What Would Jesus Do? (WWJD): A Comprehensive Guide to Ethical Decision Making

Introduction

In a world filled with complex moral dilemmas and ethical questions, many people turn to their faith for guidance. One of the most enduring and influential questions in Christian ethics is « What Would Jesus Do? » (WWJD). This simple yet profound question has inspired countless individuals to reflect on their actions and strive to live a life aligned with the teachings of Jesus Christ.

The phrase « What Would Jesus Do? » has transcended its religious origins to become a cultural phenomenon. According to a survey conducted by the Barna Group, over 70% of Americans are familiar with the WWJD phrase, and a significant percentage have worn or owned WWJD merchandise at some point in their lives. This widespread recognition speaks to the universal appeal of the question and its relevance in guiding ethical decision-making.

According to a study conducted by the Pew Research Center in 2020, approximately 65% of American adults have heard of the phrase « What Would Jesus Do? » and around 30% have owned a WWJD bracelet at some point in their lives. This statistic demonstrates how deeply the expression has permeated popular culture and become a recognizable symbol far beyond religious circles.

In this comprehensive article, we will explore the origins, significance, and practical applications of the WWJD principle. We will delve into its historical context, examine its impact on culture and society, and provide practical tips on how to apply this question in your daily life. Whether you are a devout Christian seeking to deepen your faith or simply someone interested in ethical decision-making, this article will offer valuable insights and guidance.

The idea of asking what Jesus would do in a given situation is not new. Throughout the centuries of Christian tradition, believers have been encouraged to imitate Christ. For example, St. Augustine, in the fourth century, wrote extensively about the importance of imitating Jesus’ life as a model of virtue and holiness. However, it was in the late 19th century that this idea was formalized into a direct and accessible question.

In our increasingly complex and morally ambiguous world, the question « What Would Jesus Do? » offers a simple yet powerful moral compass. Whether facing personal decisions, professional challenges, or social dilemmas, this question can serve as a guide to navigate the ethical complexities of modern life. It encourages deeper reflection on the consequences of our actions and reminds us of the importance of living according to our values and beliefs.

Origins and History of WWJD

The Birth of a Powerful Question

The phrase « What Would Jesus Do? » traces its roots back to the late 19th century. It was popularized by Charles Sheldon, a Congregationalist minister, in his 1896 novel « In His Steps: What Would Jesus Do? » The novel tells the story of a small town’s residents who pledge to ask themselves this question before making any major decision.

Charles Monroe Sheldon was born on February 26, 1857, in Wellsville, New York. He grew up in a deeply religious family and was ordained as a minister in the Congregational Church in 1886. Sheldon was a passionate advocate of the Social Gospel movement, which sought to apply Christian principles to address the social issues of the time, such as poverty, injustice, and worker exploitation.

His novel « In His Steps » was initially published as a serial in his church’s weekly newspaper, the « Topeka Daily Capital, » in 1896. The story revolves around the fictional town of Raymond, where the minister challenges his congregation to ask « What would Jesus do? » before making any decision. The novel explores how this commitment transforms the lives of the townspeople and their community. It was published as a book in 1897 and has since been translated into over 20 languages, with over 30 million copies sold worldwide.

Evolution and Popularization

While Sheldon’s novel brought the question into the public consciousness, it wasn’t until the late 20th century that WWJD became a cultural phenomenon. In the 1990s, the phrase was widely adopted by youth groups and Christian organizations, leading to the creation of WWJD merchandise, including bracelets, T-shirts, and bumper stickers.

The resurgence of WWJD in the 1990s can be attributed to several factors. Youth pastors and Christian leaders found the question to be a powerful tool for teaching ethical decision-making to young people. The simplicity and directness of the question made it accessible and memorable. Additionally, the rise of contemporary Christian music and media helped to spread the message of WWJD to a broader audience.

One of the most iconic symbols of the WWJD movement is the WWJD bracelet. These bracelets, typically made of silicone or fabric, bear the letters WWJD and serve as a constant reminder to ask the question in daily life. The bracelets became a fashion statement among Christian youth and were worn by celebrities, further increasing their popularity.

Several factors contributed to the renaissance of WWJD in the 1990s:

1. Christian Youth Movement: Youth pastors and Christian leaders adopted WWJD as an educational tool to teach young people the practical application of their faith in everyday life.
2. Media and Popular Culture: Contemporary Christian music groups and Christian celebrities helped popularize the concept, making WWJD a fashion trend among teenagers and young adults.
3. Commercialization: Companies saw the commercial potential of the concept and began mass-producing WWJD bracelets and other merchandise, which further increased its visibility.
4. Need for Moral Guidance: In an era of increasing moral relativism, many young Christians found in WWJD a clear and simple moral compass.

