Introduction
The gift of speaking in unknown tongues is one of the most controversial spiritual gifts listed in 1 Corinthians 12. My intent is not to stir or spread controversy but to approach the topic with love and understanding, as instructed by the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 13:
“Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal.” (1 Corinthians 13:1)
As we delve into the question, “What is speaking in tongues?” let us remain focused on our mission as followers of Christ—to love one another and bear witness to the world. This is not an issue that should cause division among believers but a gift that, when used properly, strengthens the body of Christ.
What Is Speaking in Tongues?
Speaking in tongues is a unique gift of the New Testament Church, absent from the Old Testament. It is the ability to speak in a language previously unknown to the speaker, not through natural learning but by the unction of the Holy Spirit.
Critics have questioned the validity of this gift, often attempting to test whether the spoken tongues were known human languages. While some instances have involved human languages, others have not. This lack of earthly recognition does not invalidate the gift, as Paul refers to “tongues of men and angels”:
“Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal.” (1 Corinthians 13:1)
This suggests that some tongues may be heavenly languages, emphasizing the supernatural nature of this gift. It reflects the diverse ways the Holy Spirit empowers believers to communicate with God and others.
Praying vs. Publicly Speaking in Tongues
Praying in Tongues
Paul distinguishes between praying in tongues and publicly speaking in tongues. In 1 Corinthians 14, he explains:
“For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful.” (1 Corinthians 14:14)
Praying in tongues edifies the spirit, even though the mind may remain unfruitful. It is a personal, intimate way to connect with God, often used in private prayer. Paul himself attested to the value of this practice:
“I thank my God I speak with tongues more than you all.” (1 Corinthians 14:18)
Praying in tongues allows believers to express themselves beyond the limitations of human language, offering worship and intercession in a way that aligns with the Spirit’s will.
Public Use of Tongues
When tongues are spoken publicly, they must be interpreted to benefit the congregation:
“If anyone speaks in a tongue, let there be two or at the most three, each in turn, and let one interpret. But if there is no interpreter, let him keep silent in church, and let him speak to himself and to God.” (1 Corinthians 14:27-28)
When tongues are interpreted, they become equivalent to prophecy:
“Therefore tongues are for a sign, not to those who believe but to unbelievers; but prophesying is not for unbelievers but for those who believe.” (1 Corinthians 14:22)
This gift serves as a sign to unbelievers, often bypassing resistance and leading them to acknowledge God’s presence. It highlights the evangelistic potential of tongues when exercised in alignment with God’s purposes.
Did Jesus Speak in Tongues?
Developing A Supernatural Worldview Bible Study
A topical Bible study course on the supernatural Christian life; perfect for Mid-Week services, home groups, Sunday School, or personal growth!
There is no record of Jesus publicly speaking in tongues. This gift appears exclusively in the early church. However, some suggest that Jesus may have prayed in tongues, based on John 11:38:
“Then Jesus, again groaning in Himself, came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone lay against it.” (John 11:38)
The phrase “groaning in Himself” could imply deep spiritual intercession, akin to the “groanings” mentioned in Romans 8:26:
“Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.” (Romans 8:26)
Paul also uses the phrase “praying in the Spirit” synonymously with praying in tongues:
“For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful.” (1 Corinthians 14:14)
While this interpretation is speculative, it suggests a possible connection to Jesus’ prayer life and the broader role of spiritual intercession. It also emphasizes the depth of communion with God facilitated by the Spirit.
The Gift of Tongues in the Early Church
The Day of Pentecost
The first recorded instance of speaking in tongues occurs in Acts 2:
“When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” (Acts 2:1-4)
This event drew a crowd as people from various nations heard the disciples speaking in their native languages:
“And how is it that we hear, each in our own language in which we were born?” (Acts 2:8)
This miraculous display served as a sign to unbelievers, authenticating the arrival of the Holy Spirit and empowering the apostles for their mission. It also marked the beginning of the Church’s global outreach, breaking down linguistic and cultural barriers.
Peter and Cornelius
In Acts 10, Peter witnessed the Gentiles at Cornelius’ house speaking in tongues:
“While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who heard the word. … For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God.” (Acts 10:44-46)
This event confirmed that salvation and the Holy Spirit were available to all, including Gentiles. It served as a divine endorsement of the Church’s mission to reach every nation, tribe, and tongue.
Paul’s Encounter in Ephesus
During one of Paul’s missionary journeys, he met believers in Ephesus who had not yet received the Holy Spirit:
“And when Paul had laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied.” (Acts 19:6)
This marked the empowering of the Holy Spirit, distinct from the indwelling received at salvation. It illustrates the role of tongues as both a personal and corporate expression of the Spirit’s presence.
The Gift of Tongues in the Church Today
The modern resurgence of tongues is not limited to Pentecostalism. Historical records indicate that Martin Luther, John Wesley, and others experienced this gift during revival movements. Today, an estimated 400–600 million Christians worldwide believe in and practice speaking in tongues, making it one of the fastest-growing movements within Christianity.
It is important to emphasize that this growth does not imply superiority or spiritual perfection. As a Pentecostal, I can attest that we are far from perfect. However, the openness to the Holy Spirit’s empowerment has contributed significantly to the Church’s mission in the modern world.
Practical Applications
- Personal Edification: Praying in tongues deepens intimacy with God and strengthens the spirit, enabling believers to experience His presence in profound ways.
- Evangelistic Impact: Tongues can serve as a sign to unbelievers, demonstrating God’s power and presence in a way that transcends human understanding.
- Congregational Worship: When interpreted, tongues edify the entire body of Christ, fostering unity and spiritual growth.
Conclusion
The gift of speaking in tongues is a powerful and diverse expression of the Holy Spirit’s work in the Church. While it has been a source of controversy, it should never divide believers or distract us from our primary mission: to love God, love one another, and make disciples of all nations. As we continue to explore this gift, may we do so with humility, love, and a focus on glorifying God. By embracing the gift of tongues with understanding and balance, the Church can experience a deeper move of the Holy Spirit that transforms lives and advances His kingdom.
Is Speaking in Tongues a Sign of Being Baptized in the Holy Spirit?
Many believe that speaking in tongues is evidence of receiving the baptism of the holy spirit, while others argue that it is just one of many possible signs. The Bible describes instances where believers spoke in tongues, but some experience the baptism of the holy spirit without manifesting this specific gift.
Share On Pinterest!
Related Posts
Why a Pastor Says Standing With Israel Means Bracing for Spiritual Battle
Last updated: June 2026 By Duke Taber A growing number of believers are discovering that publicly supporting Israel now invites real opposition, and one pastor is…
Jun 23, 2026
America's 10 Most Impactful Spiritual Awakenings That Shaped a Nation
Last updated: June 2026 For centuries, spiritual awakenings have shaped the very fabric of American society, influencing everything from social reform to national identity. Long before…
Jun 19, 2026
What Does It Mean to Live Under Grace?
Last updated: June 2026 By Duke Taber There is a particular kind of tiredness that does not come from working too hard at your job or…
Jun 18, 2026
What to Expect When Visiting a Church
Last updated: June 2026 By Pastor Duke Taber You have been thinking about it for a while. Maybe you drove past the building a dozen times…
Jun 25, 2026
By
