(sorry about the pic – couldn’t resist)
Let me start by reiterating: I’m NOT a Bible scholar.
With that said, I have strong thoughts concerning gifts of the Holy Spirit. My spiritual journey has brought me through some interesting encounters with certain manifestations of the Holy Spirit – both genuine and counterfeit. I have felt the exquisite, supernatural presence of God and I have witnessed the manufactured, manipulating attempts of paltry schemers.
Take a look at the first part of chapter 12 where Paul is teaching the church at Corinth about spiritual gifts:
4 Now there are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but it is the same Holy Spirit who is the source of them all. 5 There are different kinds of service in the church, but it is the same Lord we are serving. 6 There are different ways God works in our lives, but it is the same God who does the work through all of us. 7 A spiritual gift is given to each of us as a means of helping the entire church. 8 To one person the Spirit gives the ability to give wise advice; to another he gives the gift of special knowledge. 9 The Spirit gives special faith to another, and to someone else he gives the power to heal the sick. 10 He gives one person the power to perform miracles, and to another the ability to prophesy. He gives someone else the ability to know whether it is really the Spirit of God or another spirit that is speaking. Still another person is given the ability to speak in unknown languages, and another is given the ability to interpret what is being said. 11 It is the one and only Holy Spirit who distributes these gifts. He alone decides which gift each person should have.
Paul’s teaching here is on the importance of the variety of gifts to get the job done in the church (the body of Christ). He goes on to explain:
12 The human body has many parts, but the many parts make up only one body. So it is with the body of Christ. 13 Some of us are Jews, some are Gentiles, some are slaves, and some are free. But we have all been baptized into Christ’s body by one Spirit, and we have all received the same Spirit. 14 Yes, the body has many different parts, not just one part. 15 If the foot says, “I am not a part of the body because I am not a hand,” that does not make it any less a part of the body. 16 And if the ear says, “I am not part of the body because I am only an ear and not an eye,” would that make it any less a part of the body? 17 Suppose the whole body were an eye then how would you hear? Or if your whole body were just one big ear, how could you smell anything? 18 But God made our bodies with many parts, and he has put each part just where he wants it. 19 What a strange thing a body would be if it had only one part! 20 Yes, there are many parts, but only one body. 21 The eye can never say to the hand, “I don’t need you.” The head can’t say to the feet, “I don’t need you.” 22 In fact, some of the parts that seem weakest and least important are really the most necessary. 23 And the parts we regard as less honorable are those we clothe with the greatest care. So we carefully protect from the eyes of others those parts that should not be seen, 24 while other parts do not require this special care. So God has put the body together in such a way that extra honor and care are given to those parts that have less dignity. 25 This makes for harmony among the members, so that all the members care for each other equally. 26 If one part suffers, all the parts suffer with it, and if one part is honored, all the parts are glad. 27 Now all of you together are Christ’s body, and each one of you is a separate and necessary part of it.
What a brilliant analogy. Like our own human bodies, the church needs properly functioning “body parts” in order to accomplish what is it meant to accomplish. It’s easy to understand that our bodies do not function as well without eyes, for example. Kind of like a church without a vision. Our human bodies would not function as well without feet or hands – as a church would not function properly without volunteers to serve inside the church and to go out into the community and serve there.
Lastly, Paul gives some instruction regarding the ranking of members (or “parts”) God has placed in the body:
28 Here is a list of some of the members that God has placed in the body of Christ: first are apostles, second are prophets, third are teachers, then those who do miracles, those who have the gift of healing, those who can help others, those who can get others to work together, those who speak in unknown languages. 29 Is everyone an apostle? Of course not. Is everyone a prophet? No. Are all teachers? Does everyone have the power to do miracles? 30 Does everyone have the gift of healing? Of course not. Does God give all of us the ability to speak in unknown languages? Can everyone interpret unknown languages? No! 31 And in any event, you should desire the most helpful gifts.
Do you notice Paul’s emphasis on the fact that everyone has different gifts? I am amazed at how people can still insist that to be saved or “filled with the Holy Spirit” you MUST speak in tongues. Why then would Paul say, “Does God give all of us the ability to speak in unknown languages? Can everyone interpret unknown languages? No!”
