Gift of Speaking in Tongues, Prophecy and Healing
Gift of Speaking in Tongues, Prophecy and Healing – is it biblical?
Back in the day at Pentecost, in the upper room, a special gift was bestowed on the disciples that they would be able to go out and spread the gospel of Jesus Christ successfully. One of the gifts was the ability of speaking in tongues. Many people today who speak in tongues today seem to think that this gift of tongues was a heavenly language. But this is not true. The gift of tongues bestowed on those in the upper room spoke an earthly language. The gift given to the disciples enabled them to communicate with people from other nations who spoke other languages, how else could they spread the gospel.
Acts 2:6-11 “Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language.” And they were all amazed and marveled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans?” And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?” Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia,” Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes,” Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God.”
Now…
All genuine Christians believe that the gift of tongues existed as mentioned in Scripture.
1 Corinthians 12:8-11 “8To one is given in and through the [Holy] Spirit [the power to speak] a message of wisdom, and to another [the power to express] a word of knowledge and understanding according to the same [Holy] Spirit; 9To another [wonder-working] faith by the same [Holy] Spirit, to another the extraordinary powers of healing by the one Spirit; 10To another the working of miracles, to another prophetic insight (the gift of interpreting the divine will and purpose); to another the ability to discern and distinguish between [the utterances of true] spirits [and false ones], to another various kinds of [unknown] tongues, to another the ability to interpret [such] tongues. 11All these [gifts, achievements, abilities] are inspired and brought to pass by one and the same [Holy] Spirit, Who apportions to each person individually [exactly] as He chooses”.
And the Bible clearly states that the Corinthians spoke an earthly language (tongues) and God alone understands all languages.
Corinth, was a market visted by many a merchant from Asia, Africa, and Europe, and had a wildly mixed population speaking many a different language. To exercise of the gift of tongues in preaching bought many an unbeliever to salvation.
1Cor 14:2 “For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries.”
G1100 γλῶσσα glossa (glows`-sah) n.
1. the tongue
2. (by implication) a language
3. (specially) a language not naturally acquired
1 Corinthians 12:10 mentions the gift of speaking in tongues and also mentions the gift of interpreting tongues. Tongues had to be interpreted so believers could understand what was being preached to the unbeliever.
The ‘gift of tongues’ given to the early church was given as the Holy Spirit willed. Because the Holy Spirit is sovereign. No one has the right to demand that he be given any certain gift or gifts as an evidence of the Holy Spirit’s baptism. Tongues was certainly not evidence of salvation.
The Corinthian church for example did not have the Bible, the gift of tongues was needed in authenticating the Message that was delivered as being DIVINE; these signs followed the proclamation of the truth.
When a person accepts Jesus Christ into their life they instantly receive the Holy Spirit who comes to abide in them – this alone is a gift.
Do not confuse speaking in tongues as being a fruit of the Spirit.
The fruit of the Spirit is evidence of being filled with the Holy Spirit. The fruits of the Spirit are mentioned in:
Galatians 5:22-23; “22But the fruit of the [Holy] Spirit [the work which His presence within accomplishes] is love, joy (gladness), peace, patience (an even temper, forbearance), kindness, goodness (benevolence), faithfulness,23Gentleness (meekness, humility), self-control (self-restraint, continence). Against such things there is no law [that can bring a charge].”
However…
Paul ended up rebuking the Corinthians over and over again because they did not understand the gospel. Paul scolded the Corinthians for misusing the gift of tongues and speaking gibberish and making a mockery of the OT fulfillment of prophecy by Isaiah. This prophecy came about due to Israel’s disobedience to God.
Isaiah 28:11; “11No, but [the Lord will teach the rebels in a more humiliating way] by men with stammering lips and another tongue will He speak to this people [says Isaiah, and teach them His lessons].”
Paul points out the OT Scripture of Isaiah 28:11 to the Corinthians because they (being Jews) should know the Law well…but they don’t.
1 Corinthians 12:21; “In the law it is written, With men of other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the Lord”.
Paul uses the reference to Isaiah to show them how they lack in knowing of OT scripture, therefore they lack even more when it comes to the gospel. Isaiah specifically says that tongues will be used as a tool to preach the word of God to Israel, not the way the Corinthians are using it. It also says that even though they hear the word of God they still will not listen.
The gift of speaking in tongues was used as a sign only to unbelievers:
1 Corinthians 14:22 “22Thus [unknown] tongues are meant for a [supernatural] sign, not for believers but for unbelievers [on the point of believing], while prophecy (inspired preaching and teaching, interpreting the divine will and purpose) is not for unbelievers [on the point of believing] but for believers.”
To use tongues in any other way is unbiblical and when used the gospel was preached and people were saved because they heard the message, the sign of the gift of tongues followed only because the truth had been preached and the unbeliever was then on the point of believing.
Tongues was given by God to certain people when they came into contact with others who did not speak their mother tongue. They suddenly by God’s power could speak the other person’s language and the gospel was preached to them that they may come to know Jesus Christ and be saved. The gift of interpretation was given to another person, in order that anyone nearby could hear that the TRUTH was being preached.
The Corinthians turned tongues speaking into a mockery claiming they spoke ‘heavenly’ languages. They used it for self glory and self gratification and they puffed themselves up making one person seem more spiritual than another. Paul lambastes them and calls the Corinthians spiritually immature and childish in their thinking.
1 Corinthians 14:20 “20Brethren, do not be children [immature] in your thinking; continue to be babes in [matters of] evil, but in your minds be mature [men].”
The Corinthians never grew up. They remained spiritually immature. They failed to study the scriptures just like those churches today who follow the Corinthian blueprint.
