and grace of Christ through their lives (Matthew 5:16).

Connection to Jesus Christ and God’s Love

Jesus is the ultimate expression of God’s love (John 3:16). By asking WWJD, believers align themselves with His example, reflecting God’s love to the world. Jesus demonstrated unconditional love by dying for our sins, and His resurrection empowers us to live as new creations (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Living by WWJD is not about earning God’s favor but responding to His love with gratitude and obedience. It’s an invitation to walk closely with Jesus and to shine His light in a dark world.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How can asking “What would Jesus do?” shape your decisions in daily life?
2. What steps can you take to better understand and follow Jesus’ example?
3. How does the Holy Spirit help you live out Christlike qualities in challenging situations?
4. In what ways does living by WWJD impact your witness to others?
5. How can the example of Jesus deepen your love for God and others?

As you reflect on these questions, remember that living by WWJD is not about perfection but about growing closer to Christ and reflecting His love in every area of life.