This must be why Paul spends much of chapter 14 in 1 Corinthians talking about the gift of tongues – but I’m getting ahead of myself.
Did you know that the belief that speaking in tongues is a manifestation of salvation is a relatively new phenomenon? Vinson Synan, Ph.D who is now dean of the school of Divinity at Regent University researched and wrote about the modern Pentecostal movement. Dr. Synan writes, “The first person to be baptized in the Holy Spirit accompanied by speaking in tongues was Agnes Ozman, one of Parham’s Bible School students, who spoke in tongues on the very first day of the new century, January 1, 1901”. So baptism of the Holy Spirit as the modern Pentecostals define it is not known historically in Christendom.
And, since we’re on the subject, my research has shown me (and the Holy Spirit confirmed within me) that:
- No one can say that “Jesus is Lord” except that the Holy Spirit draw them
- At the point of salvation, a person claims Jesus as Lord (see Romans 10:9)
- Once saved, we become part of the corporate “body of Christ” through baptism of the Holy Spirit (see verse 13 above)
- Baptism of the Holy Spirit happens only once (see Ephesians 4:5)
I also believe that the indwelling or filling of the Holy Spirit can happen (needs to happen) continuously. The Holy Spirit can at different times fill us with His power to specifically accomplish tasks or to help us in our witness (as shown in Luke 1:15, Luke 1:67, Acts 2:4, Acts 4:8, Acts 9:17 and others) Paul himself was filled with the Spirit in Acts 9:17 and again in Acts 13:9.
Does every Christian speak in tongues? I say that’s a lot of “bull.” (reference to image above, of course – see how it fits?)
Lots of great stuff in this chapter. We’ve only scratched the surface today. Just remember, God is not the author of confusion. Sometimes our own desires and selfish motives give us a “different” perspective on things. It’s human nature. We all want to be known as super-spiritual or gifted in certain ways. But, only the Holy Spirit is able to distribute the gifts as He sees fit.
Press on!
peace,
e
GraceWalk 
#1 by Ellen on February 29, 2008 - 6:44 pm
Thank You!..that is brilliant!..i appreciate the time you took to get that all together..so many people are told that if they don’t speak in tongues, they’re not saved..my goodness, that would be awful..I know someone who needs to be encouraged right now and I’m going to send this article off to her..thanks again and God Bless You!..Ellen
#2 by Valery on July 14, 2008 - 9:24 pm
I believe that you did a fairly good job in your point of view. However, i believe you are getting the “prayer language” speaking in tongues used to build up oneself mixed up with the “gift of tongues” which is used for the edification of the church. please do a little more research on this matter and make any changes if you so see fit. thanks.
#3 by Jaqua (Jāy 'Quāy) on July 15, 2008 - 8:36 am
Thanks for your response, Valery. My only point is that speaking in tongues is not a requirement for salvation. I stand by my research. I did not address the issue of prayer language in this post.
#4 by Nathan on July 29, 2008 - 12:12 am
I agree to an extent. The gift of tongues and a prayer language in different tongues are two different things. The gift of tongues is spoken before a group of christians and then interpreted. A prayer language is for personal edification.
This is where I disagree:
Concerning the prayer language- Would God give this edification tool only to some of His children? I don’t believe so. I believe all christians have access to this gift, as well as all gifts that God offers his children.
But thats for each christian to work out with the Lord. It is by no means a requirement for salvation. I don’t suppose the thief on the cross started shouting in tongues before his death, and Christ said that he would be with Him in paradise. But from personally experience, I can say that it is a valuable gift!
God is good.
#5 by Jaqua (Jāy 'Quāy) on July 29, 2008 - 7:56 am
Nathan:
I understand what you’re saying, and I like your approach. It is for each Christian to work out.
As for the comment about “why would God give this edification tool only to some of His children?”, well why would God choose to give any particular gift to some and not to others. I know some who think they have a gift for singing, but when they try, it’s obvious they do not. Why would some have a gift for teaching and not others? I’m not sure I follow your logic.
My only point with this post has to do with the false teaching that one WILL speak in tongues if they have received the Holy Spirit. I think scripture is very clear on that not being the case.
#6 by Jonathan on February 22, 2010 - 10:59 am
@Nathan – there does seem to be a difference between speaking in tongues as edification between you and the Lord and the gift of speaking in tongues in a public setting.