Hebrews 5:12-14 “12For even though by this time you ought to be teaching others, you actually need someone to teach you over again the very first principles of God’s Word. You have come to need milk, not solid food. 13For everyone who continues to feed on milk is obviously inexperienced and unskilled in the doctrine of righteousness (of conformity to the divine will in purpose, thought, and action), for he is a mere infant [not able to talk yet]! 14But solid food is for full-grown men, for those whose senses and mental faculties are trained by practice to discriminate and distinguish between what is morally good and noble and what is evil and contrary either to divine or human law.”
The Corinthians thought they were so spiritual, but the Bible says they were manifesting carnality:
1 Corinthians 3:1; “HOWEVER, BRETHREN, I could not talk to you as to spiritual [men], but as to nonspiritual [men of the flesh, in whom the carnal nature predominates], as to mere infants [in the new life] in Christ [unable to talk yet!]”
And there was even gross sin among these spiritual Corinthians:
1 Corinthians 5:1; ” IT IS actually reported that there is sexual immorality among you, impurity of a sort that is condemned and does not occur even among the heathen; for a man has [his own] father’s wife.”
The gift of speaking in tongues was a TEMPORARY gift bestowed on people by the Holy Spirit
- To preach the gospel to all nations
- As a sign to confirm the gospel message preached because people would come to be saved thereafter.
- The fulfillment of OT scripture.
Once the Bible was written the gift of speaking in tongues has ceased and was replaced by love and truth.
1 Corinthians 13:8 “Love never fails [never fades out or becomes obsolete or comes to an end]. As for prophecy (the gift of interpreting the divine will and purpose), it will be fulfilled and pass away; as for tongues, they will be destroyed and cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away [it will lose its value and be superseded by truth].”
Tongues served their purpose, a very useful one, Now with God’s complete revelation in our hands (the Bible), we do not require signs to manifest it as the Word of God. When preached, it authenticates itself.
Truth = The Word of God
Paul says that LOVE never fails and this leads us to the 2 commandments that Jesus spoke about in
Mark 12:30-31 and they are: 30And you shall love the Lord your God out of and with your whole heart and out of and with all your soul (your life) and out of and with all your mind (with your faculty of thought and your moral understanding) and out of and with all your strength. This is the first and principal commandment. 31The second is like it and is this, You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these.“
The gift of prophecy (foreseeing the future) too shall be entirely unnecessary as the Bible contains everything you need to know for yesterday, today and tomorrow. God has a stern warning for those with new words, new revelations that fall outside of scripture:
Revelation 22:18 “if any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book”.
In those days Paul and the other Apostles wrote and prophesied in part – in other words they did not know everything until it was give to them by the Holy Spirit. Paul said in…
1 Corinthians 13:8-11; “8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. 9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. 10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. 11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.
that which is perfect = The Word of God / Bible
G5046 τέλειος teleios (tel’-ei-os) adj.
1. complete
{(neuter as noun, with G3588) completeness; in various applications of labor, growth, mental and moral character, etc.}
Truth = The Word of God
Jesus Christ = Perfect and the Truth.
The imperfect, the incomplete = speaking in tongues, prophecy (new knowledge / foretelling the future) has ceased!
Now the big question WHEN exactly did speaking in tongues cease?
The Berean Bible Society says:
“The sign gifts, speaking in tongues, prophecy, the gift of healing, etc. were operating all through the Book of Acts, and these gifts are mentioned in the letters that Paul wrote during the Acts period. But when we turn to the letters written after the Book of Acts—the 4 Prison Epistles, and the 3 Pastoral Epistles, we find that the sign gifts either aren’t mentioned at all or we see—as with the gift of healing—that they were no longer operating in Paul’s life. What he could do in Acts 28, he could no longer do in Philippians, or in 1 and 2 Timothy. He could heal all the sick on the island in Acts 28:9, but he couldn’t heal any of his closest co-workers—Timothy, Epaphroditus, Trophimus—after the close of the Book of Acts.
Arranging Paul’s letters in the order that he wrote them allows us to see the pattern of truth that is found in the Word of God:
The sign gifts were operating in Acts and in all of the Acts Epistles: Galatians, 1 & 2 Thessalonians, 1 & 2 Corinthians and Romans.
But in this time period, in 1 Corinthians 13:8-12, Paul tells us that the Lord had revealed to him that these gifts would cease some day. And they did, because in the letters written after the Book of Acts, the sign gifts had ceased, just as the Lord said that they would….”
“We can now give a scriptural answer to the question that we started with: when did the sign gifts cease?
The answer: The sign gifts ceased at the end of the Book of Acts. There is no record in Scripture of any of the sign gifts operating in any of the letters that Paul wrote after the end of the Acts period, and it is clear that the gift of healing had ceased since Paul could no longer heal even his closest co-workers after the close of the Book of Acts.”
A note about the gift of healing
“As we have seen, Paul was able to heal many sick people all through the Book of Acts. He healed every sick person on the Island of Malta in Acts 28. And he wrote to the Corinthians about the gift of healing that was operating in their church during the Acts period (1 Cor. 12:9). But we have also seen that with the close of the Book of Acts, the gift of healing ceased to operate. Paul could no longer heal anyone—not Epaphroditus in Philippians 2, not Timothy in 1 Timothy 5:23, not Trophimus in 2 Timothy 4:20. The gift of healing had ceased to operate, along with the other sign gifts.
Today God no longer gives the gift of healing, and there are no “healers.” But we should not think that God Himself no longer heals! In Philippians 2 we read of a healing that God did after the gift of healing had ceased to operate:
“Yet I considered it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier, but your messenger and the one who ministered to my need; since he was longing for you all, and was distressed because you had heard that he was sick.
“For indeed he was sick almost unto death; but God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow.
“Therefore I sent him the more eagerly, that when you see him again you may rejoice, and I may be less sorrowful.
“Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness, and hold such men in esteem; because for the work of Christ he came close to death, not regarding his life, to supply what was lacking in your service toward me” (Phil. 2:25-30).
