How can we encourage the use of "interpretation of tongues" in our congregation? Grounding the Gift in Scripture 1 Corinthians 12:10 — “to another speaking in various tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues.” Other anchor texts: - 1 Corinthians 14:5 — “He who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets, so that the church may be edified.” - 1 Corinthians 14:13 — “Therefore, the one who speaks in a tongue should pray that he may interpret.” - 1 Corinthians 14:27-28, 40 — clear guidelines for orderly exercise. Why Interpretation Matters - Translates a Spirit-given utterance so everyone benefits (1 Corinthians 14:5, 12). - Turns what is otherwise private praise into corporate edification (14:16-17). - Affirms the unity of the body: diverse gifts, one purpose (12:7). Lay a Solid Biblical Foundation - Teach through 1 Corinthians 12–14 verse by verse. - Highlight New-Testament examples (Acts 2:11; 10:46; 19:6). - Stress that the gift is God’s idea, rooted in His Word, not a novelty. Pray and Stir Up Expectancy - Encourage members to obey 1 Corinthians 14:1 — “Earnestly pursue love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts.” - Include specific petitions for interpreters in corporate prayer meetings. - Share testimonies of past interpretations to build faith (Psalm 78:4). Create Space in Gatherings - Plan a brief, well-explained window during worship where gifts may flow. - Remind the body of Paul’s limits: “two, or at most three” tongues, “and someone must interpret” (14:27). - Provide a microphone and an elder nearby for accountability and clarity. Equip Potential Interpreters - Host training evenings: - Walk through 1 Corinthians 14:13 — “pray that he may interpret.” - Practice listening to the Spirit, then checking words with Scripture. - Emphasize that interpretation may be thought-for-thought, not word-for-word. - Pair newer believers with mature mentors who already move in the gift. Guardrails for Discernment and Order - Elders weigh every public interpretation (14:29). - Anything contrary to Scripture is set aside immediately (Galatians 1:8). - Keep shepherding gentle: correct in love; encourage continued obedience. Celebrate and Normalize the Gift - After a sound interpretation, briefly explain how it aligned with the Word. - Thank God publicly, reinforcing that He just built up His church (Ephesians 4:12). - Record and share testimonies of lives changed through an interpreted message. Whole-Body Participation - Remind each believer: “To each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:7). - Encourage small-group environments where members can step out more freely. - Reinforce that no one gift defines spirituality (12:29-30); love remains supreme (13:1-3). Moving Forward Together - Keep the biblical vision in front of the congregation: gifts operating “for strengthening, encouragement, and comfort” (14:3). - Maintain an atmosphere of reverence and joy: “Everything must be done in a proper and orderly manner” (14:40). - Expect the Lord to keep speaking; be ready to listen, interpret, and build one another up until He comes. |
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