Pieterskerkhof, Utrecht

Pieterskerkhof in Utrecht in a particularly impressive structure dating back to 1040. It is characterised by thick pillars, rounded arches and a large crypt. Had it been located in England, we would have called it the finest Saxon structure in the land. As well as being visually impressive, the proprietors charge no admission, which plenty of other Dutch and English churches are inclined to do.

The area around the Pieterskerk once fell under the 'immunity of Saint Peter’ from the time of its construction until the sixteenth- and seventeenth-century reformations. This effectively gave it independence from local regulation and law enforcement; any crimes committed in its precincts would only be dealt with by church courts operating under canon law. This tended to treat clergy with more leniency, though I note that clerical landlords were often more rapacious than their secular counterparts, if one is tempted to attribute this gentleness to Christian charity. It essentially made monks, priests and bishops (and all their retinues) above the law.

In one of our evening Bible Studies last month we considered one of Paul’s references to the Judgement Seat of Christ in Romans 14. A long discussion ensued, considering the differences between the general judgement of unbelievers whereby sentence of hell is passed, and the accountability of believers, when they are answerable for works done in the body, whether good or ill. In one respect, we also enjoy the privileges of an immunity, not from Peter, but from Christ Himself. The flames of hell cannot so much as lick the feet of a believer, for his sin is remitted, his sentence served, His substitute accepted, his punishment spent. On the other hand, the Lord expects His people to live according to His standards, and unlike the godless worldlings and idolaters among whom they dwell, they should have the means and desire to do so. Some Christians are building with hay and wood and straw, and their earthly work is of no eternal consequence, or commendation. We might be immune from eternal separation, but we are still answerable to the One whom we call ‘Lord’.

But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. Romans 14:10

For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. 2 Corinthians 5:10