@Jaqua – along your logic regarding gifts of singing: yes, some have the public gift of singing, yet we are all commanded to sing praises in scripture. Again, this is just a difference between intimate, private worship to God and public building up of the body. I think there is a difference between private edification of a prayer language that is available to any believer. However, the gift of publicly edifying the church by speaking in tongues is an exclusive gift, like teaching.
Also, I do agree that the false teaching that every Christian SHOULD speak in tongues, even in regards to a prayer language….bad teaching and it only brings condemnation. It should be taught that if you ask, expect, because your Father in heaven knows what you need before you ask him. If a prayer language will bring you closer to your Father in heaven, then ask! YEAH!
#7 by Sally on June 29, 2010 - 12:01 am
But where in the Bible does it talk about having a “prayer language”? I have heard preachers say “baptism in the Holy Spirit with evidence of speaking in tongues” Why are tongues the evidence of the Holy Spirit? I just can’t seem to find where it says that we all can speak in tongues as our own little prayer language to God. I believe in the gift that edifies the church, and I see how that is biblical, but I don’t see how a separate “prayer language” is biblical. If somebody knows, please let me know.
#8 by Chriscilla on September 26, 2010 - 8:37 pm
Mark 16 16-18
16Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. 17And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; 18they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.”
It says that these signs will accompany. I do not have the answers, to why I to don’t speak in tongues, but I do know that God has his reasons and that is good enough for me. I shall not bend and pretend to speak it. I shall stand for the fact that God gives according to His will.
#9 by will, asimpleservant of God. on May 30, 2011 - 5:25 pm
I UNDERSTAND, WHEN WE SEE IN MARK-16:17- “AND THEY SHALL SPEAK WITH NEW TONGUES”. THAT IT MAY ALSO BE GOOD FOR US TO LOOK AT 2 CORINTHIANS-5: 17- ” THEREFORE IF ANY MAN BE IN CHRIST, HE IS A NEW CREATURE: OLD THINGS ARE PASSED AWAY; BEHOLD, ALL THINGS ARE BECOME NEW”. WHEN THE LORD CAME INTO MY LIFE, I DID NOT DO THE THINGS THAT I DID BEFORE. I DID NOT SPEAK ABOUT THE SAME THINGS THAT I DID BEFORE. NEW TONGUES MAY NOT MEAN A DIFFERENT LANGUAGE. I PRAY THAT I CLICKED ON THE RIGHT REPLY BUTTON FOR THE RIGHT PERSON”. IF YOU WERE NOT THE ONE THAT ASKED THIS QUESTION, PLEASE FORGIVE ME. MAY GOD BLESS US ALL WITH HIS WORD. LOVE, will, a simple servant of GOD. MY EMAIL IS asimpleservant@hotmail.com
#10 by Jethro on October 24, 2010 - 3:27 pm
I dont think every Spirit filled Christian has to speak in tongues because paul clearly states that we are gifted differently. If not, then u have to have all that’s said by Jesus; ” drive out demons; speak in new tongues;pick up snakes with their hands; drink deadly poison, and not get hurt at all; place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.” Tell me u got all this package, if not, why?
#11 by Peter on August 18, 2012 - 10:37 am
I agree with you br Jethro…..Rom 8:1 says that there is therefore no condemnation to those that are in Christ…..everyone of us should just strive to press on according to the measure of faith that we’ve received, careful enough not to stumble along the way simply because of these elementary principles (Heb6:1ff)…..for we have such as do speak in other tounges amongst us but the fruits thereof are ???…..however if there be anything worthwhile mentioning as far as this subject is concerned, it shuld be Gal 5:22-24….i.e. Whether speaking in other tounges or not, are we in a position to execute the requirements of Gal 5:22-24?…..Shalom!!!
#12 by Asyria Hilliard on October 27, 2010 - 5:50 pm
This was a great help. Many times people believe that when they are saved then they are suppose to be able to speak in tongues. I am glad that someone out there is willing to state their opinion and back it up with scriptures because with out the scriptures we know it is just pride. Thanks again.
Be Blessed.
