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A
then why did Jesus say that tongues would follow those who believe??? thats not leaving anyone out thats saying all who believe those signs will follow
[h=3]Mark 16:17-18[/h]King James Version (KJV)
17 And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;
18 They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.
[h=3]Mark 16:17-18[/h]King James Version (KJV)
17 And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;
18 They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.
It's hard to know what you're talking about, because the bible uses the phrase "speaking in tongues" in two different ways. Speaking in tongues is demonstrated in Acts 2 with the disciples talking in such a way that everyone present heard their own language being spoken. This is the only place where it is spoken of, and there is no known case of this ever happening in real life.
The apostle Paul also talks about speaking in tongues, but clearly in a different context because the above use of the phrase obviously doesn't require "interpretation of tongues", but Paul's version of it does. He says that it is one of the "gifts of the spirit", things given to Christians upon conversion. But this is highly doubtful. For one thing, have you ever met someone endowed with such a gift? Pentecostals all claim to have it, but they clearly speak in glossolalia, or gibberish. The reason that we know this is because it's impossible to translate -- it's random and doesn't follow its own structure consistently, let alone a known language pattern.
Many people see speaking in tongues as a gift of the spirit, and the ability to speak a heavenly language or "language of the angels", but this would be easy to test if true -- we'd simply put several "interpreters" in a laboratory setting with the same recorded piece of dialogue and ask them to translate. It wouldn't be important what is said, as long as they all come to the same interpretation. As far as I know, this study has never been done because there aren't people brave enough to both claim to have this gift and have it tested. It's noteworthy that no internet site has ever claimed to have a method of deciphering, or an "english to heavenly dictionary".
The apostle Paul also talks about speaking in tongues, but clearly in a different context because the above use of the phrase obviously doesn't require "interpretation of tongues", but Paul's version of it does. He says that it is one of the "gifts of the spirit", things given to Christians upon conversion. But this is highly doubtful. For one thing, have you ever met someone endowed with such a gift? Pentecostals all claim to have it, but they clearly speak in glossolalia, or gibberish. The reason that we know this is because it's impossible to translate -- it's random and doesn't follow its own structure consistently, let alone a known language pattern.
Many people see speaking in tongues as a gift of the spirit, and the ability to speak a heavenly language or "language of the angels", but this would be easy to test if true -- we'd simply put several "interpreters" in a laboratory setting with the same recorded piece of dialogue and ask them to translate. It wouldn't be important what is said, as long as they all come to the same interpretation. As far as I know, this study has never been done because there aren't people brave enough to both claim to have this gift and have it tested. It's noteworthy that no internet site has ever claimed to have a method of deciphering, or an "english to heavenly dictionary".
Act 2:4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
Act 2:5 And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven.
Act 2:6 Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language.
Act 2:7 And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans?
Act 2:8 And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?
Act 2:9 Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia,
Act 2:10 Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes,
Act 2:11 Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God.
Languages, not gobbledygook.
Act 2:5 And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven.
Act 2:6 Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language.
Act 2:7 And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans?
Act 2:8 And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?
Act 2:9 Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia,
Act 2:10 Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes,
Act 2:11 Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God.
Languages, not gobbledygook.
A
[h=3]Prophecy and Tongues[/h]14 Pursue love, and desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy. 2 For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries. 3 But he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men.4 He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church. 5 I wish you all spoke with tongues, but even more that you prophesied; for[a] he who prophesies is greater than he who speaks with tongues, unless indeed he interprets, that the church may receive edification.
[h=3]Tongues Must Be Interpreted[/h]6 But now, brethren, if I come to you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you unless I speak to you either by revelation, by knowledge, by prophesying, or by teaching? 7 Even things without life, whether flute or harp, when they make a sound, unless they make a distinction in the sounds, how will it be known what is piped or played? 8 For if the trumpet makes an uncertain sound, who will prepare for battle? 9 So likewise you, unless you utter by the tongue words easy to understand, how will it be known what is spoken? For you will be speaking into the air. 10 There are, it may be, so many kinds of languages in the world, and none of them is without significance. 11 Therefore, if I do not know the meaning of the language, I shall be a foreigner to him who speaks, and he who speakswill be a foreigner to me. 12 Even so you, since you are zealous for spiritual gifts, let it be for the edification of the church that you seek to excel.
