Speaking in tongues, also known as glossolalia, is a fascinating and often debated topic within Christianity. This guide aims to provide a balanced perspective, exploring its biblical basis, different interpretations, and practical implications. We’ll delve into the question: What Is Speaking In Tongues according to scripture and various theological viewpoints?
The Biblical Foundation of Speaking in Tongues
The term “speaking in tongues” generally refers to the supernatural ability to speak in languages unknown to the speaker, enabled by the Holy Spirit. The Greek word for “tongues” in the Bible is glossa (γλῶσσα), simply meaning “language.” A basic biblical definition of what is speaking in tongues would be the divinely granted capacity to articulate a language one has never learned.
This phenomenon is prominently featured in the New Testament, particularly in the Book of Acts. While some interpret modern instances of unintelligible speech in religious settings as examples of glossolalia, understandings of what is speaking in tongues vary widely.
Regardless of interpretation, the presence of tongues is undeniably biblical. This phenomenon is associated with the arrival of the Holy Spirit as promised in the Old Testament.
The New Covenant and the Holy Spirit
Jeremiah 31:31-34 foretells a New Covenant, where God’s law would be written on hearts, not just on tablets. Joel 2:28-29 prophesies the outpouring of the Spirit on all flesh, leading to prophecy, dreams, and visions. This promise found fulfillment after Jesus’s death and resurrection.
God’s presence would no longer be confined to a physical temple but would reside within believers through the Holy Spirit. This pivotal shift occurred on the Day of Pentecost.
Pentecost: The Birth of Tongues
Acts 2:1-4 describes the dramatic event of Pentecost. The apostles gathered together and experienced a powerful manifestation of the Holy Spirit.
Alt text: Depiction of the Day of Pentecost, showcasing the apostles surrounded by flames and emanating light, representing the Holy Spirit, and individuals listening in awe, signifying the manifestation of speaking in tongues.
They heard a sound like a rushing wind, and “tongues of fire” appeared. Empowered by the Spirit, they began speaking in other languages. Verses 5-6 detail that devout Jews from various nations were in Jerusalem and were astonished to hear the apostles speaking in their own native tongues.
Peter explained this event (Acts 2:16-17) as the fulfillment of Joel’s prophecy, the Holy Spirit had been poured out.
There is general agreement on several aspects of what is speaking in tongues at Pentecost:
- It marked the initial outpouring of the Holy Spirit on believers.
- Speaking in tongues served as a sign of the Spirit’s presence.
- The tongues spoken were recognizable human languages.
Speaking in Tongues and Salvation: A Necessary Condition?
A crucial question often arises: Is speaking in tongues a prerequisite for salvation? The answer, according to many denominations, is no.
Some Pentecostal traditions believe that speaking in tongues is evidence of genuine faith and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. While these churches often prioritize and emphasize the practice, the necessity for salvation is debated.
1 Corinthians 12:13 states: “For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.” This suggests that all believers are baptized in the Spirit.
The question then becomes, when does this baptism occur? The doctrine of subsequence posits that it happens after initial belief, with tongues as a sign. However, Ephesians 1:13-14 indicates that believers are sealed with the Holy Spirit upon hearing and believing the Gospel.
Therefore, believing in Jesus is the moment of baptism in the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:9). While speaking in tongues may accompany this experience, it is not a mandatory requirement for salvation. If speaking in tongues was absolutely essential, Paul would likely have explicitly stated it in his teachings.
Moreover, numerous accounts of conversion in Acts (2:37-42, 8:26-40, 9:1-19, 13:44-52, 16:11-15, 16:25-34, 17:1-33, 18:1-11) describe genuine belief without explicit mention of speaking in tongues. It can be concluded that while tongues can be a sign, it is not a necessary condition.
The Nature of Tongues: Human or Spiritual Languages?
The detailed nature of tongues raises further questions. Is it always a known human language, or can it be a “spiritual,” non-human language?
