Introduction

The purpose of this study is to examine the spiritual gift of speaking in tongues from a Biblical perspective. Our main areas of focus will be the nature, purpose, and duration of tongues. In order to understand these aspects of tongue speaking, we will examine their use in the Bible and throughout church history. Further investigation will center upon the modern day Charismatic / Pentecostal movement. Our interest in them lies solely in their claims that the charismata was not intended to be confined to the Apostolic age only, but that believers of all time periods should partake of these spiritual gifts. While our goal is not necessarily to dismantle the footing that Charismatics and Pentecostals stand on, we must, by necessity of this study, examine it. We shall soon see whether their house was built upon a rock or sand.

The need for this study arises, in part, from the increased interest in, and pursuit of, the charismata listed by Paul in 1 Corinthians 12:8-10. If it’s true that the charismata was intended for all Christians of every age then we have no reason to be alarmed. In fact, if such is the case, we should ourselves become like the charismatic. If the opposite is true and it can be proven that tongues and the rest of the sign gifts were intended only for the Apostolic age, then indeed a considerable misconception has taken millions of believers captive; a misconception which needs to be corrected lest it be allowed to further infiltrate the body of Christ and mislead it.

Further need for this study stems from the lack of agreement in regards to the continuation and nature of this gift. While no Bible believing Christian denies the validity of tongues being used by the apostles, contention arises over whether this gift is available for believers today. In addition, believers are also at odds as to the nature of the gift itself. Were the tongues being spoken actual human languages, angelic languages, individual prayer languages, or a combination of all? While these are two of the most contested aspects of speaking in tongues, there are many more to be considered, all of which we will discuss at length.

It would be foolish to imagine that this study would serve as the final word on tongues; my hopes for this study are not so lofty. My hope is, however, that by taking the time to thoroughly exegete all relative passages and thus allow the Bible to speak for itself, we can come to some biblical conclusions about this ever contested doctrine. I am not attempting to convince anyone of my convictions, necessarily, but rather to make known what Scripture has to say about this doctrine. Some who read this study will have their view of tongues confirmed, others will have theirs challenged. But regardless of your current position, my prayer is that this study will be of value to you and that it’ll be a blessing to your life.

If you find your beliefs being challenged by what you read, I hope that you will consider the matter thoroughly and prayerfully. We must always remember that its Scripture, not our feelings, traditions, or past experiences, that has the final say in what is true.