LORD’S DAY 16
40. Why was it necessary for Christ to suffer “death”?
Because the justice and truth1Genesis 2:17 of God required that satisfaction for our sins could be made in no other way than by the death of the Son of God.2Hebrews 2:9; Romans 6:23
41. Why was He “buried”?
To show thereby that He was really dead.3Matthew 27:59-60; John 19:38-42; Acts 13:29
42. Since, then, Christ died for us, why must we also die?
Our death is not a satisfaction for our sin, but only a dying to sin and an entering into eternal life.4John 5:24; Philippians 1:23; Romans 7:24-25
43. What further benefit do we receive from the sacrifice and death of Christ on the cross?
That by virtue thereof our old man is crucified, dead, and buried with Him;5Romans 6:6-8; Colossians 2:12 so that the evil lusts of the flesh may no more reign in us,6Romans 6:12 but that we may offer ourselves unto Him a sacrifice of thanksgiving.7Romans 12:1; 2 Corinthians 5:15
44. Why is it added: “He descended into hell”?
That in my greatest temptations, I may be assured, and wholly comfort myself in this, that my Lord Jesus Christ, by His inexpressible anguish, pains, terrors, and hellish agonies, in which He was plunged during all His sufferings, but especially on the cross, has delivered me from the anguish and torments of hell.8Isaiah 53:10; Matthew 27:46; Psalm 18:5; 116:3