Where Did Jesus Go After His Death? A Journey Through the Three Days

This helps us make sense of Ephesians 4:9, which says that before ascending to the heavens, Jesus first descended “to the lower, earthly regions.” This has been interpreted by some to suggest that Jesus descended into hell. Hades is shown in two separate compartments by the parable of Lazarus and the rich man (Luke 16): one a place of torment and flames, the other a place of comfort called “Abraham’s bosom” or paradise.

Early Christian traditions contain several accounts of resurrection, one being the tale of Carinus and Lenthius, who, after Jesus was crucified, were resurrected themselves. They claimed to have witnessed the events that occurred in hell during the three days. Their tale is ultimately undocumented in the Bible, though it appears in the “Acta Pilati” or “The Gospel of Nicodemus” — a narrative conveying more details on Jesus’ journey.

Never mind the Descent into Hell: Light in the Darkness

Not even the most holy people—Daniel, Isaiah, David, and Adam—had yet reached paradise; Carinus said that this was what Lenthius had told them. All were held captive in a prison, waiting for the time when they would be rescued. As they waited, they saw a purple light brighter than anything that had ever come from hell pierce through the gates. This light signified Christ’s descent into hell. Satan demanded to know what this light was, and it stirred up all the demons as Beelzebub, the gatekeeper of hell, questioned him; Satan responded that Jesus had entered his domain.

According to these narratives, a thunderous voice commanded Beelzebub to open the gates of hell. The gates opened by themselves, and Beelzebub was terrified. The shackled saints began to sing, knowing that the prophecy in Psalm 16:10 was being fulfilled: “For you will not leave my soul in hell; neither will you let your Holy One see decay.”

Preaching and Redemption

Suddenly, all the prisons in hell broke open. Jesus preached the gospel to those held captive in chains. Those who believed in His message were liberated and transported by Christ to paradise, including Adam and the prophets. As they arrived at paradise, they were greeted by an angel guarding the gates. On the way, they met a man in tattered clothes who showed them the cross he bore on his shoulder, proving that he was the thief crucified alongside Jesus.

Carinus and Lenthius—The Biblical Storyline:

The accounts of Carinus and Lenthius aren’t in the Bible, but they offer a glimpse into what might have happened during those three days. Their story aligns with the journey Jesus undertook following His crucifixion and before His resurrection.

Conclusion: The Journey to Redemption

Jesus’ time of suffering did not end with His death. During those three days, He descended into hell, preached to the captive souls, and led the just into paradise. This profound journey underscores the depth of Jesus’ sacrifice and the fulfillment of God’s promise of salvation.

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