August 11, 2025

Discourses of Robert S. Seklemian


Description

This book blends biblical exposition, moral lessons, and historical accounts to inspire steadfast faith, humility, and reliance on God. Through personal history, scriptural narratives like David and Goliath, and moral reflections on pride, trust, and divine protection, it urges readers to walk closely with God, uphold truth, and live with courage and gratitude.
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839

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Language

English

  • Summary
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The work is a collection of inspirational discourses by Robert S. Seklemian, blending biblical history, moral instruction, and personal application. It begins with a brief biography of Seklemian, followed by expositions on various Bible accounts—such as David and Goliath, the Psalms of David, and Belshazzar’s feast—drawing out lessons on faith, humility, divine protection, and the dangers of pride.

1. Biography of Robert S. Seklemian

  • Born in 1898 to Armenian parents, Robert endured a family history marked by survival from persecution.

  • Served at the Watchtower Society’s headquarters in his youth, later leaving due to doctrinal conflict over the ransom teaching.

  • Built a long career with RCA Communications, earning degrees in law and engineering, and remained active in biblical service.

  • Known for a balance of gentleness and steadfast conviction, he was a devoted Bible student and servant until his death in 1984.

2. “After God’s Own Heart” – David and Goliath

  • Retells the story of David’s courage against Goliath, emphasizing faith in God over human strength.

  • Highlights Israel’s fear despite God’s proven history of miraculous deliverance.

  • Shows David’s zeal as rooted in a personal relationship with God, seeing Goliath’s defiance as an insult to the Almighty.

  • Lesson: God uses humble, faithful people for His purposes, looking at the heart, not outward strength.

  • Draws parallels between David as a shepherd and Christ as the protector of God’s flock.

3. The Psalms of David

  • Celebrates the Psalms as expressions of praise, deep feeling, and prophetic insight.

  • Explains David’s observations of nature and life as sources of worshipful reflection.

  • Encourages specific, heartfelt thanks to God, not just general expressions.

  • Uses metaphors like a “castle” to describe God as a refuge and fortress.

  • Reminds believers of divine protection, likened to angelic “secret service,” constantly watching over the faithful.

4. All Things for Our Good

  • Expounds Romans 8:28, teaching that God orchestrates all experiences—pleasant or painful—for the spiritual good of those who love Him.

  • Uses the shipwreck survivor’s “signal fire” and Joseph’s life story to show that apparent misfortunes can lead to blessings.

  • Encourages trust during trials, knowing that God’s purposes may only be clear in hindsight.

5. Guardian Angels and Divine Care

  • Relates the story of Elisha and the “horses and chariots of fire” to show unseen divine protection.

  • Encourages seeing life’s challenges with the “eye of faith,” trusting God’s knowledge of our needs.

  • Counters the fear of God’s chastening by explaining it as loving correction, not punitive cruelty.

  • Highlights God’s mercy, using David’s experiences to illustrate His compassion.

6. Belshazzar’s Feast and the Fall of Babylon

  • Describes the historical grandeur of Babylon and the pride of King Belshazzar.

  • Recounts the blasphemous use of sacred temple vessels at a drunken feast.

  • Details the supernatural handwriting on the wall—“MENE, MENE, TEKEL, PERES”—interpreted by Daniel as God’s judgment.

  • Explains the sudden overthrow of Babylon by the Medes and Persians through Cyrus’s diversion of the Euphrates River.

  • Main lesson: Pride leads to downfall; failure to honor God brings destruction.

7. Moral Themes and Lessons

  • Faith over fear: Trust God’s power in impossible situations.

  • Humility: Avoid pride, recognizing God as the source of all blessings.

  • Gratitude: Offer specific thanks for answered prayers.

  • Divine refuge: God is a constant, secure fortress.

  • Providence: All events are guided by God for the believer’s ultimate good.

  • Mercy: God’s correction is motivated by love, not wrath.

Conclusion: 

Discourses of Robert S. Seklemian is both a spiritual commentary and a moral guide. Through vivid retellings of biblical narratives, historical context, and practical applications, it teaches readers to remain humble, courageous, and thankful, trusting in God’s sovereign care and protection in all circumstances.