#13 by Jake A on November 1, 2010 - 10:50 pm
Just thought I’d throw something out there. As a preliminary example, all throughout the Bible, healing is talked about as a free gift as part of the atonement, meaning it is given to every person who truly believes in God. Healing is, matter of factly, promised to all believers. How, then, can Christians die or be crippled with arthritis or other diseases? My point is, human logic cannot figure out God’s divine plan. There is always a much bigger picture than we can see or even comprehend. Written to those who believe the Holy Spirit comes upon Baptism, and namely those who did not receive the gift of tongues upon Baptism of the Holy Spirit.
From how I see it, some receive tongues upon Baptism of the Holy Spirit but most do not. In 1 Corinthians 14:5, Paul mentions how he wishes each of the believers spoke in tongues. This implies there were believers who did not speak in tongues at the time (including those baptized in the Holy Spirit). Yes, speaking in tongues is incredibly valuable and builds a person up in a supernatural way, but should not be an indicator as to if someone is a Christ follower. I also believe that if a person pursues God and the incredibly important gifts, tongues will come – even if it takes years. God wants for his children to be edified and for everything to work for their ultimate good, but only He knows the correct timing.
The main problem I see with speaking in tongues as a requirement is that people will falsify the gift. I went through this growing up in an Assemblies of God church. I desired greatly the gift of speaking in another language. The pastors mentioned just letting it flow from my mouth, but I now see this as being doctrinally incorrect. Speaking in tongues is a gift from God, not something created by man, and neither speaking in tongues nor in a prayer language should never be forced nor created. Often it takes patience and a sincere heart for a period of time before God will grant you this gift, but a person should never try to create this on their own or they will be mislead and disappointed.
If anyone believes tongues should come with the Baptism, any verses would be of great help as I’m still trying to understand this belief’s background 🙂
Thank you for your article! I love that good lookin cow 😉
#14 by Richard on November 2, 2010 - 10:52 am
Could you explain just what Paul means in 1 Corinthians, chapter 14 verses 26 to 28? Thank you
#15 by jc on November 14, 2010 - 4:28 am
God does not favor people who speak in tongues. Quit playing church rise above the noise. Listen to what God says in his word let Him speak to you. Be silent in His presence so we may hear what He has to say. Many people have wisdom but no love, many people have knowledge but no love. Love is the key to communicating to God. God is not interested in your motions. Do you love God or do you not? Simple question. Is He your savior or is He not? Hot or cold? Make believe is luke warm, you cant serve two masters. All the worlds theology is no good to God. Pray to the lord your God in heaven. If you dont know what to say the Holy spirit will pray for you. All communication is important to God. We all have the Holy spirit left by Jesus before he asended. How will you use it? there are different gifts. No not all spoke in tongues in Pauls day. Rise above the noise. Test the Spirit Dont argue and murmur. What does the word say? You are Gods favorite child because he loves us all.
#16 by jc on November 14, 2010 - 4:41 am
Hey moderator please don’t blot out the truth. let it all be known That satan tries to to make us feel bad about ourselves as of unworthy to be in Gods family. When Christ died for us and covered us with His blood we all became worthy of his presence and his family. That is a fact. So if there is any doubt in your mind whether you are worthy of Gods love. Well you are. Dont let doctrine and theoretical junk get in your way. Just read the word repent. We must die to ourselves daily. God loves you all.
#17 by Mrs.Wright on December 27, 2010 - 8:59 pm
God word is simple and should not be argued or debated.
#18 by Sives Mbanugo on June 14, 2011 - 12:12 am
Thank God! Now i now the truth about tongue speaking. I would want to force it, but now, i will have to let God decide.
#19 by Leonora Troyano on August 5, 2011 - 8:23 am
Thank you for the sensible critique. Me & my neighbor were just preparing to do a little research on this. We got a grab a book from our local library but I think I learned more from this post. I’m very glad to see such great info being shared freely out there.