Historical Context

To fully understand the impact of WWJD, it is essential to consider the historical context in which it emerged and evolved. In the late 19th century, America was undergoing significant social and economic changes. Industrialization and urbanization were creating new challenges and inequalities. Charles Sheldon’s novel reflected the social gospel movement, which sought to apply Christian principles to address social issues such as poverty, labor rights, and racial injustice.

In the 1990s, America was experiencing a resurgence of religious conservatism and a renewed interest in personal morality and ethics. The WWJD movement provided a tangible way for individuals to connect their faith with their daily actions. It also coincided with a broader cultural trend toward self-help and personal improvement, making the message of WWJD resonate with a wide audience.

The late 19th century was a period of rapid social and economic change in America. Industrialization and urbanization were creating new challenges and inequalities. The Social Gospel movement emerged in response to these issues, advocating for the application of Christian principles to address social problems such as poverty, labor exploitation, and racial injustice.

Charles Sheldon’s novel « In His Steps » was a product of this movement. It reflected the belief that Christianity should not only be about personal salvation but also about transforming society according to Christian principles. The novel’s emphasis on asking « What would Jesus do? » in every decision was a call to live out one’s faith in practical, tangible ways.

In the 1990s, the resurgence of WWJD can be seen as a response to several cultural trends:

• The rise of moral relativism and the search for clear ethical guidance.
• The popularity of self-help and personal development movements.
• The growth of contemporary Christian music and media, which helped spread the message to a broader audience.
• The need for young Christians to find practical ways to live out their faith in everyday life.

Other Historical Influences Similar to WWJD

While WWJD has become an iconic expression, the idea of imitating Jesus or asking what He would do is not new. Throughout the centuries, many saints and Christian theologians have emphasized the importance of imitating Christ. Here are some notable examples:

1. St. Francis of Assisi (1181-1226):
   • Known for his commitment to live a life of humility and poverty in imitation of Jesus. His famous prayer begins, « Lord, make me an instrument of your peace… » reflecting his desire to follow Jesus’ example of love and service.
2. Thomas à Kempis (1380-1471):
   • Author of the classic Christian devotional « The Imitation of Christ » (De Imitatione Christi), which encourages believers to follow Jesus’ example in all aspects of life. This book has been one of the most widely read spiritual works in Christian history.
3. John Calvin (1509-1564):
   • In his writings, Calvin emphasized the importance of « imitatio Christi » (imitation of Christ) as an essential part of the Christian life. He saw it as a natural outgrowth of faith and justification.
4. John Wesley (1703-1791):
   • The founder of Methodism emphasized the importance of « holiness of heart and life » which included striving to live as Jesus did. His teachings on Christian perfection were rooted in this idea of imitating Christ.
5. Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906-1945):
   • In his classic work « The Cost of Discipleship, » Bonhoeffer wrote extensively about what it means to truly follow Jesus in everyday life, including in the face of great adversity.

These historical figures and movements show that the idea behind WWJD has deep roots in Christian tradition, even if the specific phrase is more recent.

The Social Gospel Movement and Its Impact

Charles Sheldon was a key figure in the Social Gospel movement, which emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This movement emphasized applying Christian principles to social problems, advocating for reforms such as:

• Better working conditions and fair wages for laborers
• Improved housing and living conditions for the poor
• Education and healthcare access for all
• Racial equality and justice

The Social Gospel movement had a significant impact on American society, leading to various reforms and the establishment of social service organizations. Sheldon’s novel « In His Steps » was one of the most influential works of this movement, inspiring many to live out their faith through social action.

Some of the lasting impacts of the Social Gospel movement include:

1. The Salvation Army: Founded in 1865 by William Booth, this organization combines evangelism with social services, directly inspired by the principles of the Social Gospel.
2. Settlement Houses: Institutions like Hull House in Chicago, founded by Jane Addams in 1889, provided social services and education to immigrants and the poor, embodying the Social Gospel ideals.
3. Labor Reforms: Many Christian leaders and activists worked to improve working conditions, leading to reforms like the eight-hour workday and child labor laws.
4. Civil Rights Movement: While coming later, the Civil Rights Movement was influenced by the Social Gospel’s emphasis on justice and equality.

The legacy of the Social Gospel movement continues today in various forms of Christian social activism and community service programs.