13 Therefore let him who speaks in a tongue pray that he may interpret. 14 For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful. 15 What is the conclusion then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding. I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding. 16 Otherwise, if you bless with the spirit, how will he who occupies the place of the uninformed say “Amen” at your giving of thanks, since he does not understand what you say?17 For you indeed give thanks well, but the other is not edified.
18 I thank my God I speak with tongues more than you all; 19 yet in the church I would rather speak five words with my understanding, that I may teach others also, than ten thousand words in a tongue.
[h=3]Tongues a Sign to Unbelievers[/h]20 Brethren, do not be children in understanding; however, in malice be babes, but in understanding be mature.
21 In the law it is written:
“With men of other tongues and other lips
I will speak to this people;
And yet, for all that, they will not hear Me,”[b]
says the Lord.
22 Therefore tongues are for a sign, not to those who believe but to unbelievers; but prophesying is not for unbelievers but for those who believe. 23 Therefore if the whole church comes together in one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those who are uninformed or unbelievers, will they not say that you are out of your mind? 24 But if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or an uninformed person comes in, he is convinced by all, he is convicted by all. 25 And thus[c] the secrets of his heart are revealed; and so, falling down on his face, he will worship God and report that God is truly among you.
[h=3]Order in Church Meetings[/h]26 How is it then, brethren? Whenever you come together, each of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a tongue, has a revelation, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification. 27 If anyone speaks in a tongue, let there be two or at the most three, each in turn, and let one interpret.28 But if there is no interpreter, let him keep silent in church, and let him speak to himself and to God. 29 Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others judge. 30 But if anything is revealed to another who sits by, let the first keep silent. 31 For you can all prophesy one by one, that all may learn and all may be encouraged. 32 And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. 33 For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.
34 Let your[d] women keep silent in the churches, for they are not permitted to speak; but they are to be submissive, as the law also says. 35 And if they want to learn something, let them ask their own husbands at home; for it is shameful for women to speak in church.
36 Or did the word of God come originally from you? Or was it you only that it reached? 37 If anyone thinks himself to be a prophet or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things which I write to you are the commandments of the Lord. 38 But if anyone is ignorant, let him be ignorant.[e]
39 Therefore, brethren, desire earnestly to prophesy, and do not forbid to speak with tongues. 40 [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Let all things be done decently and in order.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Know[/FONT]
Pursue love, and desire spiritual [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]gifts, but especially that you may prophesy.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]The word especially dosent mean instead of it actually means
In Addition To so its actually saying Pursure Love and desire spiritual Gifts especially(In addition too)
[/FONT] 2 For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries. so when we pray in the spirit we are speaking to God not man the spirit is speaking Mysteries
4 He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself // when we speak in tongues we edify ourself
Praise God
14 For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful. 15 What is the conclusion then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding. I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding.
when you pray in a tongue your spirit prays notice at the Beginning Paul says If i that means He that means He is choosing to speak in the tongues know when you speak in tongues your not Going to understand it So what is the conclusion He will pray in the Spirit(Tongues)and with His understanding the language that He speaks
28 But if there is no interpreter, let him keep silent in church, and let him speak to himself and to God.
so if there is no interpreter then we are to speak silently to God and not stand up and blurt out tongues randomly
