Re: The 5 Points of FINALISM
I don't see how the rest of that passage alters the previous statements that all the OT imagery of Zion, Jerusalem, Temple, animal sacrifices, Israel, etc., are spiritually fulfilled in the New Covenant.
If anything, they reinforce it with themes that are inimical to many chiliast beliefs, such as the notion of future opportunities for salvation for those who reject Messiah now, and a final 'shakedown' that clearly pressages the new creation rather than a further extension of the present age. In fact, I have already quoted that passage at least twice in previous posts, so I'm quite surprised that you think it supports your position.
Are you saying that the writer contradicted himself within the space of a few sentences? How, for example, do you read this clear statement about the foreview that the patriarchs had in their sights regarding the fulfilment of God's promises to them?
8 By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to set out for a place that he was to receive as an inheritance; and he set out, not knowing where he was going. 9 By faith he stayed for a time in the land he had been promised, as in a foreign land, living in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. 10 For he looked forward to the city that has foundations, whose architect and builder is God. 11 By faith he received power of procreation, even though he was too old—and Sarah herself was barren—because he considered him faithful who had promised. 12 Therefore from one person, and this one as good as dead, descendants were born, “as many as the stars of heaven and as the innumerable grains of sand by the seashore.”
13 All of these died in faith without having received the promises, but from a distance they saw and greeted them. They confessed that they were strangers and foreigners on the earth, 14 for people who speak in this way make it clear that they are seeking a homeland. 15 If they had been thinking of the land that they had left behind, they would have had opportunity to return. 16 But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God; indeed, he has prepared a city for them.
Heb. 11
.