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Christians are divided over the biblical story of speaking in tongues because different people have different ideas about what it means to speak in a different tongue. Many Bible translations and interpretations have been used in the debate, which has led to various points of view on the event. The concept of speaking in tongues can be explained by two different theories.

Theory 1: Speaking unknown Languages

This theory suggests that the disciples spoke in languages that were unknown or unintelligible to humans, often considered a manifestation of spiritual ecstasy or a divine language. This interpretation is common in some Pentecostal and charismatic traditions.

Theory 2: Speaking in Known Languages

According to this perspective, speaking in tongues at Pentecost was a practical miracle that enabled the disciples to communicate the gospel across language barriers. This view is supported by Acts 2:8-11, which states that people from various regions hear the disciples speaking in their native languages. This interpretation shows how God wants to reach people from different backgrounds through the gospel.

What is Speaking in Tongues and its True Purpose?

After the Great Flood, humanity shared a single language until the Tower of Babel incident, where God intervened and created multiple languages to prevent unity in rebellion. This event, documented by Flavius Josephus, led to a mass migration and the development of distinct civilizations, resulting in approximately 6,500 languages today.

The language barrier posed a challenge for the early Christian church, but God granted the followers of Christ the miraculous ability to speak in various languages (glossolalia) during the Feast of Pentecost. This phenomenon enabled believers to communicate the gospel message across linguistic and cultural boundaries, fostering unity and praise.

The Pentecost event marked a stark contrast to the Tower of Babel, where God’s goodness enabled people to unite in praising His holy name. The apostles could convey the word of God without difficulty, overcoming language barriers. The Apostle Paul highlighted the significance of speaking in tongues as a sign for unbelievers, crucial for spreading the gospel message to all nations.

Many modern Christians misconstrue the meaning of speaking in tongues, often equating it with murmuring in unknown languages. However, the Bible shows that speaking in tongues is a divine gift that enables effective communication across languages. In 1 Corinthians 12:28-30, Paul clarifies that spiritual gifts, including tongues, are diversely distributed by the Spirit. The gift of tongues allows believers to speak and comprehend known languages, facilitating the spread of the gospel.

Read more: Exposed: Speaking in tongues is satanic and does not mean you are filled with the Holy Spirit

The misconception about speaking in tongues has led to confusion, with some pastors claiming their unintelligible utterances are inspired by the Holy Spirit. This contradicts Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 14:33, “God is not the author of confusion, but of peace.”

The true purpose of speaking in tongues is not to cause confusion, but to facilitate effective communication. Many people misuse this gift, speaking in unknown languages without interpretation or understanding. This can lead to chaos and self-exaltation, rather than edifying the church.

The Bible warns against seeking spiritual experiences for personal gain or to appear superior to others. Gifts are given to help the church grow and spread God’s message, not to boost individual ego. We should humbly seek and use our gifts to serve others and advance God’s kingdom.