Bible Question: Discuss the meaning of the gift of tongues in this context ie: whether one is filled with the Holy ghost without this gift or whether it can be sought and bestowed. What is proof text for pro or con? |
Bible Answer: Greetings Bilever! Excellent question! While tongues is definitely one of many gifts of the Spirit, there simply isn't any verse which says that it is the evidence of the filling of the Holy Spirit. Many assume that it is because it appears so much in the book of Acts. For instance, when Peter preaches to the gentiles at Cornelius' house, he is conviced that they have been filled with the Holy Spirit because they spoke in tongues (Acts 10:46). However, there simply isn't any verse which specifically states that tongues is the evidence of being filled with the Holy Spirit or that all Christians will or can receive this gift. The best position seems to be that all Christians receive the Holy Spirit at salvation. Tongues is simply one of many gifts which God gives as He sees fit. It should not be exalted too much, nor should it be ignored. Your Brother in Christ, Tim Moran |