Understanding the Gift of Tongues
Speaking in tongues is a spiritual gift from the Holy Spirit, mentioned in Acts and 1 Corinthians. It is the ability to speak a language the speaker has not learned. The Bible distinguishes between two primary types of this gift based on their context and purpose.
Type 1: The Evangelistic Tongue (Acts)
This type of tongues is a known human language spoken for the purpose of evangelism. The most notable example is found in Acts 2, on the Day of Pentecost.
- How it works: The Holy Spirit enables a believer to speak a real, earthly language they do not know.
- Purpose: To serve as a sign to unbelievers and to spread the Gospel across language barriers.
- Example: In Acts 2, Jewish pilgrims from various nations heard the disciples speaking about God’s wonders in their own native languages.
Type 2: The Edification Tongue (1 Corinthians)
This type of tongue is an Unknown language spoken to God, not to men. It is not intended for public understanding unless accompanied by interpretation.
- How it works: A person speaks an unintelligible spiritual language for personal or communal edification.
- Purpose: To edify the individual (1 Corinthians 14:4) or, if interpreted, to edify the entire church.
- Example: Paul says, “He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself” (1 Corinthians 14:4).
The Guide for Proper Use
Paul’s instructions in 1 Corinthians 14 provide a clear guide for using tongues in a public setting to ensure it is done properly.
- Orderly Use: Only two or three people should speak in tongues during a service, and they must do so “each in turn.” This prevents chaos and confusion.
- The Role of the Interpreter: If a tongue is spoken, there must be an interpreter present. The interpreter is a separate person who has the spiritual gift to translate the message for the congregation.
- Self-Control: The speaker and the interpreter both have control over their gifts. A person is not overcome by the Holy Spirit to the point of losing control. The speaker must remain silent if no interpreter is present.
- Purpose Over Preference: Paul emphasizes that a message that is understood is more valuable than a gift that is not. He says he would “rather speak five words with my understanding… than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue” (1 Corinthians 14:19). This highlights that the ultimate goal of all spiritual gifts is the edification of the entire body of believers.