Paul commends Epaphroditus very highly for his faithfulness even unto death. But when Epaphroditus fell sick—near to death—Paul was no longer able to heal him because the gift of healing had ceased to operate. But we read that Epaphroditus was healed—directly by the Lord: “He was sick unto death but the Lord had mercy on him….”
There is healing today, but there is no gift of healing, there are no “divine healers.” There is no gift of healing today but God still heals!” (Emphasis added) — https://www.bereanbiblesociety.org/when-did-the-gift-of-tongues-cease/
God still heals if you go to Jesus Christ directly in prayer and pray for healing. If it is God’s Will that you be healed, He will heal you. You do not go to a faith healer, or a divine healer to heal you. You do not need an intermediary between you and Jesus Christ to pray for healing. You go to God through Jesus Christ yourself in prayer.
Tom Lessing says “As far as healing is concerned, Paul could have laid his hands on Timothy and prayed for him. Instead, he wrote, “Drink no longer water, but use a little wine (not the wine we know today) for thy stomach’s sake and thine often infirmities. (1 Timothy 5:23). Paul himself could probably have gone to one of his brethren and asked him to pray for his healing. Instead, he himself prayed and God said, “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” (2 Corinthians 12:9). Wow, think of that. Paul was content with his suffering because he preferred to be endowed with the power of God. That’s the best medicine there is.”
Jews (signs) vs Gentiles (faith)
The end of the Book of Acts was also the end of God’s dealings with the nation of Israel. Acts 28:25-28 stands as God’s last words to the nation of Israel for nearly 2000 years. The Jews sought after signs (1 Corinthians 1:22) so God gave them signs including the Gentiles who were among them in order to provoke Israel to jealousy (Romans 11:14). But with the close of the book of Acts, God sets aside Israel for a time to turn his attention to the Gentiles, and when God gave up on the ‘the people who needed signs‘ (Jews) for a time, the sign gifts passed away. Jews need signs – Gentiles believe by faith (2 Corinthians 5:7)
If Tongues was a heavenly language what confusion there would have been.
Tom Lessing says: “Whereas the confusion of tongues in Genesis 11:1-19 was the means God used to judge humankind during the construction of the Tower of Babel, the tongues phenomenon in Acts 2 was the means to bless all the nations. The original curse in Genesis was upended in Acts by removing the curse of confusion and replacing it with a blessing of clear comprehension. It heralded a new beginning for all mankind, showering on every single human being the grace and mercy to be saved through faith alone in the finished work of Christ alone, and through the blessed work of the Holy Spirit alone. Faith and faith alone is the means by which lost sinners are saved (Hebrews 11:6). However, faith is not simply a leap in the dark. It must and always does go hand in hand with a clear understanding of the Gospel. (Romans 10:17). To facilitate his blessing on all mankind, God enabled his disciples to speak in the languages of every nation present on that glorious day of Pentecost when the Comforter, in fulfillment of Christ’s promise in John 14:16, 26; 15: 26 and 16:7, was poured out on all flesh (John 17:2).
Bear in mind that there was no-one on that day who interpreted the various languages. The multitude of nations who were present heard them speak in their own mother tongue (Acts 2:4). The interpretation of tongues (other known languages) became necessary only when the church was established and believers began to worship in their own venues convenient for them to attend. The interpretation was for the benefit of the believers and the speaking in tongues itself for the unbelievers who began to frequent the different churches (1 Corinthians 14:22). The gift of prophecy was not to predict future events but to preach the unadulterated Gospel.
If it had been true that the disciples spoke in unknown, heavenly tongues on the Day of Pentecost, without someone having to interpret them, confusion would have been the order of the day. No one would or could then have been saved (Romans 10:17). Confusion, as already mentioned, was a means God used throughout mankind’s history to judge them. (viz. Genesis 11:7 Deuteronomy 28:49).”
IMPORTANT! In very very rare instances God can and will give the gift of speaking in tongues to people who might come into contact with other people where their is a language barrier. In that instance the gospel will be preached to unbelievers, and unbelievers will come to Jesus Christ and be SAVED.
Today speaking in tongues and prophesying is self-induced or demonic. If you speak in tongues I urge you to read your Bible and study the matter urgently and rid yourself of this childish behavior or worse, demonic affliction. See here for help Seeking Salvation or Deliverance?
Dueling Tongues from Acts2031 on Vimeo.
Hi all (Burning Lamp, Alan, Jemah, Deborah, Elmarie, who did I leave out?)
Most importantly, I would like to loudly echo BL’s sentiments expressed regarding this issue:
This is a subject about which I have strong convictions, some of which I have expressed in minor postings above and also on other threads on the DTW site. However, because I regard this as, potentially, the most divisive issue (sadly) among Christians, I will attempt to refrain from undue elaboration.
Many of the authoritative articles posted above lend further strong evidence that tongues are not for today. The question which repeatedly comes to mind, is what could possibly be the purpose of tongues today, when we have the completed Gospel? This sub-issue has been mentioned in one of the comments above, but the question itself remains unanswered.
Although it may seem honourable or kind for Christians to differ quietly on the subject of speaking in tongues today, I fail to see why this should be so, it being such an enormously divisive issue.
While it is dismissed as being of seemingly little importance by some practitioners, it has by and large been refuted by the majority of documented Christian scholars throughout church history. However, if consensus has been reached in the church as to the position regarding the other Apostolic gifts, does it not stand to reason that the controversy surrounding the least favoured of those gifts is a demonic ploy?
In this regard Lourens said:
Further to that, it would be fair to state that there exists a singular truth regarding this matter, but that the sectarianism is the result of the deception employed in obscuring that truth. If it is widely accepted that the other more ‘important’ Apostolic gifts are extremely rare, if not ceased, today, it seems simply illogical that tongues would have been singled out and maintained for no particular purpose.