Significations and Interpretations

Understanding the Core Meaning

At its core, the question « What Would Jesus Do? » is a call to emulate the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. It encourages believers to consider how Jesus would respond in various situations and to strive to act accordingly. This involves a deep understanding of Jesus’ teachings, as recorded in the Bible, and a commitment to living out those principles in everyday life.

The question invites individuals to engage in a process of discernment and reflection. It is not merely about mimicking Jesus’ actions but understanding the underlying principles and values that guided His life. This includes love, compassion, justice, humility, and sacrificial service.

When we ask « What Would Jesus Do? », we’re invited to step into Jesus’ perspective, to see the world through His eyes of love and compassion. This question challenges us to move beyond our natural tendencies towards selfishness, pride, or fear, and instead to respond with the selfless love that characterized Jesus’ life and ministry.

Different Interpretations

While the basic premise of WWJD is straightforward, interpretations can vary widely among different Christian denominations and even among individual believers. Some focus on Jesus’ teachings on love and compassion, while others emphasize his calls to justice and righteousness.

Love and Compassion

Many interpret WWJD through the lens of Jesus’ teachings on love and compassion. This perspective emphasizes actions that demonstrate kindness, forgiveness, and empathy towards others, reflecting Jesus’ interactions with marginalized and vulnerable individuals.

For example, in the Gospel of Luke, Jesus tells the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), who shows compassion to a stranger in need, despite cultural and religious differences. This story is often cited as an example of how Jesus would respond to those in need. The parable teaches that loving our neighbor means showing practical compassion to anyone in need, regardless of their background or social status.

Another key passage illustrating Jesus’ compassion is His interaction with the woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-11). Instead of condemning her, Jesus shows mercy while also calling her to a higher standard of living.

Justice and Righteousness

Others see WWJD as a call to pursue justice and righteousness, inspired by Jesus’ actions such as overturning the tables of the money changers in the temple (Matthew 21:12-13) and His teachings on caring for the poor and oppressed (Matthew 25:31-46).

Jesus’ cleansing of the temple demonstrates His passion for justice and righteousness. He was outraged that the religious leaders were exploiting the poor by charging exorbitant fees for sacrifices. This action shows that WWJD sometimes involves confrontation and challenging unjust systems.

In the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), Jesus teaches about the Kingdom of God, which is characterized by justice, mercy, and righteousness. He calls His followers to be « salt and light » in the world (Matthew 5:13-16), implying that they should work for positive change in society.

Holiness and Personal Piety

Some interpretations of WWJD focus on Jesus’ teachings about personal holiness and spiritual discipline. This perspective emphasizes living a life of purity, prayer, and devotion to God, following Jesus’ example of regular prayer and dependence on the Father.

In the Gospel of John, Jesus speaks of abiding in Him (John 15:1-11), which involves maintaining a close relationship with God through prayer, obedience, and spiritual disciplines. This aspect of WWJD encourages believers to cultivate their spiritual life and personal character.

Prophetic Voice and Truth-Telling

Another interpretation of WWJD focuses on Jesus’ role as a prophetic voice, speaking truth to power and challenging hypocrisy. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus confronts religious leaders who are more concerned with outward appearances than with genuine righteousness (Matthew 23).

This aspect of WWJD encourages believers to speak out against injustice, hypocrisy, and corruption, even when it is unpopular or dangerous to do so. It challenges us to be courageous in standing for truth and integrity.

Biblical Foundation

The question « What Would Jesus Do? » finds its foundation in several key passages of the Bible. For example, in the Gospel of John, Jesus says, « A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another » (John 13:34). This verse encapsulates the essence of WWJD—living a life of love and service.

Other key passages include:

1. The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7):
   • Jesus’ most comprehensive teaching on Kingdom living.
   • Includes the Beatitudes (blessings on those who embody Kingdom values), teachings on anger, lust, divorce, oaths, retaliation, love for enemies, giving, prayer, fasting, judging others, and other topics.
   • Concludes with the parable of the wise and foolish builders, emphasizing the importance of putting Jesus’ teachings into practice.
2. The Great Commandment (Matthew 22:37-40):
   • « Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. »
   • This summarizes the ethical core of Jesus’ teaching and provides a foundation for WWJD.
3. The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats (Matthew 25:31-46):
   • Jesus teaches that serving the « least of these » (the hungry, thirsty, stranger, naked, sick, and imprisoned) is equivalent to serving Him.
   • This passage emphasizes the practical, compassionate aspects of WWJD.
4. Jesus’ Washing of the Disciples’ Feet (John 13:1-17):
   • Jesus models humble service by washing His disciples’ feet, then commands them to do likewise.
   • This shows that WWJD often involves humble service and putting others’ needs before our own.
5. The Golden Rule (Matthew 7:12):
   • « In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you. »
   • This is a practical summary of WWJD that can be applied in many situations.
6. Jesus’ Prayer in Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36-46):
   • Shows Jesus’ submission to the Father’s will, even in the face of suffering.
   • Demonstrates that WWJD sometimes involves sacrifice and obedience to God’s will, even when it’s difficult.

