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NASB | 1 Corinthians 14:22 So then tongues are for a sign, not to those who believe but to unbelievers; but prophecy is for a sign, not to unbelievers but to those who believe. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | 1 Corinthians 14:22 Therefore, [unknown] tongues are [meant] for a [supernatural] sign, not to believers but to unbelievers [who might be receptive]; while prophecy [foretelling the future, speaking a new message from God to the people] is not for unbelievers but for believers. |
Bible Question: 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. |
Bible Answer: MPierce: Welcome to the Forum! Wow, you asked some really good questions, which shows me you are tring to know what being a Christian is all about. I would imagine there are a lot of answers given about speaking in tongues. To say there is great division about tongues is an understatement. Having said that, I have my own bias and it is from that view point I can only address as I understand tongues. I will try and make this brief and easy to follow, I hope. I believe Scripture teaches the following. Tongues is a gift of the Holy Spirit. We are not all given the same gifts. The gifts are to equip the body of Christ (the Church, born again, saved, Christians) for ministry. You don't ask for a gift, or it would not be a "gift". I do not recall ever hearing of Christians asking for the gift of "helps' or "hospitality" or "giving" and the list of the "gifts" goes on. Why do some "ask"? I can find no scriptual basis to ask for a gift of the Holy Spirit. I am perplexed how one can prove from Scripture speaking in tongues is to be taught to others. That would then be teaching others, would it not? How then is that a "gift of the Holy Spirit? In my opinion it is not a gift then, but a teaching. I believe there may well be the active "gift of tongues" if it is done as outlined in scripture. Often today we see the same person giving the meaning of the tongues after speaking in tongues. This is totally not done in line with what Scripture says. There must be the meaning given by some else or the tongues are false. When speaking in tongues is tied to proof of salvation I believe that is Biblically unfounded and becomes a way of making people say gibberish that is not from the Holy Spirit. As I stated there may well be the "gift of tongues" today, I believe tongues are genuine to a far less extent then most tongue talkers will admit,for in certian groups there is great pressure put on especially new Christians to prove they are saved by speaking anything to get the attention off themselves. Paul even said tongues was the least desireable gifts. Perhaps no other "gift" has caused more misunderstandings, and borken fellowship with other Christians than the "gift of tongues". I personally do not think speaking in tounges is reason to cause a brake in fellowship. There are many understandings and views by very well trained theologians, and they do not agree. So with respect for my other fellow Forum members I encourage you to move slowly and study the Word, and what ever conclusion you come to, which may change as you mature, have it based solidly on the Word. Blessings and pray for peace. justme |