How can we discern the appropriate use of tongues in our church today? Foundation Scripture “Tongues, then, are a sign, not for believers but for unbelievers; prophecy, however, is not for unbelievers but for believers.” (1 Corinthians 14:22) Clarifying the Gift • The Spirit distributes gifts “to each one as He determines” (1 Corinthians 12:11). • At Pentecost, tongues functioned as recognizable human languages that declared “the wonders of God” to unbelieving crowds (Acts 2:6–11). • Paul later acknowledges a prayer-language dimension (1 Corinthians 14:2,14), yet keeps the missionary sign firmly in view (v. 21-22, citing Isaiah 28:11-12). Why Tongues Still Matter • God has not revoked any New-Testament gift (Romans 11:29). • Mission fields still benefit when the Lord supernaturally bridges language gaps. • A private prayer tongue can edify the individual (1 Corinthians 14:4) when practiced biblically. Core Principles for Discernment 1. Purpose: Does the expression point unbelievers to Christ? (v. 22) 2. Order: Is it conducted “decently and in order” (1 Corinthians 14:40)? 3. Interpretation: In the gathered church, an interpreter must follow (1 Corinthians 14:27-28). 4. Edification: Does it build up the body more than elevate the speaker? (1 Corinthians 14:12,26) 5. Submission: Are participants willing to be silent if no interpretation emerges? (1 Corinthians 14:28) 6. Testing: “Test the spirits” (1 John 4:1) and “hold fast what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21). Practical Safeguards for the Local Church • Teach regularly on spiritual gifts so the congregation knows Scripture’s boundaries. • Designate leaders to oversee public contributions and ensure interpretation. • Limit the number: “Two—or at most three—should speak in tongues” (1 Corinthians 14:27). • Place the microphone only after interpreter confirmation, avoiding confusion. • Record and review: Elders evaluate whether the message aligns with the gospel. • Encourage private use at home for those with the gift when no interpreter is present. Recognizing Legitimate vs. Misused Tongues Legitimate – Christ-exalting content once interpreted. – Humble demeanor, no spotlight seeking. – Produces conviction or encouragement in listeners (Acts 2:37). Misused – Repetitive babble offered as spectacle. – Ignores scriptural limits, causes disorder. – Lacks interpretation yet continues publicly. Balancing Tongues with Prophecy and Teaching • Paul urges, “I would rather have you prophesy” (1 Corinthians 14:5) because clear instruction benefits believers. • Prophecy strengthens, encourages, and comforts (1 Corinthians 14:3); tongues, when interpreted, can do the same. • A healthy service majors on intelligible Word ministry while allowing room for the Spirit’s signs. Moving Forward Together • Seek earnestly the gifts (1 Corinthians 14:1) but prize love above all (1 Corinthians 13). • Keep Christ’s mission central: tongues are a sign meant to draw outsiders to saving faith. • Trust the Spirit to manifest, guide, and restrain as His Word directs, ensuring our gatherings remain both powerful and orderly. |
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