#20 by steve on January 6, 2012 - 1:47 pm
I realize people have different backgrounds which effect personal opinions. In my own life I was raised by christians who not only embraced the gifts of the Holy Spirit but encouraged them. We see that in 1st Cor 14 to desire the spiritual gifts. However growing up I began to realize many churches who claim to be open to embrace spiritual gifts often have leaders which seldom or never function in gifts. Why, I think for many reasons but the fact is often they are soul heavy and spirit light. We can memorize the whole bible and still not know who God the Holy Spirit truly is. For example read Jesus and Nicodemus in John 3. Anyway even though I grew up in a Spirit filled home you might say where gifts were common. I never received salvation until almost 20. A week later I asked my mother who was also an evangelist and teacher about the baptism in the Holy Spirit with tongues. She said its biblical and you need to ask the Lord Jesus for that experience. I agreed and began to worship our Lord and within about 10 min began to speak in tongues. At first it was like jibberish but It was not just mental gymnastics or mind over matter, but kind of like from a place of deep love towards Jesus and yielding I began to feel a kind of river wanting to gush from my inside. I kept praising Jesus then at first a bit reluctantly spoke words which made no sense to me. But I felt the words coming up from somewhere not my soul alone. The fact is I know it is often referred to being a personal prayer language which edifies or builds us. Check out Jude, in where it states we build ourselves up in the most Holy Faith. I believe this is tongues , and its like recharging our spiritual battery in a sense. I do honestly believe it can be given to those who truly seek , desire , trust and have faith in Gods word being the same now as during the time of those early disciples.
My personal background is that 35 years ago I received the gift with strong evidence and have continued the last 35 years to grow in the tongues and often even have diverse tongues sounding like other languages , usually when I am in prayer or worship to our Lord. I have had other gifts operate in me as well and I know it is not just for personal edification alone but to build up the body with various applications. The Holy Spirit can be quenched the bible says also. And in 2nd Timothy 3 we see an interesting point by Paul to Timothy in that he says some have a form of Godliness but deny the power, and then he says stay away from them. Perhaps Paul is talking about those groups who have stated tongues and gifts all stopped or are no longer the same. If that is possible people who try to box God in their little ideas will have to face God later and give and account for reluctance to move into and desire the supernatural gifts of the Holy Spirit. I can only say it is not me alone but the Holy Spirit working through my life. I was trained as a medical doctor and strongly believe that tongues and other gifts mentioned in the word are real as much today as in the days of the Apostles. Anyway the real key is faith and trust of the word. You must believe and not fill your mind with doubts , or unbelief or no desire. I also believe after seeing many people receive this gift that God the Holy Spirit will give them if they desire still many are locked in their minds and perhaps will sadly never receive what God wants to give them. Then it also can require a bit of diligence or perhaps for some even seeking God for the gift. It comes from the Spirit and when its truly on you it bubbles out of you like the bible indicates, similar to a river. You can shut it down or off just as you can quit talking in a normal language when every you want. As Paul stated he wished all spoke in tongues. Truly I believe it has nothing to do with God but man. Man often does not receive from Gods table of gifts because of negative or critical analysis or fear of the unknown. This is a supernatural event which takes faith. Anyway God loves you and the Same Holy Spirit is active today I truly believe. When Paul says do all speak in tongues , which indicates no they do not I believe another way to look at this is not that God does not want it but because our will is involved and God does not override it.
By the way I have worked 20 years as a doctor in the states and was taught to be a critical thinker but realized when we accept spiritual gifts faith is required on our part , currently working the last 11 years in Asia in which 5-6 is now full time living and teaching many asian people regarding this same Holy Spirits work. However , everywhere I go I find those who actually believe the gifts have stopped and for the most part usually they are correct in that they have predetermined they have stopped and so they get what they believe. This is what is called a self fulfilling prophecy. We forget that God is the same yesterday, today and forever. Why would He say wait for the promise of the Father in Acts 1, the baptism of the Holy Spirit with tongues and then 120 were filled and spoke, then in the same chapter vs 9 when He ascended to heaven decide to change His mind . This would suggest alone our God is inconsistent . The sad and true fact is God truly has many gifts He wants us to have but we often refuse because of doubts , fear, unbelief or some leader who has never spoke in tongues or operated in gifts told you they were not for today, God bless you.
#21 by Anonymous on November 17, 2012 - 2:37 am
So do you feel that we have to deal in tongues as evidence of the Holy Spirit??
#22 by Roz on January 15, 2012 - 11:26 pm
Please read Acts 2:4 FIRST then Acts 2:38
And thy were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the spirit gave them utterance.
Then Peter said to unto them, Repent, and be baptized everyone of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall recieve the Gift of the Holy Ghost.
