Traditional Anglican ping, continued in memory of its founder Arlin Adams. A Christian with a God-given mind that questions, I've always interpreted this differently than most (and perhaps it borders on heresy). Could this also mean that there is indeed a "second chance" for some in hell? Repent and forgiven? And whom wouldn't want to repent in hell?
This passage from Peter, and the accompanying part of the Apostles' Creed, have caused much confusion. Peter says Christ went to "Hades" to preach to the imprisoned souls there. That seems pretty simple. Who were they? It doesn't say. There are some theories, but none which really impact any Christian doctrine.
I like that the Apostles' Creed is now often recited without "he descended into Hell." It adds nothing in terms of doctrine, but has given cause for many to assert that Christ died spiritually, and was tortured in Hell for our salvation. That is not supported by Scripture at all, and is often contradicted by it. It allows confusion over whether the Cross was sufficient. The Author of Confusion must love it.
RESURRECTION ICON
Here's a section of the Paschal Sermon of +John Chrysostomos which addresses the issue at hand:
"Let no one grieve at his poverty, for the universal kingdom has been revealed. Let no one mourn that he has fallen again and again; for forgiveness has risen from the grave. Let no one fear death, for the Death of our Savior has set us free. He has destroyed it by enduring it. He destroyed Hades when He descended into it. He put it into an uproar even as it tasted of His flesh. Isaiah foretold this when he said, "You, O Hell, have been troubled by encountering Him below." Hell was in an uproar because it was done away with. It was in an uproar because it is mocked. It was in an uproar, for it is destroyed. It is in an uproar, for it is annihilated. It is in an uproar, for it is now made captive. Hell took a body, and discovered God. It took earth, and encountered Heaven. It took what it saw, and was overcome by what it did not see. O death, where is thy sting? O Hades, where is thy victory? Christ is Risen, and you, o death, are annihilated! Christ is Risen, and the evil ones are cast down! Christ is Risen, and the angels rejoice! Christ is Risen, and life is liberated! Christ is Risen, and the tomb is emptied of its dead; for Christ having risen from the dead, is become the first-fruits of those who have fallen asleep. To Him be Glory and Power forever and ever. Amen!