39 Therefore, brethren, desire earnestly to prophesy, and do not forbid to speak with tongues.
[h=3]Tongues Must Be Interpreted[/h]6 But now, brethren, if I come to you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you unless I speak to you either by revelation, by knowledge, by prophesying, or by teaching? 7 Even things without life, whether flute or harp, when they make a sound, unless they make a distinction in the sounds, how will it be known what is piped or played? 8 For if the trumpet makes an uncertain sound, who will prepare for battle? 9 So likewise you, unless you utter by the tongue words easy to understand, how will it be known what is spoken? For you will be speaking into the air. 10 There are, it may be, so many kinds of languages in the world, and none of them is without significance. 11 Therefore, if I do not know the meaning of the language, I shall be a foreigner to him who speaks, and he who speakswill be a foreigner to me. 12 Even so you, since you are zealous for spiritual gifts, let it be for the edification of the church that you seek to excel.
13 Therefore let him who speaks in a tongue pray that he may interpret. 14 For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful. 15 What is the conclusion then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding. I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding. 16 Otherwise, if you bless with the spirit, how will he who occupies the place of the uninformed say “Amen” at your giving of thanks, since he does not understand what you say?17 For you indeed give thanks well, but the other is not edified.
18 I thank my God I speak with tongues more than you all; 19 yet in the church I would rather speak five words with my understanding, that I may teach others also, than ten thousand words in a tongue.
[h=3]Tongues a Sign to Unbelievers[/h]20 Brethren, do not be children in understanding; however, in malice be babes, but in understanding be mature.
21 In the law it is written:
“With men of other tongues and other lips
I will speak to this people;
And yet, for all that, they will not hear Me,”[b]
says the Lord.
22 Therefore tongues are for a sign, not to those who believe but to unbelievers; but prophesying is not for unbelievers but for those who believe. 23 Therefore if the whole church comes together in one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those who are uninformed or unbelievers, will they not say that you are out of your mind? 24 But if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or an uninformed person comes in, he is convinced by all, he is convicted by all. 25 And thus[c] the secrets of his heart are revealed; and so, falling down on his face, he will worship God and report that God is truly among you.
[h=3]Order in Church Meetings[/h]26 How is it then, brethren? Whenever you come together, each of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a tongue, has a revelation, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification. 27 If anyone speaks in a tongue, let there be two or at the most three, each in turn, and let one interpret.28 But if there is no interpreter, let him keep silent in church, and let him speak to himself and to God. 29 Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others judge. 30 But if anything is revealed to another who sits by, let the first keep silent. 31 For you can all prophesy one by one, that all may learn and all may be encouraged. 32 And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. 33 For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.
34 Let your[d] women keep silent in the churches, for they are not permitted to speak; but they are to be submissive, as the law also says. 35 And if they want to learn something, let them ask their own husbands at home; for it is shameful for women to speak in church.
36 Or did the word of God come originally from you? Or was it you only that it reached? 37 If anyone thinks himself to be a prophet or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things which I write to you are the commandments of the Lord. 38 But if anyone is ignorant, let him be ignorant.[e]
39 Therefore, brethren, desire earnestly to prophesy, and do not forbid to speak with tongues. 40 [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Let all things be done decently and in order.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Know[/FONT]
Pursue love, and desire spiritual [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]gifts, but especially that you may prophesy.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]The word especially dosent mean instead of it actually means
In Addition To so its actually saying Pursure Love and desire spiritual Gifts especially(In addition too)
[/FONT] 2 For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries. so when we pray in the spirit we are speaking to God not man the spirit is speaking Mysteries
4 He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself // when we speak in tongues we edify ourself
Praise God 14 For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful. 15 What is the conclusion then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding. I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding.
when you pray in a tongue your spirit prays notice at the Beginning Paul says If i that means He that means He is choosing to speak in the tongues know when you speak in tongues your not Going to understand it So what is the conclusion He will pray in the Spirit(Tongues)and with His understanding the language that He speaks
28 But if there is no interpreter, let him keep silent in church, and let him speak to himself and to God.
so if there is no interpreter then we are to speak silently to God and not stand up and blurt out tongues randomly
39 Therefore, brethren, desire earnestly to prophesy, and do not forbid to speak with tongues.
I already cited this, but if you'll note from my profile, I'm not a Christian. I'm not about to assume that it's true just because it's in the bible, any more than you accept a passage from the Qur'an just because it's in a holy book that several people assume to be true. I already explained why it's "gobbledygook". If it wasn't, then it would have an objective discernible translation.