Two primary views exist:
- View #1: Tongues are exclusively languages of human origin, either currently spoken or previously spoken (extinct) languages.
- View #2: Tongues can be both languages of human origin and “spiritual,” non-human languages.
I (as the content creator) subscribe to the second view.
Proponents of View #1 often argue that Acts 2 establishes a precedent for tongues being human languages and that scriptural interpretations should adhere to this understanding. They might explain instances of seemingly unintelligible tongues as:
- Unrecognized human languages.
- Ancient or extinct languages.
- Fragmented speech resembling gibberish.
- “Immature” tongues requiring practice.
- Simply feigned.
However, clinging rigidly to View #1 may be limiting. While the account in Acts 2 provides specific details, other scriptures describe tongues in ways that allow for the possibility of unique, spiritual languages.
Paul mentions “various kinds of tongues” in 1 Corinthians 12:10 and 12:28.
Scholars offer various interpretations, but View #1 adherents suggest that these refer to different human languages.
However, the phrase “various kinds of tongues” could encompass both human and spiritual languages, suggesting that “tongues” is an umbrella term with different functions and styles.
Paul also states in 1 Corinthians 14:2 that those who speak in tongues speak to God, not to men, uttering “mysteries in the Spirit.”
View #1 proponents interpret this as speaking a human language that listeners don’t understand. However, it’s also possible that Paul refers to a heavenly, spiritual language. “No one” understands the tongues, and its purpose is communication with God.
In 1 Corinthians 13:1, Paul speaks of “tongues of men and of angels.”
Some interpret “tongues of angels” as a literal angelic language or heavenly tongue. Others view it as a hyperbolic statement, emphasizing that even the most extraordinary abilities are meaningless without love.
1 Corinthians 13:2-3 continues with hyperbolic statements about prophetic powers, knowledge, faith, and self-sacrifice. It makes more sense that “angelic tongues” is also a hyperbolic expression.
Despite this, it’s important to acknowledge the scholarly debate surrounding this verse.
Modern secular research offers further insights. Studies analyzing tongues-speaking Christians often conclude that the languages spoken are not recognizable human languages.
While some argue that researchers may be unfamiliar with obscure languages, it’s also possible that these tongues are spiritual languages, defying secular analysis.
Furthermore, studies have indicated genuine neurological activity during tongues-speaking, suggesting a truly spiritual phenomenon. Accepting secular research that validates the benefits of tongues also necessitates considering its findings regarding the non-human nature of the languages.
Functions and Types of Tongues: Personal and Congregational
Understanding what is speaking in tongues also involves understanding its purpose. Can all Christians speak in tongues, or is it a gift reserved for some? There are two functions/types of tongues. All Christians can speak in one of these kinds, but not all Christians can speak in the other kind.
Some argue that 1 Corinthians 12:28-30 suggests that not all speak in tongues. However, 1 Corinthians 12:7 states that “To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” This implies that spiritual gifts benefit all believers.
1 Corinthians 14:2-5 further elucidates this. Speaking in tongues builds up the individual, while prophecy builds up the church. Paul desires all to speak in tongues (for personal edification) but values prophecy more in a congregational setting (due to its understandability). Interpretation allows tongues to benefit the entire church.
Two kinds or functions of tongues emerge:
- Congregational Tongues: For the benefit of the whole church, requires interpretation (the “gift of tongues” mentioned in 1 Corinthians 12).
- Personal Tongues: For individual edification, accessible to all believers.
In 1 Corinthians 14:6, Paul distinguishes between speaking in tongues in a way that benefits others (requiring revelation, knowledge, prophecy, or teaching) and speaking in tongues “loosely” and freely.
1 Corinthians 14:13-19 emphasizes the importance of interpretation in a church setting. Paul speaks in tongues more than all the Corinthians but would rather speak a few understandable words in church.
1 Corinthians 14:23 posits a scenario where the whole church speaks in tongues simultaneously, creating confusion for outsiders.
