dear megaboy...
you said, "The problem with the Messiah was that to most people back then, you really would have assumed him to be a normal person, and would have to be aware of the prophecies..."
those who recognized Jesus were part of the remnant of God's people who hadn't bent their knee to other baal(s). There never was an OT expectation that everyone who did hear or see Him would recognize Him even if they DID know the prophesy. Yet, someone like Nathanael (john 1:45-49) did.
love michelle