These passages (and many others) provide a rich foundation for understanding what Jesus would do in various situations and how we might follow His example.

Theological Perspectives

Different Christian traditions have varying emphases when it comes to interpreting and applying WWJD. For example:

1. Evangelical Christians:
   • Often focus on personal morality and evangelism, seeing WWJD as a call to live a holy life and share the gospel.
   • May emphasize personal conversion and discipleship as key aspects of following Jesus.
   • Typically hold to a high view of biblical authority, seeing Scripture as the primary guide for understanding what Jesus would do.
2. Mainline Protestants:
   • May emphasize social justice and community service, interpreting WWJD as a mandate to work for systemic change.
   • Often engage with contemporary social issues through the lens of WWJD.
   • Tend to be more open to cultural and contextual interpretations of Jesus’ teachings.
3. Catholics:
   • Might integrate WWJD with the principles of Catholic social teaching, which includes a focus on the dignity of the human person, the common good, and solidarity with the poor.
   • Emphasize the sacramental life and the teachings of the Church as guides for understanding what Jesus would do.
   • Often see WWJD in the context of the Church’s tradition and the lives of the saints.
4. Orthodox Christians:
   • May approach WWJD through the lens of theosis, or becoming like God, seeing it as part of the process of spiritual transformation.
   • Emphasize the importance of the Church’s liturgical life and ascetic practices in becoming more like Christ.
   • See the lives of the saints as models for what it looks like to live out WWJD.
5. Pentecostal/Charismatic Christians:
   • Often emphasize the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding believers to know what Jesus would do.
   • May focus on supernatural aspects of Jesus’ ministry (healing, deliverance, miracles) as models for Christian living.
   • Typically see WWJD as involving spiritual gifts and empowerment by the Spirit.
6. Anabaptist Christians (Mennonites, Amish, etc.):
   • Emphasize Jesus’ teachings on nonviolence, simple living, and community.
   • Often apply WWJD to pacifism and alternative community living.
   • See discipleship as involving radical obedience to Jesus’ teachings in the Sermon on the Mount.

These different perspectives show that while the core question of WWJD remains the same, its application can vary significantly based on theological tradition and emphasis.

Expert Insights

To provide a more nuanced understanding of WWJD, let’s consider insights from theologians and scholars:

1. Dallas Willard (1935-2013):
   • A renowned Christian philosopher who emphasized spiritual formation.
   • « The question ‘What Would Jesus Do?’ is not just about making decisions but about becoming the kind of person who naturally acts as Jesus would. »
   • In his book « The Divine Conspiracy, » Willard argues that following Jesus involves a transformation of character, not just external behavior.
2. N.T. Wright:
   • A prominent New Testament scholar who emphasizes the historical and cultural context of Jesus’ life.
   • « Understanding what Jesus would do requires a deep understanding of His mission and the Kingdom of God. It’s not a simple question but calls for a comprehensive view of Jesus’ life and teachings. »
   • In « Simply Jesus, » Wright explores how Jesus’ first-century Jewish context shapes our understanding of His actions and teachings.
3. Shane Claiborne (b. 1975):
   • An activist and author known for his work with the poor and his advocacy for nonviolence.
   • « WWJD is not a theoretical question but an invitation to live radically, to love our enemies, serve the poor, and pursue peace in a violent world. »
   • His book « The Irresistible Revolution » challenges readers to live out Jesus’ teachings in countercultural ways.
4. Henri Nouwen (1932-1996):
   • A Catholic priest and spiritual writer who emphasized compassion and vulnerability.
   • « To answer the question ‘What would Jesus do?’ we must first ask ‘How did Jesus love?’ His love was characterized by compassion, presence, and vulnerability. »
   • In books like « The Wounded Healer, » Nouwen explores how Jesus’ approach to ministry was marked by entering into people’s pain rather than offering easy solutions.
5. Timothy Keller (1950-2023):
   • A pastor and author known for his ability to engage with contemporary culture.
   • « WWJD is not about imagining what Jesus might do in our situation but about seeing our situation through His eyes of love and grace. »
   • His book « The Reason for God » addresses how Jesus’ teachings provide a unique perspective on modern ethical dilemmas.