1 Corinthians 14:26-27 instructs that if anyone speaks in tongues in a gathering, it should be limited to two or three, one at a time, with interpretation.
In summary, all believers can engage in personal tongues, but not all possess congregational tongues (the “gift of tongues”).
There are passages in Acts 2 and 19 where “all” received the Spirit and spoke in tongues and prophesied. These instances suggest that tongues and prophecy were intended for all believers.
1 Corinthians 14:32-33 clarifies that speaking in tongues is a controllable act. It is not an ecstatic experience involving loss of self-control or possession.
Speaking in Tongues in Church: Order and Edification
Should people speak in tongues in church? It depends. Unordered personal tongues spoken simultaneously are inappropriate. However, congregational tongues with interpretation or personal tongues spoken privately at a suitable time are acceptable.
“Seeker-friendly” churches sometimes discourage tongues to avoid discomforting visitors, misinterpreting scriptures to suggest that tongues are never appropriate in church.
However, the scriptures do not discourage tongues in personal life or in church settings. Paul addresses the misuse of tongues, not its complete prohibition.
1 Corinthians 14:39-40 urges: “So, my brothers, earnestly desire to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues. But all things should be done decently and in order.”
Key distinctions between personal and congregational tongues:
- Simultaneity: Personal tongues can be spoken simultaneously; congregational tongues are spoken one at a time.
- Interpretation: Personal tongues do not require interpretation; congregational tongues do.
- Edification: Personal tongues provide personal edification; congregational tongues provide congregational edification.
- Accessibility: Everyone can engage in personal tongues; only some have the gift of congregational tongues.
Speaking in tongues is not “more powerful” than regular prayer. It is not a formula for manipulating God or achieving specific outcomes. But the Bible says that tongues builds you up. Jude 20: “But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit.”
Speaking in tongues builds your faith and increases confidence. The message is intended to strengthen the whole body.
Tongues can also demonstrate miracles, witness to unbelievers, and convince them of the Gospel.
How to Speak in Tongues: Overcoming Barriers and Embracing Faith
How can one speak in tongues?
Reasons why a Christian might not have spoken in tongues:
- Disbelief: A conviction that tongues are fake or reserved for others.
- Lack of Awareness: Limited exposure to teachings about tongues.
- Low Priority: Belief in tongues without emphasizing it.
- Misconceptions: Believing that God must “possess” them.
- Human Reason: Attempting to speak in a known language.
- Other Factors: Embarrassment, fear, or doubt.
Alt text: A diverse group of people with hands raised in prayer, bathed in warm, inviting light, symbolizing unity, hope, and the collective pursuit of spiritual gifts like speaking in tongues within a faith-based community.
To speak in tongues: There is no rigid formula. Supernatural ability is required.
Remove excuses and fear, step out in faith, open your mouth, and begin to speak. God provides the utterance. He might give you words, or you may need to initiate the sounds.
Practice alone if shyness is overwhelming. Trust that the language originates from the Lord.
Over time, the practice will become more natural. Embrace the spiritual, overcome natural doubts, and trust God.
Conclusion: Embracing the Mystery and Potential of Tongues
This exploration of what is speaking in tongues has hopefully shed light on this complex and fascinating topic. Whether viewed as known human languages, spiritual languages, or a combination of both, speaking in tongues remains a powerful expression of faith and a testament to the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit.
Bibliography
[1] https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g1100/kjv/tr/0-1/
[2] Sam Storms, The Language of Heaven (Lake Mary, FL: Charisma House, 2019), 45.
[3] Gordon D. Fee, The First Epistle to the Corinthians (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1987), 630.
[4] Robert W. Graves, Praying in the Spirit (Tulsa, OK: Empowered Life, 2016), 137.
[5] Spiros Zodhiates, The Complete Word Study Dictionary: New Testament (AMG International, 1992), 376.
[6] Jack Hayford, The Beauty of the Spiritual Language (Southlake, TX: Gateway Press, 2018), 94-95.
