Authentic Pentecostal Church

The Gift of Tongue

The phenomenon of speaking in tongues, as depicted in the Bible, indeed demonstrates various applications, perceptions, and purposes. Let’s explore the different dimensions of speaking in tongues, drawing from the biblical accounts, and emphasising its diverse applications, including its continuity across generations and its role within the context of a congregation.

1. Speaking in Tongues as Known Languages (Acts 2:1-12):

Context: On the Day of Pentecost, the disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit, and they began to speak in tongues.
Application: The disciples spoke in languages unknown to them, yet those from different regions heard them in their own languages. This manifestation demonstrated the universal reach of the Gospel message.

Acts 2:6-8 (NASB): “And when this sound occurred, the crowd came together and were bewildered because each one of them was hearing them speak in his own language. They were amazed and astonished, saying, ‘Why, are not all these who are speaking Galileans? And how is it that we each hear them in our own language to which we were born?'”

2. Diverse Reactions:

Faithful Understanding: Some in the crowd recognised the miraculous nature of the tongues and sought understanding (Acts 2:12).
Mockery due to Unbelief: Others, lacking faith and understanding, mocked the disciples, attributing their speech to drunkenness rather than recognising the work of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:13-15).

Acts 2:13-15 (NASB): “But others were mocking and saying, ‘They are full of sweet wine!’ But Peter, taking his stand with the eleven, raised his voice and declared to them: ‘Men of Judea and all you who live in Jerusalem, let this be known to you and give heed to my words.'”

3. Speaking in Tongues for Personal Edification (1 Corinthians 14:2):

Context: In 1 Corinthians 14, Paul discusses the personal edification aspect of speaking in tongues.
Application: While not directly related to the events of Acts 2, the principle applies. Speaking in tongues can be a form of personal prayer and communion with God, building up one’s faith.

1 Corinthians 14:2 (NASB): “For one who speaks in a tongue does not speak to people but to God; for no one understands, but in his spirit, he speaks mysteries.”

4. For All Generations (Joel 2:28-29; Acts 2:17-18):

Context: Peter, in his sermon on the Day of Pentecost, references Joel’s prophecy about the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on all people.
Application: The pouring out of the Spirit, including the gift of tongues, is declared to be for all generations, emphasising its continuity across time.

Acts 2:17-18 (NASB): “‘And it shall be in the last days,’ God says, ‘That I will pour forth of My Spirit on all mankind; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams; even on My bond-slaves, both men and women, I will in those days pour forth of My Spirit, and they shall prophesy.'”

5. Tongues and Interpretation in a Congregation (1 Corinthians 14:13-19):

Context: Paul provides guidelines for the orderly use of spiritual gifts, including tongues, in the context of a congregation.
Application: Paul emphasizes the importance of interpretation when tongues are spoken in a public setting, ensuring that the congregation is edified and understands the message. If all tongues were in a certain human language, there would be no need for them to be interpreted.

1 Corinthians 14:27-28 (NASB): “If anyone speaks in a tongue, it should be by two or at the most three, and each in turn, and one must interpret; but if there is no interpreter, he must keep silent in the church and speak to himself and to God.”

In summary, the applications of speaking in tongues are multifaceted, encompassing its manifestation as known and unknown languages, diverse reactions from believers and sceptics, its personal edification aspect in prayer to edify ourselves, its continuity across generations, and its regulated use within the context of a congregation, ensuring orderly worship. Understanding these aspects helps cultivate a comprehensive understanding of the biblical gift of speaking in tongues.