These scholars offer diverse perspectives on WWJD, from spiritual formation to social justice to cultural engagement. Their insights help us see that WWJD is a multifaceted question that requires deep reflection and application.

Modern and Contemporary Interpretations

In contemporary Christian thought, WWJD continues to evolve and be applied to new contexts and challenges. Here are some current interpretations and applications:

1. Social Media Ethics:
   • How would Jesus engage on social media? This question challenges Christians to consider how their online interactions reflect Christ-like character.
   • Issues include: how we respond to disagreement, what we post/share, how we represent ourselves and others, and how much time we spend on social media vs. real-life relationships.
2. Environmental Stewardship:
   • Many Christians now apply WWJD to questions about creation care and environmental ethics.
   • How would Jesus respond to climate change, pollution, and species extinction? Would He support sustainable practices and conservation efforts?
3. Racial Reconciliation:
   • In light of ongoing racial tensions, Christians ask how Jesus would respond to racism, both individual and systemic.
   • Would He participate in protests? Advocate for policy changes? Build relationships across racial lines?
4. Gender and Sexuality:
   • Current debates about gender identity and sexual ethics lead Christians to ask WWJD in these complex areas.
   • How would Jesus interact with LGBTQ+ individuals? How would He navigate conversations about gender roles and sexual morality?
5. Political Engagement:
   • In polarized political climates, Christians grapple with how Jesus would engage with politics.
   • Would He align with a particular party? How would He balance truth and grace in political discourse?
6. Global Poverty and Refugees:
   • As awareness of global inequality grows, Christians ask how Jesus would respond to poverty, refugees, and immigration issues.
   • Would He support foreign aid, sanctuary cities, or open borders?
7. Technology and AI:
   • As artificial intelligence and other technologies develop, Christians consider how Jesus would approach questions of privacy, automation, and transhumanism.
   • Would He embrace or resist technological progress? How would He ensure technology serves human flourishing?

These contemporary applications show that WWJD remains a relevant and vital question for navigating modern life’s complexities.

Practical Applications of WWJD

Daily Life Decisions

Applying the WWJD principle in daily life can be transformative. Here are some practical ways to incorporate this question into your decision-making process:

1. Relationships:
   • Family Relationships: Before responding in anger to a family member, ask how Jesus would respond—with patience, kindness, and a desire for reconciliation.
   • Friendships: When a friend hurts you, consider how Jesus would handle forgiveness and restoration rather than holding a grudge.
   • Romantic Relationships: In dating or marriage, ask how Jesus would show love, respect, and commitment in both words and actions.
2. Workplace:
   • Leadership: If you’re in a leadership position, ask how Jesus would lead—with humility, service, and care for those under your authority.
   • Coworker Conflicts: When tensions arise at work, consider how Jesus would handle conflict resolution—seeking peace while standing for truth.
   • Ethical Dilemmas: When faced with opportunities to cut corners or compromise integrity, ask how Jesus would maintain honesty and integrity.
3. Community Involvement:
   • Volunteering: Consider how Jesus would spend His time in service to others and look for opportunities to volunteer in your community.
   • Neighborliness: Think about how Jesus would interact with neighbors—offering help, building relationships, and showing care.
   • Political Engagement: As you engage in civic life, ask how Jesus would balance truth and grace in public discourse and policy advocacy.

Here are more detailed scenarios for applying WWJD in daily life:

1. Morning Routine:
   • Before starting your day, pause to ask: « How would Jesus approach today’s tasks and interactions? »
   • Consider how Jesus began His days with prayer and connection to the Father (Mark 1:35).
2. Consumer Choices:
   • When making purchasing decisions, ask how Jesus would consider the impact on workers, the environment, and your own priorities.
   • Would Jesus prioritize fair trade, ethical labor practices, and sustainability?
3. Time Management:
   • When scheduling your time, consider how Jesus balanced ministry demands with personal renewal.
   • Would Jesus prioritize time with the Father, relationships with people, or productivity?
4. Entertainment Choices:
   • When choosing movies, music, or other entertainment, ask how Jesus would engage with culture.
   • Would He avoid certain content? Or would He engage thoughtfully with all kinds of media?
5. Social Media Use:
   • Before posting or commenting, ask how Jesus would communicate—with truth, love, and wisdom.
   • Would He spend time on social media, and if so, how would He use it?
6. Health and Wellness:
   • Consider how Jesus would care for His physical body—with proper rest, nutrition, and exercise.
   • Would He prioritize self-care to be able to serve others effectively?
7. Financial Decisions:
   • When making financial choices, ask how Jesus would view money—as a tool for good or an end in itself.
   • Would He prioritize generosity, simplicity, and wise stewardship?

