Why does Paul thank God for speaking in tongues more than others? An Apostle Overflowing with Gratitude 1 Corinthians 14:18 – “I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you.” • Paul’s first response to any grace-gift is thanksgiving (1 Corinthians 1:4; Colossians 1:3). • He recognizes tongues as a supernatural ability granted by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:10-11). • Gratitude keeps the focus on the Giver, not on the gift or the one exercising it. The Gift Paul Enjoyed Tongues in the New Testament are Spirit-prompted speech in languages unknown to the speaker. They appear: • At Pentecost – Acts 2:4-11 • In Caesarea – Acts 10:46 • In Ephesus – Acts 19:6 Paul’s frequent private use of the gift explains his bold claim in 14:18. Personal Edification Through Tongues 1 Cor 14:4 – “The one who speaks in a tongue edifies himself.” • Deep prayer when words fail (Romans 8:26). • Intimate worship that magnifies God (Acts 10:46). • Spiritual refreshing foretold by Isaiah 28:11-12. • Building oneself up “in the Holy Spirit” (Jude 20). Paul’s strenuous ministry life demanded constant inner renewal; tongues served that need. Missional Impact of Tongues • Cross-cultural evangelism: miraculous languages opened doors (Acts 2; cf. 1 Corinthians 9:19-23). • Authenticating apostolic authority: Mark 16:17; Acts 19:6. • A sign to unbelievers that God is among His people (1 Corinthians 14:22). Because Paul planted churches across linguistic boundaries, the gift directly advanced the gospel. Why Paul Limits Public Tongues 1 Cor 14:19 – “But in the church I would rather speak five coherent words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue.” • Love seeks the good of others (1 Corinthians 13:1-13). • Prophecy and intelligible teaching build up the whole congregation (1 Corinthians 14:3-5). • Public tongues must be interpreted or kept private (1 Corinthians 14:27-28) to avoid confusion (1 Corinthians 14:23, 33, 40). Paul’s gratitude for the gift never overrides his pastoral concern for clarity and edification. Paul’s Balanced Model for Believers Today • Desire every gift God offers (1 Corinthians 14:1). • Give continual thanks for the Spirit’s work. • Use tongues often in private prayer and worship (Ephesians 6:18). • In corporate settings, aim for clear communication and mutual upbuilding. • Let love govern all exercise of spiritual gifts. Paul thanks God for speaking in tongues more than others because the gift enriched his personal communion with God, empowered his missionary calling, and demonstrated the Spirit’s power—yet he subordinated its public use to the greater goal of edifying Christ’s church. |