Speaking in tongues 1

• Speaking in tongues is the mystical (supernatural) utterance through the power of the Holy Spirit in a person that manifests as spiritual language.

• Through language and music, the Holy Spirit empowers the believer to be edified (built, restored, grow).

Jesus told Peter that upon the rock (upon the revelation hat Jesus was the Christ, Son of the Living God), He was to build His church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it (Matthew 16:18). We are part of the church and one of the ways God makes us grow spiritually is through speaking in tongues.

When the Holy Spirit enables you to utter in tongues, you speak in foreign language(s) that you have never learnt or studied, a language which those without the gift of interpretation could not understand. In (Acts 2) Day of Pentecost, When the Holy Spirit came upon the believers; they began to speak in foreign languages. God outpoured His Spirit so that we may be witnesses and prophesy (build the church).

• There are different gifts, yet only one Spirit; therefore, there is need for us all to be united. Some members of the church in Corinth uttered tongues that no man could understand (which led to arguments and disarray), and Apostle Paul attended to this (I Corinthians 12:4-11). This led to controversy and division. Paul tried to unite the church, assuring the church that there are different gifts but only one Spirit (I Corinthians 12:4-11).

There are 3 types of Tongues:

1. An unknown tongue unto God (I Corinthians 14:2).

• For self edification (I Corinthians 14:4; Jude 20).

• Aid in prayer (Romans 8:26-27).

• Increases the prophetic ministry when interpreted (I Corinthians 14:5).

• Revives your soul (Isaiah 28:11-12).

• Conquering the enemy (Ephesians 6:18).

• Helps you worship in the Spirit (I Corinthians 14:14-15). While singing in the Spirit,, God sings along and defeats the enemy (Isaiah 30:29-31).

• Breaking the yoke of bondage (Acts 16:25-26).

• Bringing you into the presence of God (Psalm 22:3).

• Aiding you in intercession (Romans 8:26)

2. A known tongue that is a sign to unbelievers (I Corinthians 14:2; Acts 2:6).

3. A tongue that is understood through interpretation (another gift if the Holy Spirit).

Article by Sheunopa Matambo