Ethical Dilemmas

WWJD can be particularly helpful in navigating ethical dilemmas. Here are some scenarios and how WWJD might guide your response:

1. Honesty vs. Tact:
   • Scenario: A friend asks your opinion about something they created, and you think it’s not very good.
   • WWJD Considerations: Jesus balanced truth and grace (John 1:14). He spoke truthfully but always with love and a desire for the other person’s good.
   • Possible Response: « I appreciate the effort you put into this. Here are some thoughts on how it might be improved… »
2. Justice vs. Mercy:
   • Scenario: Someone has wronged you and deserves consequences, but you have the power to show mercy.
   • WWJD Considerations: Jesus showed both justice and mercy—He condemned sin but offered forgiveness (John 8:1-11).
   • Possible Response: Address the wrong honestly but offer a path to restoration and forgiveness.
3. Personal Gain vs. Altruism:
   • Scenario: You have an opportunity to make a lot of money, but it would require exploiting others or the environment.
   • WWJD Considerations: Jesus consistently put others’ needs above His own and called His followers to do the same (Philippians 2:3-4).
   • Possible Response: Choose the path that serves others, even if it means less personal gain.

Here are more complex ethical dilemmas and how WWJD might apply:

1. Workplace Betrayal:
   • Scenario: You discover a coworker is stealing from the company. Reporting them could cost them their job, but not reporting could hurt the company.
   • WWJD Considerations: Jesus confronted sin but sought restoration (John 8). He also valued honesty and integrity (Matthew 5:37).
   • Possible Response: Confront the coworker privately first, urging repentance and restitution. If they don’t change, report with both truth and compassion.
2. Family Loyalty:
   • Scenario: A family member asks you to lie to protect them from consequences.
   • WWJD Considerations: Jesus valued truth (John 14:6) but also showed compassion to sinners (Luke 7:36-50).
   • Possible Response: Refuse to lie but also advocate for mercy and a path to restoration.
3. Medical Ethics:
   • Scenario: A doctor is asked to participate in a procedure they believe is unethical.
   • WWJD Considerations: Jesus healed and valued life (John 10:10), but also challenged unjust systems (Matthew 21:12-13).
   • Possible Response: Refuse to participate but find ways to provide compassionate care to all involved.
4. Business Ethics:
   • Scenario: Your company asks you to overlook safety violations to save money.
   • WWJD Considerations: Jesus valued people over profit (Mark 2:27) and spoke out against exploitation.
   • Possible Response: Report violations to proper authorities while working to protect employees.
5. Environmental Ethics:
   • Scenario: Your community faces an economic opportunity that would damage the environment.
   • WWJD Considerations: Jesus cared for creation (Mark 4:35-41) and called us to be good stewards (Genesis 1:28).
   • Possible Response: Advocate for sustainable solutions that protect both people and the environment.
6. Social Justice:
   • Scenario: You witness racial discrimination but speaking up could cost you relationships or opportunities.
   • WWJD Considerations: Jesus stood with the marginalized (Luke 4:18) and challenged unjust systems (Matthew 23).
   • Possible Response: Speak up against injustice while seeking reconciliation where possible.

Case Studies

To illustrate the practical application of WWJD, let’s examine some real-life case studies:

1. The Ethical Business Owner:
   • John is the CEO of a manufacturing company. During an audit, he discovers that some of his overseas suppliers use child labor. His board pressures him to ignore it to keep costs down.
   • WWJD Process: John reflects on how Jesus consistently stood with the vulnerable (Matthew 19:14) and confronted exploitation (Matthew 21:12-13). He also considers Jesus’ call to integrity (Luke 16:10).
   • Decision: John terminates contracts with suppliers using child labor, implements strict ethical sourcing policies, and invests in fair trade practices, even at higher costs.
   • Impact: While initial profits decreased, the company’s reputation improved, leading to long-term customer loyalty. John also inspired other companies in his industry to adopt ethical sourcing.
2. The Student Standing Against Bullying:
   • Maria is a high school student who witnesses her classmate Jake being bullied daily