Holy Christ – It Works: A Practical Message From a Carpenter’s Son

About the Book

This thought-provoking and good-humored book asks the question few Christians dare voice: What are the real, personal rewards of living as Jesus taught?

Blending business-style analysis with spiritual insight, Holy Christ – It Works examines Jesus’ teachings as a practical investment—one that promises immediate, tangible returns in daily life. Setting aside dogma and divinity, Jackson focuses on the religion of Jesus, not the religion about Jesus, exploring how his message enriches individuals and communities alike.

Through engaging essays, readers are invited to weigh compassion against self-interest, generosity against greed, gratitude against grievance, and discover how Christ’s radical way of living actually works—right here, right now.

With practical examples, modern reflections, and stories from believers and skeptics alike, this book challenges readers to “taste and see” the benefits of Jesus’ path—and decide for themselves whether the investment is worth it.

“Finally, in readable, understandable language, here comes a book that gives a real, honest description of what Jesus offers. An absolute page-turner.”
—Rev. Dr. William Phillippe, Former Executive Director of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA)

“Remarkable collection of encouragements regarding Jesus Christ’s value and messages … cleverly presented, with impressive command of the language. A must read for anyone wanting to understand and take a fresh look at the Christian life.”
—Val Matthews, Christian intellectual and Solutions Architect, IBM

“Bart Jackson’s book sets the table for any of us who thirst for knowledge, understanding, and a little humorous wit. Here is wisdom, depth, and impactful paragraphs – so refreshingly warm and funny – that it offers a shortcut to the Bible itself. It entices the mind with objective questions, instead of judgement, and in place of preachments, the reader is offered a choice.

The book’s insightful perspective of viewing Jesus’s message as an investment offering – an opportunity worthy of our personal due diligence – stands as unique and remarkably timely. These short essays bring Christ’s word readably, practically into our lives, as we grope for direction today. A must read. Add this book to your table of life.”
—Jeanne Murphy, Founding Director, Marriah Media

“This is the most interesting book I have ever read. Bart Jackson has written a no nonsense assessment of what it costs to be a pragmatic realist committing to be a better person. He is not espousing a sugar-coated, holier than thou platitude. Written for the serious seeker, he is not the author for seekers comforted by certainty. Rather, he has a message for those of us comforted by ambiguity.”
—Alfred R. Berkeley, Director World Economic Forum, USA

“I am thrilled to recommend Bart Jackson’s Holy Christ – It Works unreservedly, not only to agnostic or non-Christian adults, but also to believers like myself who will benefit from Bart’s fresh approach. His oft-humorous viewpoint can be disarming and is ever interesting. The conversational, amusing tone of Bart’s writing compels one to turn the page. This author makes it crystal clear that such an evangelistic appeal is for the personal consideration of each reader, to respond (or not) as they choose…a unique contribution to what I would call Christian apologetics.”
—Elem Eley, Professor of Voice Emeritus, Westminster Choir College

“What a wonderfully practical, informative, humorous, and authentic look at what Jesus taught. Instead of trying to prove who Jesus was and therefore you should do what he taught, he flips the logic and challenges everyone to use His principles and see if they truly work for you. When you try it out for real …. Holy Christ— It works. Wish I’d had this in seminary!”
—Rev. Susan Brack, United Methodist Pastor, Retired, author of Miracles Among Us