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And that's one of the major reasons why you can't take the O.T prophecies and promises concerning the restoration of Israel and the rule and reign of our Lord Jesus here on earth seriously.
What your friend has failed to see and understand is what is called the now, but not yet aspect of prophecy. It is "Now" because Jesus has inaugurated the Kingdom, like the planting of the mustard seed of the parable in Luke 13:19. But then it is still "Not Yet" because the kingdom not yet fulfilled. In the analogy this is because the mustard seed has not yet grown into the tree. This all has to do with the inauguration, continuation, and consummation (ICC) of the Kingdom of God. I would suggest going to IIIMill and looking for articles on the ICC and the now, but not yet aspect of prophecy. Here is an old diagram I posted some time ago: Now, but not yet.

Reformed and Always Reforming,