The Holy Ghost allows all to receive the gift of speaking in tongues. You only read and research 1 Corinthians…research further..
You see it is not only a gift but a promise to all: Acts 2:39
For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. So this means people within the generations through seed.
I feel if your going to blog speak on it all not just in portion of the bible.
#23 by J on March 13, 2012 - 12:52 am
The promise mentioned in Acts 2:39 is specifically referring to the gift of the Holy Spirit. It does not directly mention speaking in tongues, although it may be inferred. The greatest evidence I have seen for this doctrine specifically is that you see a commonality among the early church that many spoke in tongues. Personally, I feel as if every single Bible-believing individual should be able to speak in tongues. As with practically every portion of the Bible, it is activated through faith. A gift is offered, but must be received. It must also be opened and utilized instead of sitting on the mantle.(I really like what you said about this Steve! All too often, our minds get in the way of many things of God because we can’t wrap our minds around them. IE, healing, prophecy, etc. However, if it is in the written Word of God, it should be trusted above our own untrustworthy thinking and logic).
I have heard it said that Speaking in Tongues is similar to the verbal confession of faith needed for salvation as stated in Romans 10:9-10. The difference in this, however, is that the confession of faith is spoken completely on the individual’s part, although nobody comes to the father except for those He draws. Speaking in tongues is more of a releasing of one’s inhibitions and speaking as the Spirit gives utterance. The source does not come from the conscious, but from the subconscious.
Personally, I have not seen substantial evidence to promote believing that speaking in tongues is a requirement for the gift of the Holy Spirit. This does not mean I am against, or that I am for this idea. I just need to see in the Word where it is enforced rather than just from mankind’s speculation (His ways are indeed higher than our ways after all)
@Roz: Could you explain better what areas of 1 Corinthians to study out and go more in-depth? It would be very helpful to have more specific guidance in this area. Would be greatly appreciated!
#24 by terry1954 on April 11, 2012 - 6:52 pm
i have or had until today a friend that accused me of not being a true christian because i can not speak in tongues. i have been prayed over and have tried several times in my life, but it just doesn’t happen. i also take care of my brother who has multiple medical issues. this friend told me that god won’t bring peace to my brother because i do not have enough faith. this made me feel horrible. i am not perfect, for sure, but i have always been sure of the fact, that I love god, i have accepted him. i try to live for his good, and i talk to him often. now i am all shook up, as wondering if i am even a christian at all. this friend has decided i am not good enough to speak to anymore,so the friendship is over since i don’t speak in tongues
#25 by Anonymous on August 21, 2012 - 4:02 am
Dang man I’m sorry your friend spoke so harshly to you about something he is so ignorant about. I hope you read some of the scripture and comments that were posted about speaking in tongues. Nowhere does it say speaking in tongues is necessary for salvation. And about what your “friend” said in regards to your brother, well that’s simply unbiblical in so many ways. I’ll be praying for you and your bro. As tough as it may be, you just need to pray for the person that said those totally wrong things about you, and forgive him or her for the hurtful words. God Bless.
#26 by terry1954 on August 27, 2012 - 3:49 pm
i understand. i read in the bible that some are gifted with speaking in tongues, but not everyone can do it, and it is not a requirement for salvation. i did pray for the person who told me this, but after all this time there is no speaking between the two of us, so i moved on
#27 by Tracey p on May 23, 2012 - 9:35 am
Terry be encouraged in the lord. Many people’s understanding of God’s word differ for various reasons. Just remember that God’s word is NOT contradictory. If someone says something that goes against any part of God’s word, then what that person says is wrong even if they have all confidence that they are right. They are confident, but they are wrong! How do you know you are saved? The word of God says that those who confess with their mouth and believe with their HEART that Jesus died on the cross and rose again 3 days later are saved. It did not say those who speak in tongues are saved. It doesn’t measure how strong or how much person faith is by their ability or inability to speak in tongues does it? The answer is NO. A lot of emphasis is put on speaking in tongues here, but where is the emphasis on studying the word of God, testing the spirit to see if it is of God, and trusting in the lord with all ur heart, mind, & soul? The word of God mentions in Galations 5:22+ that the working of the spirit ( that is the results or fruit of the spirit) is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, & long suffering/self control. These are the moral character traits developed by the holy spirit (Christlike character). These result of living & being led by the spirit. That being said, the genuineness of God’s followers would be demonstrated by good fruit from their lives and the presence of the spirit and communion with him produces the fruit of love & obedience (john 14-16, Matthew 7:16-20, Luke 13:6-9) love is the expression of faith ( vs 6 of gal. 5). Notice these qualities in comparison of how god defines love in 1st Corinthians 13. Hence scripture that states they they will know u by ur love ( Christian’s identifying mark is evidenced by their love lived out). So if ur friend judges ur faith by ur lack of speaking in tongue just pray that god gives her knowledge, understanding, and wisdom along with a clean heart & strong genuine faith. Notice these qualities are come from the heart and is not centered around a person demonstrating to others anything & the person does not get the credit. In other words it is not self seeking. But a person’s desire to receive a particular gift can be self seeking by unrighteousness motives. You r not confused lie u may think. U know u love god & u desire to please him. That is what u should desire.
