The term used in this verse refers to total destruction, that is, leaving no part that is not destroyed, and leaving no hope of redemption. Those who committed capital crimes (such as serving other gods, Exodus 22:20) were decreed to death, with no ransom possible (Leviticus 27:29). While the Lord issues the call to repentance and reformation, the day will come when there is no longer opportunity to repent. When the day of the Lord comes, it will be too late to seek forgiveness and pardon. Therefore, the call to repentance must be obeyed “today” (Hebrews 3:15; Hebrews 4:7).
6 And he will turn the hearts of fathers to their children and the hearts of children to their fathers, lest I come and strike the land with a decree of utter destruction.”