Is Speaking In Tongue Scriptural? Series

Tongue speaking, also known as glossolalia, is a controversial practice that has been debated among Christians for centuries. While some claim it is a spiritual gift, others argue it is not supported by Scripture. In this sermon, we will explore the biblical objections to tongue speaking.

Lack of Clear Biblical Support

- The Bible does not provide clear instructions or examples of tongue speaking as a spiritual gift (1 Corinthians 12:4-11, Romans 12:3-8).

- The apostle Paul, who wrote extensively on spiritual gifts, never mentioned tongue speaking as a desirable or essential gift (1 Corinthians 12-14, Ephesians 4:11-12).

Misinterpretation of Tongues in Acts and Corinthians

- The "tongues" in Acts 2:4-12 and 1 Corinthians 12-14 refer to known languages, not ecstatic utterances (Acts 2:6-12, 1 Corinthians 14:22-23).

Acts 2:6-12 - "When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard their own language being spoken. Utterly amazed, they asked: ‘Aren’t all these who are speaking Galileans? Then how is it that each of us hears them in our native language?’"

In Acts 2:4-12, the disciples spoke in known languages, allowing them to communicate with people from various nations.

Explanation: In this passage, the disciples spoke in known languages, not ecstatic utterances. This contradicts the modern practice of tongue speaking.

1 Corinthians 14:22 - "Tongues, then, are a sign, not for believers but for unbelievers; prophecy, however, is not for unbelievers but for believers."

Explanation: This verse indicates that tongues are a sign for unbelievers, not believers. If tongue speaking were a legitimate spiritual gift, it would be for the benefit of believers, not unbelievers.

- The purpose of tongues in these passages was for communication and evangelism, not personal edification or worship (Acts 2:11, 1 Corinthians 14:22-23).

Paul's Warning Against Unintelligible Speech

- Paul warned against speaking in a language that no one understands, calling it "talking into the air" (1 Corinthians 14:9, 23).

1 Corinthians 14:9 - "So it is with you. Unless you speak intelligible words with your tongue, how will anyone know what you are saying? You will just be speaking into the air."

Explanation: This verse emphasizes the importance of intelligible speech. If tongue speaking is a legitimate spiritual gift, why would Paul warn against speaking in a language that no one understands?

1 Corinthians 14:19 - "But in the church I would rather speak five intelligible words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue."

Explanation: Paul prioritizes clear communication over tongue speaking. If tongue speaking were essential, why would Paul prefer to speak intelligibly?

- He emphasized the importance of intelligible speech for edification and understanding (1 Corinthians 14:15-19, 26-28).

The Priority of Clear Communication

- The Bible prioritizes clear communication and understanding in worship and ministry (1 Corinthians 14:15-19, 26-28, Ephesians 4:15).

- Tongue speaking can hinder this clarity and create confusion, contrary to Paul's instructions (1 Corinthians 14:33, 40).

Tongue speaking lacks clear biblical support, and its practice can be misinterpreted and misapplied. While the Bible encourages spiritual expression and worship, it prioritizes clear communication and understanding. As Christians, we should seek to edify and build each other up with intelligible speech, rather than engaging in practices that may create confusion or division.

1 Corinthians 12:29-30 - "Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret?"

Explanation: This verse lists various spiritual gifts, but tongue speaking is not essential or universal. If it were, Paul would not have asked rhetorical questions about its distribution.

Matthew 6:7 - "And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words."

Explanation: Jesus warns against babbling in prayer, which is similar to the modern practice of tongue speaking. If tongue speaking were legitimate, why would Jesus discourage excessive verbalization?

Native Language vs. Ecstatic Utterances

- If tongue speaking is a native language, why do practitioners often switch between different languages or utter sounds that don't form a coherent language?

- This inconsistency suggests that tongue speaking is not a genuine language, but rather a spiritualized form of gibberish.

The Gift of Interpretation

- If tongue speaking is a legitimate spiritual gift, why is the gift of interpretation often absent or neglected?

- The Bible links the gift of interpretation with tongue speaking (1 Corinthians 12:10, 14:13, 27-28), suggesting that both gifts should be practiced together. While 1 Corinthians 12-14 does mention the gift of tongues, it refers to known languages, not ecstatic utterances.

Tongue Speaking and Spiritual Maturity

- If tongue speaking is a sign of spiritual maturity or a deeper relationship with God, why do many believers who don't practice tongue speaking exhibit greater spiritual maturity and fruitfulness?