#28 by Anonymous on May 30, 2012 - 10:44 pm
Thanks for clearing up this misconception. Since i got saved in Jesus i have been praying 2 the Lord to help me to speaking in tongues but i never did until nw.
#29 by fefee on June 2, 2012 - 1:10 pm
Can anyone explain to me why at the beginning!! When the Apostles as well as the other 300-400 people were in the Upper Room why they began to speak in OTHER TONGUES!! NOT UNKNOWN TONGUES!! This is evidence!! EVIDENCE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT!! It is written! Why are people disputing this!! Acts 2:2 [4] And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. Acts 10: 41 [44] While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word.
[45] And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost.
[46] For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. …So again?! How can you dismiss this?! This is evidence of you receiving the HOLY SPIRIT!! Which gives you power over sin and strength in your daily walk!! All you have to do is seek the Lord for it …which is also written as well
#30 by BonLydia on September 5, 2012 - 10:32 am
Acts 2: 38
38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.
40 And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation.
41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
3000 were saved and received the Holy Spirit and did not speak in tongues on that same day. Speaking in tongues is not evidence of the Holy Spirit.
@Steve Question: If you repent of your sins and don’t speak in tongues until a week later, what kept you saved for that week?
#31 by Anonymous on June 4, 2012 - 8:47 am
Please do not fell this way. Everyone does not speak in tongues who is a Christian. Tongues is just one of many gifts that the Holy Spirit allocates to us. We all have DIFFERENT gifts. Pray for your friend that they may know the truth. I was in a Holiness church years ago and the believed in their doctorine that all Christians who are filled with the Holy Spirit must speak in tongues.
#32 by Anonymous on July 7, 2012 - 12:11 pm
Speaking in tongues is “1” of the many gifts of God to edify the church! Anyone who teaches that Christians MUST speak in tongues to be filled has partial understanding of the glory of God. The problem within the Christian church is people not understanding their roles. Everyone wants to be the Pastor. In this case, if God does not give the gift it is ok to tarry but to charge everyone who does not possess the quality of speaking in tongues is a Pharisaic philosophy…
#33 by Raph on September 9, 2012 - 12:19 pm
Weldone! While trying to explain the issue as non compulsary which in the process might have discouraraged some of our brothers who might have been earnestly desiring to have this gift, you shuld have also enphasized on its necesity. The fact that no one can get it on his own does not also rule it out that God will not give to him that asks of Him if He wishes. Paul simply puts ‘i wish u all speak in toungues’ which shows a degree of importance. May the Lord our great Teacher teach us better so that we will not regret over all theses at the last day IJN. I love all.
#34 by Simone on October 17, 2012 - 4:05 am
Thank you for this… I jus finished reading about the gifts of the spirit and thought to research a little more and i came across this. through my years of bein saved, I’ve always felt that I wasn’t a true Christian because I never spoke in tounges but I see now that everyone has their own gifts which are lead by the Holy Spirt. Thanking God for revealing this to me.
#35 by Edith on October 17, 2012 - 11:34 pm
I thank God I came across this wonderful explanation about tongues. My church teaches and force people to speak in tongues. I’m convinced it is not my calling to speak in tongues. What bothers me the church force us to do this as if u are not a full christian if u can’t speak in tongues. I’m worried this will affect my spirituality and commitment in God’s work because i also have to teach people what I don’t support. I believe that speaking in unknown language is a gift from God not taught, its automatic if u are the chosen.
