Why did Jesus choose the Cross as His means of salvation?

The Cross means that we leave self-will behind us as we give ourselves completely to God, as Jesus does.  On the Cross Jesus overcame evil.  On the Cross Jesus sets right what has been wrong.  And on the Cross Jesus saves us. 

Through Jesus we are acquitted, justified to God from sin, and are fully forgiven.  Jesus takes us, leads us, and guides us for the rest of our lives.

What are the seven last words of Jesus on the Cross?

1)  Jesus speaks first about forgiveness.  Luke 23:34

Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." (NIV)During extreme suffering Jesus speaks of forgiveness.

2) Jesus Speaks to the Criminal on the Cross Luke 23:43

"I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise." (NIV)Faith in Jesus gives us salvation, just as it did for the thief on the Cross beside Jesus.

3) Jesus Speaks to Mary and John  John 19:26-27

When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, "Dear woman, here is your son," and to the disciple, "Here is your mother." (NIV)Jesus transfers care for his mother to John.

4) Jesus Cries Out to the Father  Matthew 27:46 (also Mark 15:34)

And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?” that is, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” (NKJV)During the full weight of taking on all sin of humanity, Jesus experiences the momentary separation from God the heavenly Father.  He is suffering on the Cross in order to die for our sins and overcome evil.

5) Jesus is Thirsty John 19:28

Jesus knew that everything was now finished, and to fulfill the Scriptures Jesus said, "I am thirsty." (NLT)Jesus refused the initial drink of vinegar, gall and myrrh (Matthew 27:34 and Mark 15:23) offered to alleviate his suffering. But here, several hours later, we see Jesus fulfilling the messianic prophecy found in Psalm 69:21.

6) It is Finished  John 19:30

... Jesus said, "It is finished!" (NLT)Jesus finished His purpose, dying for sin so that disciples may receive eternal life with Him, and He is finished redeeming those who follow Him.

7) Jesus' Last Words from Luke 23:46

Jesus called out with a loud voice, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit." When he had said this, he breathed his last. (NIV)Here Jesus is remembering the words of Psalm 31:5 and committing His Spirit into the heavenly Father's care upon death.