If it was God’s intention for us to still speak in tongues today, instructions to this end would be very clear and not condusive to the extreme controversy that it is. God is ultimately practical and the Bible contains the most economically written instructions to Christians in it’s divine pages. If that is an accepted fact, then it is impossible for Christians to simply agree to disagree on this issue which has been the cause of more division and tragic consequences in recent church history than I wish to remember.
Alan said:
While I agree that there have been many historical heretics and that these men are in many respects among them, I strongly feel that this is where the gift of discernment becomes indispensable for the Christian, to avoid their subtle falsehoods. If we were to simply dismiss all the writings of all those who seem to be heretical or have been in error in some way or another, I cannot think of one single teacher/writer whose works could be regarded as safe. Not one. Outside the Bible that is, of course.
God often uses unbelievers to do tasks for the fulfillment of His perfect plan. We must employ discernment in all matters which will enable us to not continually throw the baby out with the bathwater. We far too easily tend to generalize, categorize or ascribe guilt by association. 1 Th 5:21 But test and prove all things (until you can recognize) what is good; (to that) hold fast.
Deborah said:
That is the point, exactly.
My reason for posting this we have just about worked through the Corinthians chapters about tongues 🙂 But it is the book of Acts that gives us the clarity on the singular purpose of tongues. For those who know this just a good exercise to refresh our memories and for those who did not know please get into reading this little article that I find simple and clear.
Hello all,
Below is a quote from Grant’s post above:-
Firstly, let me say that what Grant is implying here is that even apostates and heretics can speak the truth, which is correct. Even Satan speaks the truth mixed with a tiny bit of lie, to deceive people who would not otherwise be so deceived. Ninety-nine percent truth + one percent lie will do the trick very well, which is the lesson to be learned from the symbolic use of leaven as a metaphor for sin. All leaven was to be purged from houses (tents originally) and the bread was to contain no leaven either.
The problem I have with such statements however, is that it is so easy to place such weight on the teachings of men that we allow them to influence the way we read the Bible, rather than reading our Bible and allowing it to influence the the way we regard the teachings of men. In other words, it’s backwards. All writings, commentaries, preachings, etc can be useful and helpful to Christians, of course, but what we learn from the Holy Spirit as we read God’s Word, is always, and I’ll emphasize it ALWAYS the yardstick by which we measure the truth of what we read or hear from men.
To summarize, I respect the words of men (and women) who have studied much more than I on a particular subject (any subject), but I will not ever allow that respect to colour the way I read the scriptures, which is what is being done by quoting commentaries, etc to explain what the Bible means. How can you be like the Bereans and study the scriptures to see if what the commentary writer says is true, unless you are prepared to dismiss the learned man’s writing if you don’t find the Holy Spirit revealing the same thing to you from the text?
Further down the same post Grant (sorry mate, I’m not picking on you, just replying to your post, but the principle here holds for others who’ve posted too) says the following:-
“While it is dismissed as being of seemingly little importance by some practitioners, it has by and large been refuted by the majority of documented Christian scholars throughout church history. However, if consensus has been reached in the church as to the position regarding the other Apostolic gifts, does it not stand to reason that the controversy surrounding the least favoured of those gifts is a demonic ploy?”
The fact that consensus has been reached in the church is not now, nor ever should be the basis for interpreting scripture. In fact, going on the example given in scripture of the history of the Israelites being a set of lessons for us to learn from, consensus, especially if it is the majority view, should be a warning that the agreed position is wrong, not right. Whenever people use that old chestnut of “Oh, the majority of Christians believe…” I know from what the Holy Spirit has revealed to me from my Bible that the issue being supported by this ‘evidence’ is probably wrong.
I’m sorry folks, but the church fathers, Origen, Augustine, Justin Martyr, John Chrysostom, Eusebious, and a host of others, committed themselves, or encouraged others to commit, such barbaric acts of cruelty on the Jewish brethren of my Lord, that I would sooner swim in a cesspit than allow that their teachings be held in any kind of honour at all, no matter what truth there maybe mixed in with their vile replacement theology and anti-semitic/anti-christ doctrines.
I have read many commentaries and books on many different subjects in my life and the one most valuable lesson I’ve learned in my 40+ years as a Christian is that what I understand when I read the Bible, always believing by faith that the Holy Spirit will lead me into all truth, is to take paramount place over all the words of men that I have read or heard. I will not negotiate on that point, to the point of death.
How can it be otherwise? The Holy Spirit is my teacher and can and will (indeed has already done so, often) discipline me when I go astray. God is a Holy God, a God to be feared with righteous awe, but He is also gracious and kind and I know He will always correct me when I need correction, so I will not allow any teaching of man to colour the way I read God’s Word. Does that mean I don’t question things in my life? Not at all, I constantly hold up my life and my thoughts to the light of the Word, to test them against what I read there. The Bible makes it crystal clear that we are to do that with every aspect of our lives as often as possible. We are told there to let scripture interpret scripture, not to let commentaries, or popular opinion, or church consensus, or the edicts of the NAR, or the Pope, or anyone else influence how we understand what is written in God’s Word.
A lot of the posts that tend toward a cessationist viewpoint, have made statements such as one pointing to the fact that missionaries have to go to school to learn languages.
What does that prove? That the gift of tongues is no longer active, or that these people are not really being called of God to be missionaries?
I have always had trouble believing that God calls someone to be a missionary, then expects that person to fund their own trip with cake stalls, etc, or by begging from various congregations for financial support for the work that God has called them to do.
If God wants someone to be a missionary, whatever their needs are, God will meet them. It’s God’s work they about after all, not their own, nor that of the church that sent them out. Just because we do things backwards nowadays, doesn’t mean that God intends us to do so, but rather shows His graciousness in still blessing missionary work that is carried out very much in the strength of the missionaries, rather than the strength of the Lord.