You pretty fluent in Swahili? Or would you need an interpreter?
Hmmm,
Not what Paul said...
1Co 12:29 Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles?
1Co 12:30 Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?
20 Brethren, do not be children in understanding; however, in malice be babes, but in understanding be mature.
21 In the law it is written:
“With men of other tongues and other lips
I will speak to this people;
And yet, for all that, they will not hear Me,”[b]
says the Lord.
22 Therefore tongues are for a sign, not to those who believe but to unbelievers; but prophesying is not for unbelievers but for those who believe. 23 Therefore if the whole church comes together in one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those who are uninformed or unbelievers, will they not say that you are out of your mind? 24 But if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or an uninformed person comes in, he is convinced by all, he is convicted by all. 25 And thus[c] the secrets of his heart are revealed; and so, falling down on his face, he will worship God and report that God is truly among you.
Order in Church Meetings
26 How is it then, brethren? Whenever you come together, each of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a tongue, has a revelation, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification. 27 If anyone speaks in a tongue, let there be two or at the most three, each in turn, and let one interpret.28 But if there is no interpreter, let him keep silent in church, and let him speak to himself and to God. 29 Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others judge. 30 But if anything is revealed to another who sits by, let the first keep silent. 31 For you can all prophesy one by one, that all may learn and all may be encouraged. 32 And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. 33 For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.
34 Let your[d] women keep silent in the churches, for they are not permitted to speak; but they are to be submissive, as the law also says. 35 And if they want to learn something, let them ask their own husbands at home; for it is shameful for women to speak in church.
36 Or did the word of God come originally from you? Or was it you only that it reached? 37 If anyone thinks himself to be a prophet or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things which I write to you are the commandments of the Lord. 38 But if anyone is ignorant, let him be ignorant.[e]
39 Therefore, brethren, desire earnestly to prophesy, and do not forbid to speak with tongues. 40 Let all things be done decently and in order.
Know
Pursue love, and desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy.
The word especially dosent mean instead of it actually means
In Addition To so its actually saying Pursure Love and desire spiritual Gifts especially(In addition too)
2 For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries. so when we pray in the spirit we are speaking to God not man the spirit is speaking Mysteries
4 He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself // when we speak in tongues we edify ourself Praise God
14 For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful. 15 What is the conclusion then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding. I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding.
when you pray in a tongue your spirit prays notice at the Beginning Paul says If i that means He that means He is choosing to speak in the tongues know when you speak in tongues your not Going to understand it So what is the conclusion He will pray in the Spirit(Tongues)and with His understanding the language that He speaks
28 But if there is no interpreter, let him keep silent in church, and let him speak to himself and to God.
so if there is no interpreter then we are to speak silently to God and not stand up and blurt out tongues randomly
39 Therefore, brethren, desire earnestly to prophesy, and do not forbid to speak with tongues.
21 In the law it is written:
“With men of other tongues and other lips
I will speak to this people;
And yet, for all that, they will not hear Me,”[b]
says the Lord.
22 Therefore tongues are for a sign, not to those who believe but to unbelievers; but prophesying is not for unbelievers but for those who believe. 23 Therefore if the whole church comes together in one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those who are uninformed or unbelievers, will they not say that you are out of your mind? 24 But if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or an uninformed person comes in, he is convinced by all, he is convicted by all. 25 And thus[c] the secrets of his heart are revealed; and so, falling down on his face, he will worship God and report that God is truly among you.
