Written by Pastor Dave Collins

Speaking in tongues is one of the nine gifts of the Holy Spirit, often referred to as the “ministry” or “manifestation” gifts as listed in 1 Corinthians 12:8-10. Speaking in tongues, or “glossolalia” (from the Greek glossa, meaning “tongue” or “language”), is the spiritual gift of speaking in languages unknown to the speaker, either as a form of prayer or as a miraculous ability to communicate God’s message. The gift is given for the edification of the Church and for communication with God. Speaking in tongues, or praying in the Spirit, occurs when a Christian allows the indwelling Holy Spirit to guide and form the words he speaks. It is not a case of divine ventriloquism but one of faith and collaboration. “All of them...began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.” (Acts 2:4)

The Apostle Paul describes the gift as “various...or different...kinds of tongues” (v. 10), meaning there are several kinds and uses of the gift. The language spoken may be a known language, either past or present, or even a heavenly language. In most instances, the one speaking in tongues does not specifically understand what he is saying. It is easy to see that speaking in tongues does not necessarily require the brain to be actively engaged; however, one’s spirit, with its sensitivity to God’s heart, discernment, and love, often gives the speaker a deep sense of the gist of the message. Paul also encourages those who exercise this gift to pray for understanding. (1 Corinthians 14:14-15)

Generally speaking, there are three distinct uses of the gift of tongues. The first is when the tongue is not understood by the speaker, is not interpreted, but is understood in the language of the hearer. This occurred on the Day of Pentecost, “And how is it that we hear, each in our own language in which we were born?” (Acts 2:4-8) This is meant to be a sign of the Kingdom of God to the unbeliever. (1 Corinthians 14:22) The second usage of the gift of tongues is in the public worship of God. Again, the language is not understood by the speaker; however, the manifestation of the gift of interpretation of tongues immediately follows so that all may receive the blessing of God’s message. (1 Corinthians 14:27)

The third and most common use of the gift of tongues is as one’s personal “prayer language.” It could be said that tongues is primarily a devotional gift; one which greatly assists the Believer’s ability to worship, magnify and offer petitions to God. (1 Corinthians 14:2; Romans 8:26) It is also unique in that this gift edifies (builds up, encourages and blesses) the speaker. (1 Corinthians 14:4) Although there is no Scriptural record of Paul speaking in tongues in public, he made it very clear that he exercised the gift and encouraged all Believers to do likewise. (1 Corinthians 14:18; 5a)