I hesitate to say this because Elder McConkie has been criticized on this board for being inaccurate in some of his pre-apostolic sermons and writings, but his six-volume series on The Mortal Messiah answers your questions, if you take his opinion at face value, that is.
McConkie says historical research shows that ancient Jewish ministry did not commence until age 30. Jesus could not have proselityzed before then without being stoned.
Also, McConkie says Jesus learned and progressed precept upon precept, just like the rest of us. However, because of his advanced spirituality that he brought with him from the pre-mortal realm, he had already reached perfection by the time of his baptism.
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