How do you see this statement? 10. Therefore, there is no such thing as the "ten lost tribes." The ten tribes of the Northern Kingdom, from the time of Elijah down to the time when Shalmanezer invaded, constantly fled south. So all the tribes were represented in the Southern Kingdom after the Northern Kingdom fell.
Josephus mentions in Book XI of the Antiquities of the Jews, chapter V, paragraph 2 that the Ten tribes are still beyond the Euphrates, not subject to the Romans, and are an immense multitude not to be estimated by numbers. He states that only two tribes are still in the vicinity of Judea.
Just curious as to your thoughts on this as Josephus has always been well respected as a historian.
I'm reading the Chapter by Josephus now. From a quick glance it appears the notation in 10 is a conclusion of the reference in note nine to 1Chronicles, which describes some of those who went to Jerusalem, which is also in keeping with those reported to have been allowed to go to rebuild the temple to Jerusalem by Cyrus.
I draw from the comment that a remnant of the other tribes are represented in Jerusalem, although the main tribe needn't be present to still fulfill prophecy.
His reference I believe was an aside in those years to some other cultic interpretations of Scripture by other local churches in their eschatolologies.
Good question though, as the Lord has blessed me through your guidance with an opportunity to further study this Old Testament theology and ramifications on doctrine.