Why did Jesus have to die?
We could not die right for our own sins. But Jesus did our dying humbly and obediently and "as a sweet-smelling aroma." (in Ephesians 5:2) So, Jesus was sweet about it, pleasing our Father to forgive us and reconcile with us.
But, also, this is our example, now, of all that is required of us >
"And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, and offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma." (Ephesians 5:2)
Now that Jesus has so suffered and died sweetly for us, we are required to be sweetly and kindly patient and forgiving.
So, yes Jesus on the cross was there in order for us to be forgiven and reconciled, but also as God's prototype of how He desires for all of us to become (Romans 8:29) and live in love (1 John 4:17), and how to make only sacrifices which are in obedience to our Father and done sweetly (Matthew 11:28-30).
I believe God wanted to understand the entire human condition.
Without becoming one of us he could not feel what we feel.
I think you could be right >
"For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin." (Hebrews 4:15)
And, again, this is our example, of how we all are called to use our troubles to help us feel for others and understand what they are going through, then help them with the grace which makes us able to handle problems creatively with God in His love. So, Jesus on the cross was starting this priesthood of all of us who use our problems to understand and help others > see also 2 Corinthians 1:3-4.