The death of Jesus was a historical, prophetic, and even theological necessity. However, Jesus interpreted His death as the consequence and culmination of his life and mission.

The death of Jesus was a historical necessity because it is something that frequently happens. It is natural for criminals to be persecuted and killed, even before. Also, death was not contained to such people. Those who got in the way of power, like Jesus did, also get killed. Jesus' path of radical fidelity to God got Him a lot of enemies who plotted against Him. It was a prophetic necessity because prophets die for …

…to death. Jesus also interpreted His death as the culmination of His life and mission. Jesus understands His life as service and, in the end, sacrificial service. "For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many." (Mk 10:45) Through His death, Christ was able to show that He is faithful to God and a person who serves others until the very end.