The Gift of Tongues: Its Purpose, Proper Use, and Power
A Gift That Requires Understanding
The apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 14:18, declares, “I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than you all.” This statement is remarkable, as it highlights Paul’s deep appreciation for the spiritual gift of speaking in tongues. Yet, in the same chapter, Paul lays out specific guidelines and limitations for its use. His teaching reflects both the value of this gift and the importance of order and edification in the body of Christ.
Speaking in tongues is a beautiful and powerful gift, but like any spiritual gift, it must be exercised with wisdom and love. Today, we’ll explore what Paul teaches about speaking in tongues, focusing on six specific situations where tongues should not be used. Together, we’ll uncover the purpose of this gift, its role in worship, and how we can honor God through its proper use.
1. The Purpose of Tongues: A Heavenly Language
Speaking in tongues, or glossolalia, is a spiritual gift described in Acts 2, 1 Corinthians 12-14, and other parts of the New Testament. It is the supernatural ability to speak in a language unknown to the speaker, either a human language or a heavenly language.
a. Tongues as a Sign
In Acts 2, we see tongues as a sign to unbelievers. On the day of Pentecost, the apostles spoke in various languages, and people from different nations understood the gospel in their native tongues. This miraculous event demonstrated the power of the Holy Spirit and drew thousands to faith.
b. Tongues as a Tool for Personal Edification
Paul explains in 1 Corinthians 14:4 that “he who speaks in a tongue edifies himself.” Speaking in tongues can be a way of building oneself up spiritually, allowing the Holy Spirit to intercede and pray through us (Romans 8:26).
c. Tongues in Corporate Worship
While tongues can edify the individual, Paul emphasizes that spiritual gifts should also edify the church. 1 Corinthians 14:12 says, “Since you are eager for gifts of the Spirit, try to excel in those that build up the church.” This sets the stage for Paul’s instructions on when tongues should and should not be used.
2. Six Times Not to Speak in Tongues
Paul provides clear guidelines on when speaking in tongues is inappropriate. These instructions ensure that this gift is used for edification, not confusion.
a. When Not Impelled by Love
“Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal” (1 Corinthians 13:1).
The first and most critical guideline is that tongues should be motivated by love. Without love, tongues are meaningless noise. Spiritual gifts, including tongues, are not about showcasing our spirituality but about serving others and glorifying God.
Reflection: Is Love Your Motivation?
Before using the gift of tongues, examine your heart. Are you motivated by love for God and others, or are you seeking attention or validation?
b. When in Regular Church Meetings Without an Interpreter
“If anyone speaks in a tongue, let there be two or at the most three, each in turn, and let one interpret. But if there is no interpreter, let him keep silent in church” (1 Corinthians 14:27-28).
Paul stresses the importance of interpretation in corporate worship. Without an interpreter, speaking in tongues does not edify the congregation. Instead, it creates confusion and detracts from the message of the gospel.
Reflection: Does Your Tongue Build Up the Church?
If there is no interpreter present, refrain from speaking in tongues publicly. Instead, use this gift in private prayer, where it can edify your spirit.
c. When It’s Time to Deliver Truth to the Public
“If I come to you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you unless I speak to you either by revelation, by knowledge, by prophesying, or by teaching?” (1 Corinthians 14:6).
Paul prioritizes clear communication of God’s truth over speaking in tongues. In public settings, especially when unbelievers are present, the focus should be on delivering the gospel in a way that can be understood.
Reflection: Are You Proclaiming Truth Clearly?
When ministering to others, prioritize prophecy, teaching, or other gifts that communicate God’s truth directly.
d. When Invited to Say Grace at the Table
“Otherwise, if you bless with the spirit, how will he who occupies the place of the uninformed say ‘Amen’ at your giving of thanks, since he does not understand what you say?” (1 Corinthians 14:16).
Paul advises against speaking in tongues when giving thanks in public, such as at a meal. If others cannot understand your words, they cannot join in your prayer or say “Amen” in agreement.
Reflection: Are You Including Others in Worship?
When praying publicly, use language that includes and edifies everyone present.
e. When the Whole Church Speaks in Tongues
“If the whole church comes together in one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those who are uninformed or unbelievers, will they not say that you are out of your mind?” (1 Corinthians 14:23).
Paul warns against chaotic gatherings where everyone speaks in tongues simultaneously. Such behavior can alienate unbelievers and cause confusion.
Reflection: Does Your Worship Invite Others to Christ?
Ensure that your use of tongues in corporate worship reflects God’s order and invites unbelievers to encounter Him.
f. After Two or Three Messages Have Been Given and Interpreted
“Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others judge” (1 Corinthians 14:29).
Even when tongues are interpreted, Paul limits the number of messages in a single gathering to two or three. This ensures that worship remains orderly and focused.
Reflection: Are You Honoring God’s Order?
Follow Paul’s guidelines to maintain reverence and order in worship.
3. Balancing Personal and Corporate Use
a. The Private Use of Tongues
Paul acknowledges the value of tongues for personal edification. 1 Corinthians 14:18-19 says, “I thank my God I speak with tongues more than you all; yet in the church, I would rather speak five words with my understanding.” Use tongues privately to build your spirit but prioritize understanding in corporate worship.
b. The Role of Interpretation
Interpretation transforms tongues into a message that edifies the entire church. If you feel led to speak in tongues during a gathering, pray for the gift of interpretation or ensure an interpreter is present (1 Corinthians 14:13).
4. The Power of a Spirit-Led Life
a. Tongues as a Path to Intimacy with God
Praying in tongues deepens our connection with God, allowing the Spirit to intercede through us (Romans 8:26). This personal aspect of tongues fosters intimacy and spiritual growth.
b. Tongues in Spiritual Warfare
Tongues can be a weapon in spiritual warfare, enabling us to pray according to God’s will even when we don’t know how to pray (Ephesians 6:18).
5. Cultivating a Biblical Understanding of Tongues
a. Study Scripture
To use the gift of tongues effectively, immerse yourself in God’s Word. 2 Timothy 3:16 reminds us that all Scripture is profitable for teaching and correction.
b. Seek the Spirit’s Guidance
Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in using this gift according to His purposes. John 16:13 promises that the Spirit will lead us into all truth.
c. Submit to God’s Order
Embrace Paul’s instructions as God’s wisdom for the church. A Spirit-filled life is marked by both power and order.
Honoring the Gift of Tongues
The gift of tongues is a powerful tool for personal edification and corporate worship, but it must be exercised with wisdom and love. By following Paul’s guidelines, we can honor God, edify the church, and draw others to Christ.
Let us remember Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 14:40: “Let all things be done decently and in order.” May we use this gift not for personal glory but for God’s glory, always seeking to build His kingdom. Amen.