Lord’s Day 16

Q44. Why does the Creed say "he descended into hell"?

To give me comfort in times of trouble and temptation. Christ my Lord suffered terrible pain and anguish in his soul, especially on the cross, so that he could rescue me from the anguish and torment of hell.

Scripture Proofs — King James Version

Isaiah 53:5

Psalm 18:5–6

Psalm 116:3

Matthew 26:36–46

Matthew 27:45–46

Hebrews 5:7–10

Parent Guide

Discuss this question together

Discussion Questions

1
What does "he descended into hell" mean according to the catechism?
2
Why is Christ's anguish on the cross a comfort instead of something frightening?
3
When have you gone through a hard time and needed to know Jesus understands suffering?

Illustration

If you were trapped in a deep, dark cave, you would want a rescuer who was willing to come all the way down to where you were. Jesus went to the deepest depths of suffering and anguish so that you would never have to face that darkness alone.

Application

The next time you face something that scares you or causes you pain, tell Jesus about it. He went through the worst suffering there is, and he did it so you would be rescued.