As you begin to divide the word of God you will notice yourself having more questions than answers. One of those questions that always seemed to creep up on me was, “What did Christ do between the time of the crucifixion and the resurrection?”
This may not sound like it is of any great significance, but as our thirst for the truth grows, so does our understanding that every moment of the life of Christ was significant. Not only significant, but literally of eternal importance.
For this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.
1 Peter 4:6
As Christ took His last breath, and His mortal life was extinguished, He descended to the dead. His triumphant descent was to bring the gift of salvation to the souls trapped in Hell. Those souls being held captive since the beginning of the world.
Before Christ and the New Testament, the Old Testament belief was that, when a person died they would then descend to a dark, still, underworld, know as Sheol.
The word “Hell”—from the Norse, Hel; in Latin, infernus, infernum, inferni; in Greek, ᾍδης (Hades); in Hebrew, שאול (Sheol)—is used in Scripture and the Apostles’ Creed to refer to the abode of all the dead, whether righteous or evil, unless or until they are admitted to Heaven.
The Harrowing of Hell is a truly remarkable event in Christian theology that is a testament to the power of God and the triumph of good over evil. It is a powerful reminder that even in the face of great adversity, we can overcome it with faith and determination. Christ’s willingness to descend into the depths of hell to save his people from damnation is a true expression of selflessness and devotion, and it inspires us to seek a deeper relationship with God.
This event teaches us about the significance of humility and the importance of living a life of righteousness. It is a reminder that there are consequences for our actions, and that we must strive to follow Christ’s teachings and live our lives with integrity and purpose.
The Harrowing of Hell is a symbol of hope and redemption, a beacon of light in a world that can often seem dark and overwhelming. It is a powerful reminder that we can overcome even the toughest of challenges with faith, perseverance, and the grace of God.