#36 by James on February 25, 2013 - 6:44 pm
There is only one gift that Jesus said that all would receive when the Holy Spirit had come upon them and it is listed in Acts 1:8. “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.(KJV)
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”(NLT)
So when I am baptized in accordance to what Jesus said in Matthew 28:19, the baptism means that I belong to the Father, are saved by the Son, and indwelt by the Holy Spirit. As soon as this happens, I have the power to witness for Christ. No other scripture says “Shall” (will, must, used to express what is inevitable, etc…). “shall receive power…shall be witnesses…”Speaking in tongues is evidence but not “proof.” The proof that you have the Holy Spirit…you are witnessing for Christ. God bless!
P.S. I am not saying that being baptized in the name of Jesus is wrong.
#37 by kingintraining on March 6, 2013 - 8:36 am
Yup – great post, totally agree. And love the cow 😀
#38 by Anonymous on August 26, 2013 - 4:24 pm
you see the enemy or the inner -me has Christians right where he wants us covetousness over someone else’s gift. I believe that speaking in a new tongue is being transformed by the renewing of your mind, putting of old things and walk in the newness of life.by Christ Jesus. When we truly walk after the Lord we truly change our language. remember every good gift comes from the Lord, the Lord is in total control of this walk with Him, there are some who go to school to speak in tongues I’m not knocking anyone but the word of God says that our work will all be tried by the fire. You did all these works in my name and yet you are none of mine. what happened to your love. not the fleshly love of a seen gesture but what happened to the love when you were by your self and you harbored hate in your heart, you talked about the other race who receives government assistance, or even the many times you walk down the street and Never spoke! You don’t glorify God by what have or what title you hold, but you allow the Holy Spirit to take residence in side of you by allowing the love of God to flow through you. then when the Lord has searched your heart and received our repentance from a self righteous behavior than will we be able to teach and draw more souls into the kingdom of God. May the Lord be exalted in earth as He is in heaven. God bless you all.
#39 by Christine on March 4, 2014 - 10:49 pm
Please, let the word interpret the word and not man interpret to for or to you…No not every body speaks in tongues, it is a gift and it’s up to the Holy Spirit to give you, what He choose..Study 1 Corinthians on your own, with the Holy Spirit. You don’t need man to teach you…Another thing, don’t let anyone tell you that you aren’t healed, because you don’t have enough faith…In fact, don’t let any man tell you anything…They are just man and that is all..Go to the Author and when you do, don’t try and put your interpretations to the Holy Spirit…Let the bible speak for itself and keep it in context…This generation has been man taught…Let get Holy Spirit taught and tell the man to sit down…GOD Bless You and Let NO MAN Deceive you..
#40 by Christine on March 4, 2014 - 10:54 pm
Oops, Let’s get Holy Spirit taught…
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#41 by emmanuel nwabuikwu on June 10, 2014 - 7:45 am
I stand with the view that speaking or praying in tongues for personal edification (1Cor. 14:4, 14-15; Rom. 8:26) is different from bringing a message in tongues for corporate edification (1 Cor. 12:10; 14:13). I am convinced that, as the case is with me, every believer has access to what I call “prayerr tongues”, but not all can bring a message in tongues or interpret a message given in tongues. However, it should be obvious to anyone with an open mind that speaking in tongues comes after salvation (Mark 16:17), but is not a prerequisite for it. May the Lord continually enlarge our understanding as we seek Him.
#42 by Robert Arheit Jr on July 6, 2015 - 4:42 pm
One is SAVED by GRACE through FAITH! Period! If it were by the evidence of speaking in tongues it would require NO FAITH at all! One could either know they are saved or NOT by weather they speak in tongues! Speaking in tongues is clearly NOT a requirement for salvation! (It has NOTHING to do with the SIMPLE-SAVING-GOSPEL) The Bible seas Holy Spirit gives the GIFTS as he see’s fit! NOT all have all the GIFTS! To many people are following the words and half-truth doctrines of man-made religion in Jesus’ name! Rather than following the PURE-UNADULTERATED WORD OF GOD HIMSELF! Jesus said FOLLOW ME! NOT man-made religion in my name!
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