What does the Bible say about praying in tongues? Definition and Overview “Praying in tongues” refers to a Spirit-empowered form of prayer in which a believer speaks in a language not previously learned. In Scripture, this is often described as a gift given by the Holy Spirit to certain individuals, principally for the purpose of edification and communication with God. The primary passages discussing this topic are found in the Book of Acts and in Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians. Old Testament Shadows and Prophetic Hints While the Old Testament does not explicitly describe praying in tongues as witnessed in the New Testament, there are foreshadowings of spiritual empowerment for service. Joel 2:28–29 prophesies a future outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon all people: “And afterward I will pour out My Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy…” Though the immediate text does not mention tongues, it establishes a precedent of God’s Spirit transforming speech and communication. Isaiah 28:11 states, “Very well then, with foreign lips and strange tongues God will speak to this people.” While contextually it points to foreign invaders, some early interpreters suggested it also hints at a future phenomenon where God’s message transcends normal linguistic barriers. This sets the stage for a broader understanding of the Spirit’s work in communication. New Testament Fulfillment 1. Pentecost (Acts 2) The clearest initial example appears at Pentecost: “They saw tongues like flames of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them” (Acts 2:3–4). People around them heard these unlearned languages and recognized them as their own native tongues (Acts 2:6–8). This event signified the outpouring of the Holy Spirit foretold by Joel, affirming God’s power to transcend linguistic barriers. 2. Other Accounts in Acts Additional references in Acts depict believers speaking in tongues when they receive the Holy Spirit. For instance, Acts 10:44–46 recounts how the household of Cornelius spontaneously praised God in tongues. Acts 19:6 describes believers in Ephesus speaking in tongues and prophesying. These episodes reinforce that speaking in tongues accompanied the Holy Spirit’s arrival and demonstrated God’s confirmation of the work of Christ among various groups—Jews and Gentiles alike. 3. Paul’s Instruction in 1 Corinthians The Corinthian church grappled with proper use of tongues during corporate worship. Paul offers extensive teaching (1 Corinthians 12–14) on the nature, purpose, and exercise of spiritual gifts. He recognizes tongues as a legitimate gift from the Holy Spirit for personal edification, provided it is used with wisdom and considered alongside other gifts such as prophecy, teaching, and serving. Purpose of Praying in Tongues 1. Communication with God In describing the gift of tongues, Paul writes: “For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men, but to God. Indeed, no one understands him; he utters mysteries in the Spirit” (1 Corinthians 14:2). This suggests that praying in tongues allows for a deeper intimacy in prayer, one that bypasses human understanding. 2. Personal Edification Paul emphasizes that “He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself” (1 Corinthians 14:4). This does not imply selfishness but acknowledges a private, spiritual benefit. The believer’s spirit communes with God in a profound manner, strengthening personal devotion and faith. 3. God’s Supernatural Confirmation Acts 2 and Acts 10 show that tongues sometimes serve as a sign of God’s presence and approval. Likewise, Mark 16:17 states, “And these signs will accompany those who believe: In My name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues.” Thus, praying in tongues can function as evidence of the Holy Spirit’s activity, aligning with other biblical miracles that highlight divine power at work. Guidelines and Order in Worship 1. Interpreted or Private Paul counsels that public gifts of tongues in worship should generally be accompanied by interpretation. “If anyone speaks in a tongue, two, or at most three, should speak in turn, and someone must interpret” (1 Corinthians 14:27). This ensures that the gathered fellowship receives edification rather than confusion. 2. Pursuit of Love and Edification for All Paul situates tongues within a framework of love for others: “Follow the way of love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy” (1 Corinthians 14:1). Tongues are beneficial; yet the overarching priority is the edification of the body of believers. Orderliness and clarity keep corporate worship focused on God’s truth and build up everyone present. 3. No Basis for Pride The Corinthian believers risked elevating tongues as a badge of spirituality. Paul corrects this by urging humility, reminding the church that all spiritual gifts—tongues included—come from the same Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:7–11). God alone determines how gifts are distributed, calling believers to unity and selfless love. Spiritual and Emotional Implications From a behavioral perspective, many believers testify that praying in tongues fosters a sense of spiritual vitality and draws them closer to God, reducing anxiety and enhancing worship. While experiences vary, Scripture confirms that the Holy Spirit’s gifts serve to edify believers and glorify God. As with any spiritual discipline, the fruit (love, joy, peace, patience, etc.) remains the best indicator of spiritual growth (Galatians 5:22–23). Early Church Writings and Historical Observations 1. Early Church Fathers Some historical documents suggest that the gift of tongues continued beyond the apostolic era. For instance, Irenaeus (2nd century AD) indicated in his writings that certain believers prayed or spoke in prophetic utterances, consistent with what we see in Scripture. 2. Manuscript Evidence Existing Greek manuscripts of Acts and 1 Corinthians reliably convey references to speaking in tongues. Scholars like Dr. James White and Dr. Dan Wallace affirm that textual variants do not affect the clear meaning regarding this gift. The passages in question have been preserved in a remarkably uniform way, underscoring the reliability of the biblical text. 3. Archaeological Finds While archaeology itself does not prove the phenomenon of praying in tongues, it supports the reliability of the Scriptures that describe it. Discoveries in the Middle East verify the authenticity of locations like ancient Corinth and Jerusalem, offering external confirmation of the credibility of the early Christian records documented in the Book of Acts and in Paul’s epistles. Practical Considerations for Believers • Seek alignment with Scripture: Always hold any experience of tongues to the measure of biblical truth. • Love and unity: Any exercise of spiritual gifts should cultivate love for God and neighbor. • Spiritual fruit: Look for the fruits of the Holy Spirit in one’s life as a genuine sign of spiritual growth. • Order in congregation: Follow Paul’s guidelines by ensuring interpretation and safeguarding orderly worship. Conclusion Praying in tongues, as presented in Scripture, is a legitimate expression of the Holy Spirit’s work. It serves as a divine means of communion with God, personal edification, and sometimes as a sign confirming the Spirit’s movement. While not all traditions understand tongues in precisely the same way, the biblical record remains clear that it is a God-given gift meant to bless and build up those in Christ’s body. When exercised with wisdom, humility, and love, praying in tongues can draw believers closer to God, align hearts with His purposes, and testify to the Holy Spirit’s ongoing work in the world. As the Berean Standard Bible testifies through passages like Acts 2, 1 Corinthians 12–14, and Acts 10, tongues stand among the many divine gifts manifesting God’s power and faithfulness to His people. |
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