I think it's interesting that you want to hear about Jesus from people 'of the same ilk' as you. You are choosing the answers you want to hear and limiting whatyou hear.
If you want to learn about the space shuttle would you ask the milkman.
Jesus character was what was so appealing, he drew crowds everywhere he went. He showed grace and mercy to the undeserving.
And well.. the reason why he is so popular today is because he is still very much alive and well and encounters those who seek Him.
It's the experience of encountering this Living God that transforms people, not just a purifying of one's ego...

Why would an intelligent person want to live for this Jesus fellow that people seem to like? Cause what he says rings true when you do what He says.
I have no problem at all expressing my need for this dude, I am totally dependant on what He does. This is what makes me strong, not weak.
There's lots of other reasons though, the work of the Holy Spirit, miracles, answered prayer, realised prophecy.