@Pastor_ChrisH@Soteriology101 The simple reading of the text looks like God is patiently drawing men unto Himself, who must “choose this day whom they will serve”.
Jesus in no way "came" in AD 70. The events He and the apostles connect to his parousia (such as bodily resurrection of the saints and judgment of the nations of the Earth) did not happen in AD 70, or AD 135. A localized judgment of Israel did occur, the suspension of the Levitical priesthood did occur, both as eschatological types, similar to the Assyrian conquest, Babylonian conquest, Seleucid persecution, etc. The Roman conquest of Jerusalem and destruction of the Second Temple is no more final or total than any of those previous events, and AD 70 is not even close to being an ultimate fulfillment of the language used throughout Scripture regarding the eschaton.
Bill, judgement at the end will be for the entire world, not just Israel and the Jews. He’s coming back physically, and we’re coming out of the grave physically. We will live on a renewed Earth with Him for eternity. Eden restored, because God’s original design and purpose is NEVER thwarted or destroyed by sin in the end!
@rscotttipton1A@RobotSynergy The gathering of the saints (rapture, as it were) happens at the Resurrection of the Just, when Jesus returns at the very end. Says Scripture!