I persoanlly don't think it was necessary for Christ to have specifically died on the cross.
However, I do think that the Father knew in advance that this would happen -- and, as such, gave the appropriate fore-warnings so that when it happened (under the proper conditions), those who were expecting the Messiah would be able to recognize him.
Edit: I've already explained in other threads why I felt it was important for God to become man and experience life from our human perspective. Likewise, even though I don't think it was necessary for Christ to have died the way he did, I still think his death and resurrection where nonetheless the contact points for God to have access to our souls and redeem us into heaven.
This message has been edited by Mr. Ex Nihilo, 10-15-2005 08:29 PM
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