What does "speak in new tongues" mean for modern Christians in Mark 16:17? Setting the Context Mark 16:17: “And these signs will accompany those who believe: In My name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues;” • Jesus lists “new tongues” among the supernatural signs that would follow believers after His resurrection and ascension. • The verse comes just before the Great Commission (Mark 16:15), showing a missional setting—God empowering His people to proclaim the gospel. Defining “New Tongues” • “Tongues” (Greek: glōssa) literally means “languages.” • “New” points to speech the speaker has not learned naturally—an ability supplied by the Holy Spirit. • Scripture indicates two expressions: – Unlearned human languages used evangelistically (Acts 2:4-11). – Spirit-given utterance directed to God, sometimes requiring interpretation for the church’s edification (1 Corinthians 14:2, 13). Biblical Evidence of the Gift 1. Pentecost, Jerusalem (Acts 2:1-11) – The Spirit enables the disciples to declare “the wonders of God” in languages understood by visitors from many nations. 2. Household of Cornelius, Caesarea (Acts 10:44-46) – Gentile believers spontaneously speak in tongues, confirming to Jewish Christians that God grants them salvation. 3. Disciples of John, Ephesus (Acts 19:1-7) – After receiving the Spirit, they speak in tongues and prophesy. 4. Corinthian church (1 Corinthians 12–14) – Tongues listed among ongoing spiritual gifts; guidelines established for orderly use in worship. Purpose Behind the Gift • Sign authenticating the gospel’s advance (Mark 16:20; Hebrews 2:3-4). • Tool for cross-cultural evangelism when God chooses (Acts 2:6-8). • Means of personal prayer and praise (1 Corinthians 14:2, 4). • Edification of the gathered church when interpretation is provided (1 Corinthians 14:5, 27-28). Guidelines for Use Today • Not every believer will speak in tongues (1 Corinthians 12:29-30). • Expression must align with biblical order: – Two or three speakers at most, in turn, with interpretation (1 Corinthians 14:27-28). – Always build up the body, never distract or confuse (1 Corinthians 14:12, 40). • Must affirm Jesus as Lord and uphold sound doctrine (1 John 4:1-3; 1 Corinthians 12:3). • Should never be treated as a badge of spirituality; love is the higher way (1 Corinthians 13:1-2). Takeaways for Today’s Believers • “New tongues” refers to Spirit-empowered speech God may still grant for gospel witness and worship. • The gift remains under the Spirit’s sovereign distribution and biblical parameters. • Believers are free to seek every good gift (1 Corinthians 14:1) while cherishing unity and order in the church. • Whether or not one speaks in tongues, the central call is to proclaim Christ, love one another, and rely on the Spirit’s power in every aspect of life and ministry. |
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