After the atrocities the Japanese inflicted during World War II, Japan’s constitution was amended with Article 9 restricting Japan’s military to strict self-defense only. However, that is about to change.
Japan is seeking to change Article 9 of its constitution to allow for a so-called “collective self defense” in which Japan would collaborate with allies in mutual military defense. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is also hoping for a swift change to permit the Japanese military to develop offensive capabilities. Though he has a political hill to climb, he is close to a consensus with his coalition party.
The United States has long been encouraging Japan to “normalize” its military posture including first strike capabilities. Japan, for its part, wants to show that it is still a world power.
Meanwhile, Germany is also restoring its military involvement in affairs outside its territory. The old powers are gradually shedding their post-World War II restraints, restoring their militaries and marshaling for war.
“There is a study of history that is not to be condemned. Sacred history was one of the studies in the schools of the prophets. In the record of His dealings with the nations were traced the footsteps of Jehovah. So today we are to consider the dealings of God with the nations of the earth. We are to see in history the fulfillment of prophecy, to study the workings of Providence in the great reformatory movements, and to understand the progress of events in the marshaling of the nations for the final conflict of the great controversy. “ Ministry of Healing, page 441, 442