Greater push for two-speed Europe.

German Chancellor Merkel plans to use the EU’s month-end meeting to “push ahead with plans for a political union, including more sweeping powers for Brussels” (EU Observer, June 7, 2012).  According to Mrs. Merkel, “That means that step-by-step in the future we have to give up more powers to Europe and grant Europe more oversight possibilities” (ibid.).  She also noted that Europe’s “ambitious states” should not be held back by “recalcitrants.”  Senior EU officials are already formulating ways to increase the integration of nations and banking sectors.  Germany has played a major role related to the EU’s financial bailouts and “is now also leading the debate on further political integration” (ibid.).

In the wake of Spain’s request this week for a financial bailout for its banks, big questions loom regarding the future of the EU.  Will the euro remain, or will something take its place?

Bible prophecy reveals that a strong Beast power will emerge in Europe at the end of the age, comprised of ten kings or nations which surrender their sovereignty to a central authority (see Revelation 17).  This Beast power will very likely be led by Germany—a nation whose influence in Europe is definitely on the rise.

For more information on Germany’s future role, review our informative article, “Resurgent Germany: A Fourth Reich?”