Why do we speak in tongues?

Why do we speak in tongues and what does it mean?
Copyright ©2006 Tom Roe - February 20, 2006

Scripture References - Mark 16:17, Acts 2:3, Acts 8:14-17, Acts 19:6, Rom 10:9, 1 Cor 12:7-11, 1 Cor 13:1, 1 Cor 14:2

The Day of Pentecost described in the second chapter of Acts was a profound event. However, many seem to believe that since the tongues of fire seen above each of the apostles representing the anointing of the Holy Spirit, are not usually seen by anyone today, that this type of epiphany no longer occurs. Many of the same people believe that, today, salvation is the only transforming experience that occurs between God and our spirit.

I can assure you that the baptism of the Holy Spirit does occur, and I have personally experienced it, even though no tongues of flame appeared that I was aware of. I can't prove this to you, any more than I can prove that if "I confess with my mouth the Lord Jesus, and believe in my heart that God raised Him from the dead, I will be saved." Rom 10:9--That also has happened to me, and other than a profound difference in the way that I look at my purpose on this planet, there may not be much physical evidence of any change at all.

I try very hard not to sin, I fail, I ask forgiveness, and I try very hard not to sin, etc., etc. My flesh is in constant turmoil as it is drawn between the desires of my God, and desires of my adversary. My salvation, described by many scriptures in the New Testament, assures me that my adversary will not prevail. My belief in what the Bible says is simple faith. If you don't have faith it what the Bible says, then you cannot be saved, and you certainly cannot receive the Holy Spirit.

Is the baptism of the Holy Spirit different from salvation itself? According to Acts 16:9 it is--The Bible tells me that I can be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ and not have received the Holy Spirit.

My personal statement of faith says, "If it is in the Bible, I can teach that it is the inspired word of God and trust in it, but if it is not in the Bible, I cannot."

The Bible tells me that when you receive the Holy Spirit you may speak with new tongues. If I analyze this prophesy spoken by Christ before his ascension in Mark chapter 16, I conclude that new tongues are languages that no one around me understands or it means a language that I don't personally understand.

In Acts chapter 2, I am told that many of the folks around the disciples heard them speak in languages that the disciples didn't necessarily understand [unknown], but those around them did understand that what they were saying, because it was heard as the language of their native land. The implication is that sometimes when I speak in an unknown language, someone nearby may understand what I am saying even though I do not. It also says that those around me may hear the very same words as if they were spoken in several languages simultaneously.

"Ah-ha!" you say, "but the Bible doesn't actually say that the language is unknown to everyone". Well, that's true--sort'a--Paul says, that he may speak with the tongues of angels (1 Cor 13), I don't know anyone that speaks native Angel, do you? But, I do believe there are beings that do--I just don't communicate with any of them right now--or do I?    ;)

So--I believe what the Bible says, when it tells me...
a) I can be saved, and
b) I can also be baptized with the Holy Spirit.

Furthermore, I believe that there may be evidence of this event in the form of unknown utterances. It can take other forms as well, seen in the gifts of the Spirit, 1 Cor 12.

Apparently, the believers of Paul's generation got out of hand with this (something, which happens even today). It is implied that their gatherings drifted (or ran headlong) into what was more chaotic babbling than fruits of the Spirit. In 1st Corinthians, we are given a wonderful lesson on the nature of the Holy Spirit, and in how the gifts are to be used. Edification and comfort are a repeated theme, and we must conclude that the "Comforter" sent by Christ upon his return to the Father's side, is someone who comforts... Imagine that?

Therefore, the gift of spiritual gab does exist, and it can be foreign when it occurs, but Paul also expresses a great desire that it not be left as ramblings without meaning. In the same book of the New Testament, we are told repeatedly how we should be careful with the gifts, and not abuse them. Always pray for a translation so that those within hearing will understand the words spoken by the Comforter. Then--wait for a translation.

This study could go on and on... volumes could be written on what Paul said to the Corinthians, and what we are meant to learn from those letters. But, instead of me giving you my point of view, which admittedly is based on a personal interpretation, why don't you seek God's wisdom yourself. The Word of God is meant for you to read. You must study it to fully comprehend how it can change your life.

It is not a sprint; it is a marathon, as my pastor, Mark Harrell, frequently reminds me. So pace yourself, and never stop learning about what God has done for you.


Copyright ©2006 Tom Roe
tom@tomroe.com
http://TomRoe.com