I believe Jesus, and cousin John, were of the Essenes and helped to bring Eastern beliefs into the Middle East combining with Judaism to become Christianity. The Magi in the Nativity were from the east. Many teachings correspond with Buddhism and Zoroastriaism. And there is no mention of wives for either, which I understand was highly unlikely in any other Jewish sect, but quite common among Essenes at their age and as "rabis."
My understanding is that Nazareth was a main stop on a very busy trade route, which gave ample opportunity for them as boys and young men, to hear about many foreign philosophies, traditions, etc. I also think Jesus had conflicting thoughts going on in his mind during his formable years, but I must say I'm grateful for the path he followed.
Do I think he was God? No more or less than you or I, but consecrated, or chosen for a special destiny, oh yes! If God consecrated Jeremiah to be a prophet (Jeremiah Chapter1) then I most certainly believe Jesus was specifically chosen for the task he fulfilled -- conquering the world.