Speaking in tongues is a very tricky topic because of the nature of the word tongues.  It has been given many interpretations and can really confuse people who wish to study this topic.  I recollect growing up and a church my parents visited had people speaking in unknown tongues. So, what does the Bible say about speaking in tongues?

They were spinning around uncontrollably, and really appearing to be entranced by a spirit or ghost. It was even taught that one could not be saved unless they were able to speak in tongues. This definitely scared me greatly because in my young mind, there was no way I was going to do that (speak in tongues in front of people).

I did not feel it in me to do it even behind closed doors. Also, I did not feel closer to God by doing that; I actually felt fine where I was at. Nevertheless, this is a greatly debated topic and I wish to clear the matter a bit through edification of the scriptures.

What Does the Bible say About Speaking in Tongues

In the bible, tongues has been used multiple times and many times the meaning varies. In Isaiah 28 verses 11, it is said that God will speak to His people with stammering lips and another tongue. Jesus knew He would send His children, Israel, into captivity all over the world. From this He knew He would have to speak to them in another language.

The language or tongue of the country they were driven to. In this example the word tongue refers to language.  Paul says in 1^st Corinthians chapter 14 verses 5, he wishes everyone spoke in prophecy (scriptures) rather than in tongues (phrases that men do not understand).

Speaking in tongues (in this sense) does not profit man unless it is interpreted (verses 2). When someone speaks in tongues as in the “babbling” often displayed in the churches, Paul says that such person is only edifying themselves and not the Church.

Speak that which profits and edifies another!

Furthermore, Paul says if he speaks (and this would include us today), in an unknown tongue how will it profit anyone? The only thing that will profit someone is revelations from God; prophesying, doctrine, and knowledge (v6). We should not write or speak words that cannot be understood.

If I type “iadkaidal, daoidkadd adkfald ,adiadlkd,” and do not explain what it is I typed, what did it profit you? Nothing! This is the other way tongues in mentioned in the bible. It is in the sense of “babbling” and not being understood.

The other meaning is as a language such as English, Spanish, French, and Latin. One reason Paul became the apostle to the Gentiles is because he spoke many tongues (languages) as he mentions in verses 18. This allowed him to speak to many people!

Babbling!

Speaking in tongues then refers to language and/or “babbling,” which is confusion. So should we today participate in speaking in tongues as in filled with the Holy Spirit? We already do one, which is language. What about the other?

I would say it can be done, but one should be explain or interpret what they are saying for the people to be edified. Ultimately, speaking in tongues is a big sign. Paul shows us that tongues (as in babbling) is a sign for those who do not believe.

Most people who need to see or speak in an unknown tongue that only God can discern do not believe in God. They need to see something amazing in order to be convinced of God. Paul writes that the Word of God is not enough for these people.

Not a Real Problem Among Israel

Paul seems to be the only one to talk about the subject. This suggest to me that it was or is a topic that was brought forth by Gentiles. Israel never seem to have a problem with it. Peter and the apostles never devoted time to the speaking in tongues topic to the lost tribes of Israel .

This is possibly pagan origin of service to a false god and was brought over by Gentiles and other nations as they converted. It was then made into a topic for Paul to handle. However, in my conclusion Paul appears to be kindly telling people not to speak in tongues.

I did not address the Acts chapter 2 Pentecost speaking in tongues, because it is a great and detailed subject and it pertains to language and not babbling. I hope this answers the speaking in tongues question, I hope this article has helped your perspective on speaking in tongues and what the bible says about it.

God bless you and keep you in all Holy ways in Jesus name.  Amen

Selah

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