Actually, the idea that we from the ‘enlightened’ Western world countries have to go to the poor countries to take the gospel to the masses, has led to much that is not biblical in the missionary fields of the world, starting as it does with pride. There are a number of missionary societies that do things differently, they train Christian people in Asia, South America, Africa(?), Eastern Europe, China, and others, to be missionaries to their own people, so there is no need for such language training. However, I have no problem believing, from what I read in the Bible, that God may use the gift of tongues in that way today.
Much has been made of the ‘SIGN’ element here and the same thing is said of miracles, and other spiritual gifts; that they were for a sign to others because they didn’t have the scriptures, but we do have the scriptures, so we no longer need the signs. I find that a little (actually a lot) hard to swallow, because Paul commends the Bereans for their searching of the scriptures to test his words to them. What we call the Old Testament was the Bible for the people of those days, so to say that they needed signs because they didn’t have bibles is incorrect. Also, Jesus rebuked those that asked Him for a sign, because they had already been given all the signs God deemed necessary and still didn’t believe He was the Messiah. Many of that generation were still alive at the time of the events in Acts and even a few would’ve been around at the time Paul wrote to Corinth, so don’t attach too much weight to the horse of ‘signs’. The hyper pentecostal NAR and their ilk all talk up the ‘signs’ angle too. 😉
The verses where Paul talks of ALL speaking in tongues is referring to them all speaking in tongues at the same time, which of course isn’t edifying to anyone even if they weren’t speaking in tongues. He then goes on to say that tongues should be spoken out once, twice, at the most three times, in an orderly manner, with interpretation following each utterance. This is also evidence that the person speaking has the control over whether or not to speak out in tongues, because the instruction is redundant if the Holy Spirit is the instigator of any utterance in tongues. I’m sure He knows how to do things in order!
Conversely, Paul makes it clear that the people are to exercise restraint in the exercising of their gifts. (Note once again that none of these people were Apostles, so the idea that tongues were only for Apostles is here done away with. Verse 28 says let those who have the gift speak to themselves and to God, which cannot mean anything but what it says; that the use of tongues can be exercised on a personal level. The injunction in the beginning of this verse is against speaking out publicly when there is no-one present to interpret it for the hearers in the congregation, but this latter part of the verse tells the believer to exercise his or her gift in a private fashion. It cannot mean anything else. The following verse gives instruction about the exercising of the gift of prophecy, saying that there should be no more than two or three such utterances and that they should be judged by others present, whether or not they are of the Holy Spirit or from some other source. Verse 32 below that tells us that the prophetic gift is under the control of the person speaking, so as to avoid a situation where many people prophesy at once, again creating confusion. Many times you will hear people such as Rodney Howard Browne say something like; “Don’t think about it, just let the Spirit take control and start speaking, cast off restraint.” which is clearly spoken against in this verse. So, while the Holy Spirit is clearly not someone who we should resist, the idea that therefore such restraint is wrong is shown here to be contrary to the Bible’s teaching on how to conduct yourself if you have such a gift. The final two verses; 39 & 40, say that we should covet (strong word) to prophesy and we should not forbid people to speak in tongues, with the proviso that all things be done decently and in order. In other words, while the Holy Spirit is the one who gives the ability to speak out in tongues or prophecy, the decision on whether or not to do so is always under the control of the person concerned. The Holy Spirit will not compel people to do things which are out of line with these principles and against the over-riding principle of agape love, which seeks the best for everyone else, not the grandstanding of those who have been blessed with such gifts.
Addressing the issue of 1 Cor 13:8, where Paul speaks of these things ceasing, if we read the following verses, we see that Paul says we know in part and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. He continues over the next few verses to expand on that theme, which clearly talks of when Christ returns and brings the perfection we currently yearn for but lack. Of course there will be no need of spiritual gifts for edification, because all will be perfected, including us and our understanding and we will be complete, no longer in need of edification and encouragement, however, agape love will remain, being perfected also. To say that the gifts have ceased already, one must show that that which is perfect has already come according to this verse, which I hope no-one will claim. I know that there are those in the Latter Rain, or Manifest Sons of God cults that say that we will obtain that status before Jesus returns and even that some of them already have arrived at that state of perfection, but this is so obviously anti-scriptural it’s almost not worth the time to point it out. I’d say it’s laughable, but it’s more a matter for tears than laughter as far as I can see.
Sorry for the length of this post, but there is one more point I want to make here, then I’ll speak no more on this subject without invitation. I have learned that you can support just about any idea from scripture if you are determined to do so. In other words, if you have a particular agenda, such as promoting the idea of the Seventh Day Adventists that we experience ‘soul-sleep’ after we die, you can, if you try hard enough, find evidence to support your contention. You have to go against the majority of scriptural references to what happens after we die, but you can still do it. The same goes for many other doctrinal differences. There is an excellent article on this subject by a guy called Dusty Peterson, called “Beware False Balances”. In it he shows that while the majority of scriptural references to a particular issue will teach you what God wants you to know about the subject, there are always one or two verses that will allow someone to believe something different about that same subject.
‘Soul-sleep’ is one such example that is easy to point to. Although the weight of scripture clearly tells us that when we die as believers we go to be the Lord, there are Paul’s mentions of those that have died being ‘asleep’, in the following verses (in no particular order); 1Cor 15:6, 1 Thes 4:13 & 15, 1 Cor 15:51, 1 Thess 4:14. The Seventh Day Adventists use these scriptures to ‘prove’ that ‘soul-sleep’ is a biblical teaching, which I hope we al agree it isn’t. For the sake of brevity I will give no other examples, but I can assure you that they are there for every doctrine.
