Speaking in tongues in the Bible refers to the supernatural ability to speak in real, known human languages not previously learned by the speaker. This gift is first seen on the day of Pentecost. Acts 2:4–6 says:
“And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance… everyone heard them speak in his own language.”
These were not unintelligible or ecstatic utterances, but understandable languages spoken by the power of the Holy Spirit for the purpose of proclaiming the works of God. The gift served as a sign to unbelieving Jews and confirmed the inclusion of Gentiles into the body of Christ (see Acts 10:44–46, Acts 19:6).
Paul explains in 1 Corinthians 14:22:
“Therefore tongues are for a sign, not to those who believe but to unbelievers.”
Tongues were always to be used in an orderly and edifying way. Paul gives strict guidelines: only two or three should speak, each in turn, and only if an interpreter is present. If there is no interpretation, the speaker must remain silent (1 Corinthians 14:27–28). Paul also makes clear that not all believers are given this gift (1 Corinthians 12:30).
The purpose of tongues is not self-promotion or emotional display. Spiritual gifts are given to glorify God and edify the church, not to elevate individuals. 1 Corinthians 12:7 says:
“But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all.”
While the sign gifts may still be active according to God’s will, they are not normative, necessary, or practical in the same way they were during the early formation of the church. God may choose to use tongues for His purposes, but they are not the standard or the proof of spirituality. The Word of God is the believer’s foundation, not signs.
Any use of tongues today must follow biblical guidelines, glorify Christ, and never contradict the order or clarity commanded in Scripture.
