From a theological point of view all what happens in Jesus' life serves his ultimate divine destiny. He came to John the Baptist to fulfill what had been mandated for him and John who waited for him knew it beforehand as well. He is the one who recognized Jesus as the messiah and, on Jesus' request, baptised him. No wonder that after Jesus was baptized by John he started his public mission, as the one whom God intended to be the Messiah. John the Baptist had a specific role ordained by God which was to be the forerunner or precursor to the Messiah. (Luke 1:17).

But realistically (historical perspective), Jesus was one of many followers of John and after Jesus was baptized by John he took part in John's religious messianic movement and became convinced / influenced that it was himself whom God intended to be the Messiah. It is almost impossible to ignore possible influence such a magnificent person like John the Baptist could have on young Jesus.