This begs the question of why would God put those verses there like that and not just make the case an airtight one for what He wants us to believe? The answer lies in the various references to searching for the Truth in the Bible as if one were digging for treasure. Searching diligently, with a love of the truth such as is referred to in 2 Thess 2:10. Why does God want us to receive the love of the truth? Because He identifies Himself with the truth to the extent that Jesus said I am the Truth. Those that don’t love the truth, will be sent a strong delusion so that they will believe a lie. By God no less! The value He puts on truth is so high that He is not going to just parcel it up in a neat package for anyone who is not prepared to expend every effort to find it, but has made it available only to those who will seek diligently, with all their heart. Those who have the same high regard for truth that He has. Those who wish to be lazy and not seek diligently will find in the Bible those things that they wish to find and be led astray, having their ears tickled, but those who are prepared to lay all else aside and earnestly seek for the truth with all their hearts, will find it. We shall know the truth and the truth will set us free.
I will gladly post the URL for the page where you can find Dusty’s article, but not without Deb’s permission. I feel like I may be in for a roasting already! 🙂
I leave you with these words from Romans 15;5 & 6; “Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to to Christ Jesus: That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
And from 2 Cor 13:14:- “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost , be with you all. Amen.”
God bless you all so very richly,
Alan.
Alan
Lots of stuff in your comment I don’t agree with.
You say many Gnostics believed tongues had ceased. True but what does that mean? Augustine believed Jesus was crucified does that now make it incorrect? No, so let’s exclude this argument.
You can’t use Corinthians as an example to say that the gift of tongues is for today. Paul spoke to them for ‘that time’ only – before the Bible had been written. So in context yes, tongues were practiced and the Corinthains were abusing it.
Paul then says these things will cease, along with prophecy once the Word of God is written.
Since then tongues were not heard again until the 1700’s with the French Prophets in Europe and then again in 1906 with 2 prophetesses in a charismatic church. When will tonuges and prophecy be heard again? When the Holy Spirit falls on the Jews again during the trubulation.
All I can say Allan is that I do not know your heart, just as you do not know mine – none of us know eachothers hearts. We can’t convince eachother that there are things in our lives that might or might not be Godly. Only the conviction of the Holy Spirit will lead us to believe which will lead us to get rid of these things through repentance. So I am gonna leave it at that with much love!
I also want to emphasise that fellowship on this blog is not unbreakable. It’s not a club nor is there any gang (Sorry BL just had to use your words – it’s not aimed at you). We speak the TRUTH in LOVE always BECAUSE we CARE, not because we once laughed and now that means we have to remain silent on issues such as this. Lord knows how many people have crossed our path that seemed so nice, yet were far from nice in the end. Then there are those who are dear to our hearts and I will fight with them and get upset with them because of things that will lead them astray and it’s my duty to tell them so – however there does come a time when you have to step back and just pray.
Hi Deb, Thanks for your gracious words above. It is hard is it not to speak contrary to a brother os sister in Christ.
I agree with your words on those who become abusive when challenged about something.
I believe it shows their true nature, because we are called to be teachable, and to esteem one another higher than ourselves and such people as get abusive are obviously not walking in the way of the Lord, at least not while they behave that way.
I believe that our highest priority as Christians is to love God with all our heart and to love our neighbours as ourselves.
We are called also to grow in the Lord, allowing the Holy Spirit to make us more like Christ, to pray like Him, speak like Him, love others like Him.
Jesus said out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks, so when a person speaks cruel words, intending to cause hurt, it is then we see what is in their heart.
I have seen a few of the poisonous posts you have received and I know first hand the hurt it causes when you are accused of being mean, arrogant, self-righteous, and worse, when all you are trying to do is warn people because you love them. The very proof of your love is thrown back in your face and called abuse. It is heartbreaking, I know because it has happened to me also.
I pray God will so richly bless you and your family that such hurts will be soothed by His loving care, as I’m sure you have experienced already. I Praise God for your faithfulness to live according to His ways.
Shalom,
Alan.
Being a Christian for many years has taught me to be wary of contraversial issues that people spend so much time debating about instead of spreading the gospel of God’s salvation.
When something becomes an issue and takes one away from the main theme then it is best prayed about and then left at the foot of the cross and then move on to the purpose of saving men’s souls for the kingdom with the true gospel.It’s a case of getting priorities in order.
I have heard whole sermons preached on issues like tongues or…is it permissable to drink wine…and many other debates that are time wasting and bear no relation to the message of the cross.
Satan loves to get us involved in disputes and deviations that bear no witness to the Saviour dying for our sins and the hope of being born – again.
Michael
Micheal we cannot save men’s souls that is up to God alone. We cannot take God’s work from His hands. We must preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ only and take it to the world. We are told also that other men will come and preach a different Gospel.Galatians 1:7 and Galatians 1:9 and 1 John 2:4. It is so obvious that todays church is growing cold to the true Gospel and men only want to hear that which they see as pleasing and gratifying. 2 Timothy 4:3 (Amplified Bible) 3 For the time is coming when [people] will not tolerate (endure) sound and wholesome instruction, but, having ears itching [for something pleasing and gratifying], they will gather to themselves one teacher after another to a considerable number, chosen to satisfy their own liking and to foster the errors they hold,
I cannot agree with your statement “we must move to the purpose of saving men’s souls for the kingdom with the true gospel”.
The the reason for this article is actually to warn about that in today’s churches people are being mislead to expect that one must be able to speak in tongues it has become a prerequisite in most of these big churches and that is just absurd. There is nothing wrong with discussing the subject as long as we as Christians can do so in love. I for one have learned a great deal about this subject as it took me to the Scriptures where we find only the truth. Thanking every body here for their little bit of input on this subject. We can only watch and pray and test all things to see whether they proceed from God as we are told. 1 John 4:1
[ Test the Spirits ] Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.
Hey Elmarie…you misunderstand what I said “with the true gospel”…that is the ingedient…I was certainly not implying man’s power merely his effort…as we are just instruments and it is God that does the work…it is not “by might,not by power but by my spirit…says the Lord of hosts…Zech 4:6.
You misunderstand me…I agree to what you say…it is just getting our priorities in order…over emphasis on secondary issues get us off the main path if you understand my meaning,thank you sister I know you mean well.
