Bible Question (short): A bit confused regarding tongues |
Question (full): After reading at great lengths the many post regarding speaking in tongues, I find myself a bit confused. Having spoken to a friend of mine, who shortly after being Baptised, was being pursuaded by a fellow Christian to speak in tongues. I am now left with questions. First, was speaking in tongues meant for the people of that time? Does tongues mean, "speaking in a language other than your own?" Or is tongues a heavenly language? From the posts I read, it is my understanding that tongues are for believers and non-believers. Can the speaking of tongues be taught to other Christians? And if so, how would one know if what they are being taught or hearing is the true "tongues"? It would make more sense to me, for one to be given the "Gift" to speak in other languages other than their own. Having such a gift would perhaps enable a Christian to speak the word of God to those who speak, Spanish, French, etc. In doing so, both believers and non believer would hear the word. In the learning that I am doing, I am finding that a great deal of what is written is somewhat difficult to apply fulling in this time. Maybe I am wrong. But that is another post for a later time. Please keep in mind that I feel that all of you are my teachers and I welcome everyones views and opinions. God Bless you all. |