Hell’s Descent (Matthew 27:46; LD 16)

The Apostles’ creed states that Christ descended into hell.  This is a statement that concerns people including Calvin.  I do grant that it is confusing to speak of Christ descending into hell, but at the same time when we understand the intention of the statement it is something I would say is unclear, but also communicates something very significant.  What is so significant about Christ bearing hell?  Why does Christ have to endure hell’s suffering to accomplish redemption?