Sorry …”ingredient”…should check my spelling before sending
Michael
Thank you for clearing that up. 🙂
I believe there are born again Christians in Pente churches but that said hopefully with time they will come to know the truth, that tongues were earthly languages. I used to take the middle of the road avenue, that tongues were a gift given to some but not for all. With time and visits to Pente churches and more Bible study, I came to the same conclusions in the article. I used to visit Pente churches and in every one, ended up walking out feeling uncomfortable, the tongues always sounded like how it would sound if someone was told to pretend to speak a fake language. I do not think the people are guilty they really believe in it, but with many it’s induced with suggestion. One Pente I used to know would tell me I needed to clear my mind out, and empty it from all distractions and NOT think in Words. I told him that is what they told me when I was a UU Theosophist [Im an ex Catholic as well] before I became a Christian. Meditation techniques, empty your mind-give up control. My reaction was to say FORGET IT!
Hi everyone,I would just like to say one thing, that I would rather die than offend my God in anyway or fall out of His Grace,thank-you for pointing out many valid points, that are not unknown to me, Id rather give everything up than be in error, so I will, and see where the Spirit leads me.the Truth will always prevail at the end.
God bless you all
Biblebeliever
I agree. And I agree too that there are many in these churches that are slowly realising there is something horribly wrong but don’t know where to turn to for help because around ever corner lies more lies and persuasion. But the Holy Spirit within these born again Christians are warning them and they will escape sooner rather than later.
What these churches used to preach is no longer. What was is no longer. And unfortunately born again Christians are a drop in the ocean compared to the wild fire that has spread over people in the church.
Regarding someone who speaks in tongues but it saved, the Holy Spirit will convict them when they learn the truth on the matter and if they are willing to listen to Him they will stop with His help. Some people might not listen at first but sooner than later they will realised something is not right.
One little sin will always lead to another little sin and so on…
Satan will always make sure he convicts you for the opposite of what the Holy Spirit convicts you for. Satan will say, keep the tongues, Holy Spirit will tell you to get rid of them because they serve no purpose.
Speaking to God in English or what ever language you speak makes more sense to me because I know what I am saying. If I am not 100% sure what I am doing in not pleasing God I will abandon it immediately. What does that leave us with I am sure someone will ask. Well it leaves us with reading the Bible 🙂
Jemah
Thank you. I hope it’s easier for you than me and my earring problem. lol
Michael
You can’t be serious? Tongues speaking today is a very very serious issue along with everything else that can trap a person and lead them off the narrow path.
Precisely…With respect..you misunderstand my context…that is why it is best ignored…and buried…it is a smokescreen or red-herring that the devil uses to take us off the real message of the scriptures.
Michael
I get what you’re saying but these things can’t be ignored – they need to be spoken about. Many people, millions are under the impression that it’s correct. Because you understand it does not mean others do. It’s like saying, lets not speak about false teachers – they are red herrings.
Be aware that God is not mocked!He is the same yesterday, today, and forever! He never changes, glory to God! Jesus plainly tells in scripture that a Helper would be sent and He was! He said that with the Holy Spirit we would do even mightier things than He! The reason this is foolishness to people is because the Spirit of God is not in them to discern the spiritual things of God! God said to not forbid the “speaking in tongues” which is not an earthly language like some believe. Praying in the spirit builds up the inner man! Also,God says we know not how to pray as we ought. Praying with only human wisdom is like limiting God to our thoughts. Why would we do that? His thoughts are higher than our thoughts and His ways are higher than our ways! Why question God’s integrity? He sent the Holy Spirit to help us pray among other things! The baptisim of the Holy Ghost with the evidence of speaking in “tongues” is necessary to being enabled to live the true christian life! The Holy Spirit helps us to pray! If we say it’s just another earthly language you are still limiting God to human wisdom! We ought not ever do that! We are to always go into everything with prayers and supplication always praying in the Spirit “praying in tongues” Christians ought not start arguments over scripture or condem anyone but correct with kindness. Some are blinded to the deep spiritual things of God because of the rejection of the Holy Spirit! I pray that all who get before God in prayer and ask Him for enlightenment on this subject!He will tell you! It’s up to you if you will open your heart to be attentive to what He tells you! Don’t take us “tongu talkers” word for it! Take God’s Word as Truth!Jesus is coming back very soon! Open your heart to the truth before the tribulation and don’t reject the gifts of God! Be enlighted to God’s Word, not man’s! Peace to all who listen to what the Spirit of God is saying on this!
christina
May I ask you which church you attend?
Christina
I have possibly answered your type of comment a hundred times. But for the sake of helping you out, I will answer these questions again.
1) When Jesus said we would go greater things than He, He was speaking about spreading the Gospel, NOT doing GREATER miracles than HIM. If you want to be better than Jesus Christ then there is a serious problem.
2) It’s clear from SCRIPTURE ABOVE (Used from the Bible) you know that Book that contains Words DIRECTLY FROM GOD that TONGUES HAS STOPPED. Yes God is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow but He SAID that tongues have ceased therefore they have stopped.
3) Jesus said he would send the Holy Spirit as our helper and the Holy Spirit abides in born again Christians. This is true. So what’s your point? This does not make tongues valid for today.
4) Pentecost was a once off occurrence. The next time it happens again is during the tribulation and the Holy Spirit will overcome Jews and they will prophecy and dream and have visions as per the completing of the prophecy of Joel 2 and Acts. Open your BIBLE and study it for yourself Christina and stop slurping up false teachers garbage so they can pass off a false spirit as the Holy Spirit.
4) Of course God’s wisdom is greater than ours, but He has clearly said that tongues has STOPPED so what part of your wisdom that GOD GAVE YOU to understand His commandments are you not wanting to listen too?
5) Christians are to TEST, REBUKE, EXTORT those who preach false teaching. Just like Paul rebuked the Corinthian church for doing EXACTLY what the church you attend is doing.
