Question 46 — The Passion of Christ

In proper sequence we have now to consider all that relates to Christ’s leaving the world. In the first place, His Passion; second, His death; third, His burial; and, fourth, His descent into hell.

With regard to the Passion, there arises a threefold consideration: (1) The Passion itself; (2) the efficient cause of the Passion; (3) the fruits of the Passion.

Under the first heading there are twelve points of inquiry:

(1) Whether it was necessary for Christ to suffer for men’s deliverance?

• (2) Whether there was any other possible means of delivering men?
• (3) Whether this was the more suitable means?
• (4) Whether it was fitting for Christ to suffer on the cross?
• (5) The extent of His sufferings;
• (6) Whether the pain which He endured was the greatest?
• (7) Whether His entire soul suffered?
• (8) Whether His Passion hindered the joy of fruition?
• (9) The time of the Passion;
• (10) The place;
• (11) Whether it was fitting for Him to be crucified with robbers?
• (12) Whether Christ’s Passion is to be attributed to the Godhead?