What Did Jesus Do When He Descended Into Hell?
Today we will talk about what did Jesus do when he descended into hell. Many Christians do not know what this means. It might seem a bit confusing, but it’s a topic that is worth understanding as it gives us a deeper insight into Jesus’ mission and the entirety of His sacrifice. The term “hell” can be perplexing, as it appears in various forms and interpretations within the Bible. We will look at the theological, linguistic, and historical elements of this topic. Let’s open our hearts and minds as we explore what Scripture says about this significant moment in Jesus’ ministry.
The Meaning of “Descended Into Hell”
The phrase “descended into hell” is taken from the Apostles’ Creed, a statement of Christian faith that, despite being quite ancient, continues to resonate today. The original wording in the Hebrew Scriptures regarding hell is “Sheol,” while the Greek equivalent is “Hades.” Both terms suggest a place of the dead, rather than the infernal torment we typically associate with the word “hell” today.
In the Old Testament, Sheol is described as a shadowy place where all deceased people go, regardless of their righteousness or wickedness (Ecclesiastes 3:20). In terms of etymology, “Sheol” comes from a root meaning “to ask” or “to inquire,” perhaps reflecting a longing for answers about life and death. On the other hand, the New Testament introduces the concept of “Hades,” which has similar implications but also connotes a place of temporary punishment for the wicked (Luke 16:23-24).
Historically, viewing Jesus’ descent into this place can offer rich insight into His work on the Cross. Several passages allude to Jesus’ action of going to the spirits in prison (1 Peter 3:19), indicating His presence in the realm of the dead to proclaim His victory over sin and death. This helps us understand that Jesus’ mission was not just about His life and ministry on Earth but also included His work in the afterlife. Jesus proclaimed the Good News to those waiting for redemption; He brought hope to those who had died (Ephesians 4:8-10).
The Biblical Basis for the Descent
Many Bible scholars and theologians affirm that Jesus’ descent to hell is validated through various scriptures. One key passage is found in Matthew 12:40, where Jesus states, “For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.” Here, “the heart of the earth” is often interpreted to mean a reference to Hades or Sheol, highlighting his time in the realm of the dead. This verse establishes a direct connection between Jesus’ physical death and his spiritual ministry in the afterlife.
Additionally, in Acts 2:31, Peter quotes King David, saying, “David spoke concerning him: ‘You will not abandon my soul to Hades, nor let your Holy One see corruption’.” Peter affirms that Jesus’ resurrection challenged the hold of Hades, marking it to become a place of captivity rather than punishment—a victorious outcome of Christ’s work.
Moreover, the perspective of Jesus’ activity during this time is clarified in 1 Peter 4:6, which reads, “For this is why the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, that though judged in the flesh the way people are, they might live in the spirit the way God does.” The preaching of the gospel to the deceased reveals Jesus’ desire to extend salvation even to those who have already passed away and reinforces that His grace knows no bounds.
Understanding Jesus’ purpose in hell can bring comfort to believers. His descent isn’t primarily about punishment, but rather about proclamation—a powerful announcement regarding salvation and victory. The book of Revelation (1:18) records Jesus saying, “I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.” This imagery signifies that Jesus not only visited the dead but also triumphed over death and Hades. The keys symbolize authority, indicating that He has conquered sin and death. Jesus took the grip of death away, offering eternal life to those who believe in Him.
This triumph over Hades emphasizes Christians can approach God with confidence. We are assured that hell was not a victory for Satan; instead, it was a moment where Jesus shared the Good News, paving the path for redemption. The notion of Jesus having authority over Hades reassures us that death is not the end but a transition to everlasting life with Him (John 11:25-26).
Furthermore, the descent into hell has theological implications that stress Jesus’ identification with the human condition. By experiencing death and even spending time among the dead, Christ affirms the depth of His engagement with humanity. He wasn’t removed from our struggles; He chose to walk through every part of the experience, giving us hope that there’s nothing in life or death that can separate us from His love (Romans 8:38-39).
Several Church Fathers provided their insights on Jesus’ descent into hell. For instance, Justin Martyr wrote in the second century that Jesus went to the realm of the dead to proclaim the gospel to those who were there. Similarly, Irenaeus asserted that Christ took on death and then dismantled its power, capturing those who were in the depths. Tertullian also echoed sentiments of this nature, indicating that Jesus freed the souls held captive to sin and death.
These interpretations underscore a consistent theme throughout early Christianity: Christ’s work transcended mere earthly ministry. His journey into hell highlights the extensiveness of His salvation offer extending even to those who had been lost before His crucifixion. This understanding nurtures a deeper appreciation for God’s mercy and grace, emphasizing the boundless nature of God’s love.
The references to the harrowing of hell—the act of Jesus preaching to the spirits—has historically shaped Christian eschatology as believers understand their path toward salvation and the afterlife. We can gain insight into the purpose of Christ’s coming and the overall story of redemption, providing believers with firm assurance of hope even beyond physical death.
Final Thoughts
Understanding what Jesus did when He descended into hell is a reminder of His amazing grace and love for us. His descent signifies victory over sin and death, extending salvation even to those who seemed lost. Jesus’ actions demonstrated the depth of His identification with humanity, affirming that He understands our struggles and pains.
As we learn more about this aspect of Jesus’ mission, it becomes clear that there is no situation, no sin, and no depth of despair from which we cannot be redeemed. His proclamation of hope echoes across ages, ensuring us that His love and His salvation are available to all who believe.
In the journey of faith, it is comforting to know that even in the darkest places, Jesus is there offering light and grace. We can walk in confidence that nothing can separate us from His love. The story of His descent reassures us that He has conquered all, and through Him, we have eternal life and hope.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4