6) TESTING as commanded by the Word of God as per 1 John 4:1-6 is NOT mocking God, nor is it blaspheming the Holy Spirit. I think the next person that says this to me I will automatically trash their comments. In fact Christina you mock God by NOT reading your BIBLE. I guaranteed you, you did not even read my article because if you did you would NOT be speaking the nonsense you are speaking. If you read my article you would notice there are verses FROM THE BIBLE (that you choose to IGNORE).
7) You are blinded Christina.
8) The Holy Spirit helps us to pray when we can’t. Is this audible? NO. READ YOUR BIBLE CHRISTINA.
Next time you comment, I request you quote scripture to back up each and every single one of your arguments in CONTEXT. If you can’t do this, then you have a problem Christina because God tells us that we need to study His Word to find ourselves approved. Have you His stamp of approval? I’ll leave that up to you to decided.
9) Jesus Christ is surely coming back soon to rapture His church. You have a couple of years left to start reading your Bible Christina and getting your life in order. Let us pray you do not loose your life tonight.
I simply meant get God’s priorities in order…subjective issues without clarity become “camels”…the Lord Jesus Christ admonished the pharisees…”you strain at gnats but swallow camels”.
Tongues used to be a huge issue with me…the way the charismatics emphasized it…but when I saw the unholiness in the churches and worldliness of the members therein it became as clear as daylight that this is not of God’s spirit.
Logically I began to read the Gospels carefully with a sincere heart and it became obvious that if tongues was what the charismatics believe to endow them to live holy and perfect lives then a) Why did Jesus not emphasize this…indeed He never even mentioned it and b) why is it that those who insist on it as a quick fix to lead holy and sinless lives…live the very opposite…this is real hypocrisy…and Jesus attacked hypocrisy with such zeal and c)the final straw came when I discovered the blatant lies that seemed common in charismatic leaders like Benny Hinn and his gang and locally the Angus Buchan story…very personal knowledge.
When you get to these sort of cross-roads in your life you are tired of superficiality…tired of inconsistencies,insincerity and you discover there is absolutely no integrity left in this so-called universal church. This is the biggest mockery of God.
So I buried tongues once and for all and got on with the business of loving God and my fellowman. I also began to realise that the walk with God is not easy but indeed a pilgrims progress and the more I saught God out the more He revealed my sinfulness and I have become totally dependant on Him…pride started to be edged away and I am free from all this non-sense. I read very few Christian books nowadays as most of them I do not trust. On the otherhand I read the scriptures daily as they are the only lamp I trust. TV preachers I never entertain.
Michael
I understand.
Michael
Thank you for sharing with us. The gate is narrow and the Word also says and few are those who find it. The Amplified Bible calls it contracted by pressure and straitened and compressed .
Matthew 7:13-15 (Amplified Bible)
13 Enter through the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and spacious and broad is the way that leads away to destruction, and many are those who are entering through it.
14 But the gate is narrow (contracted [a]by pressure) and the way is straitened and compressed that leads away to life, and few are those who find it.(A)
15 Beware of false prophets, who come to you dressed as sheep, but inside they are devouring wolves.(B)
Thanks Deborah, yes there are many in those churches knowing something is off. When I left the local Calvary Chapel {I really am a fundamentalist Christian but got desperate for Christian fellowship since there are few like me here}some families admitted to me in the church, they were staying even knowing stuff was off, because they said to me “Where else are we going to go?” There is a price to be paid for leaving false churches, which I believe one is to do in obedience to God, but some people have made the choice, to stay, [not saying I agree] but understand what leads them there, having some fellowship, and thinking of children they want raised in a church.
They don’t know where to go. I was in a decent fundie church…but here there really is nowhere, for the discerning Christian to go. Some remote possibilities are 50 miles away but not everyone has health or money to go that far.
I believe the Holy Spirit is warning many of them even if they are not acting on it. Even a newly saved believer I witnessed to told me the churches here were so bad, he didnt know where to go. It is very sad, this place is empty even of home fellowships that can be found out about.
I believe Christians are coming out of churches in general and know several in my position.
Believe like you, with some the Holy Spirit will convict them. I know a lady who was saved and got out of the Charismatic movement: He will tell his people.
I have considered choices, that went against Bible, and had to be convicted. One thing that can be sin for me is secular TV shows and movies, and sometimes even fiction books–that are full of wicked things–[and getting worse] I love to read. The other day, I didnt put one down and kept reading though at other times have put them down. Some of the fiction even innocent looking on outside is getting scary!
One little sin will lead to another and another. We all need to listen to God. When I left Calvary Chapel, I knew the music was bad, knew the sermons were neo-evangelical fluff, but actually fought God over it, saying “I can’t be without fellowship”, that went on for acouple weeks and then knew I had to do His will.
But yes it applies in many things in life and in churches.
I agree about speaking to God in language you can understand. Being told odd stuff about opening my mind and emptying it in prayer so the “language of angels” could enter it freaked me out. I discerned no difference from what I was told in the UU, and in occult meditation.
Christians need to be told to never do anything they feel unsure of, there are many out there who will use emotion and more to sell false things. Yes go read the Bible instead 🙂
BB
Sorry did not get to read your blog, I will look at it today. I got carried away with other things and lost track of time…
thank you Debs! I believe this is specially for someone like me? LOL! c
C
Which part?
D, i was referring to the little icons (I think that is what they’re called?) that you’ve put a-top the comment box for a short while… and now they’re gone, and I have to use my head again to think how to make things bold, etc. all the “extra’s” – lol!
C
Ahhhh those, yeah, sorry, I had to take them away. They caused all sorts of conflict with my website code ‘sniffs’.
To do bold. < b > kljfdjfskj < / b > but don’t use spaces. test it, if you make a mess I will fix it from my side and them tell you what you did wrong.