Order in Church Meetings
26 How is it then, brethren? Whenever you come together, each of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a tongue, has a revelation, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification. 27 If anyone speaks in a tongue, let there be two or at the most three, each in turn, and let one interpret.28 But if there is no interpreter, let him keep silent in church, and let him speak to himself and to God. 29 Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others judge. 30 But if anything is revealed to another who sits by, let the first keep silent. 31 For you can all prophesy one by one, that all may learn and all may be encouraged. 32 And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. 33 For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.
34 Let your[d] women keep silent in the churches, for they are not permitted to speak; but they are to be submissive, as the law also says. 35 And if they want to learn something, let them ask their own husbands at home; for it is shameful for women to speak in church.
36 Or did the word of God come originally from you? Or was it you only that it reached? 37 If anyone thinks himself to be a prophet or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things which I write to you are the commandments of the Lord. 38 But if anyone is ignorant, let him be ignorant.[e]
39 Therefore, brethren, desire earnestly to prophesy, and do not forbid to speak with tongues. 40 Let all things be done decently and in order.
Know
Pursue love, and desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy.
The word especially dosent mean instead of it actually means
In Addition To so its actually saying Pursure Love and desire spiritual Gifts especially(In addition too)
2 For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries. so when we pray in the spirit we are speaking to God not man the spirit is speaking Mysteries
4 He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself // when we speak in tongues we edify ourself
Praise God 14 For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful. 15 What is the conclusion then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding. I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding.
when you pray in a tongue your spirit prays notice at the Beginning Paul says If i that means He that means He is choosing to speak in the tongues know when you speak in tongues your not Going to understand it So what is the conclusion He will pray in the Spirit(Tongues)and with His understanding the language that He speaks
28 But if there is no interpreter, let him keep silent in church, and let him speak to himself and to God.
so if there is no interpreter then we are to speak silently to God and not stand up and blurt out tongues randomly
39 Therefore, brethren, desire earnestly to prophesy, and do not forbid to speak with tongues.
Peace be with you, please pray in the name of LORD JESUS CHRIST and let the HOLY SPIRIT guide you, the anointing in you as your true Teacher, as you read 1 Corinthians chapter 12 to chapter 14. The answer is all there. Do not let anyone speak to you otherwise apart from what is written.
May GOD the FATHER of our LORD JESUS CHRIST bless you in spirit and truth so that you can truly worship HIM and be considered as a true worshiper, as it is written and required in the New Covenant.
May GOD the FATHER of our LORD JESUS CHRIST bless you in spirit and truth so that you can truly worship HIM and be considered as a true worshiper, as it is written and required in the New Covenant.
It says these signs shall follow 'them that believe' not that each sign will follow each individual who believers. Not every believer has to pick up a snake or drink poison. One survives poison in his drink, another heals, another speaks in tongues, etc. That's consistent with I Corinthians 12, too.
C
Do all believer do miracles? No. Do all believers speak in tongues? No. Does every believer have the same gift of the spirit? No. And even though the verse states that some believers may do these things as "gifts of the spirit", remember, it is Christ and Christ ALONE that gives salvation. It is not Christ AND speaking in tongues. It is not Christ AND doing miracles or healing or whatever. It is Christ alone who is sufficient for salvation. I have heard too many religions put too much emphasis on the fact that if you don't speak in tongues you are not truly a Christian. Nothing if further than the truth. If that were the case, then God would give EVERY believer the gift of speaking in tongues. Christ, and Christ alone.
Before you get into that you should identify what tongues is. Using scripture as your verification. Not tradition or individual experience.
http://brmicke.yolasite.com/tongues.php
http://brmicke.yolasite.com/tongues.php
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Before we concern ourselves with whether "all believers" can do these things, it's important to note whether "any believer" can do these things. Do you know your gift? Have you observed another believer using their gift? Since every believer has been given a gift, these things should not only be common but known to the believers -- after all, if it was important to God for you to have these skills, why would you waste them by not knowing what they are? And I'm not implying that you'd instantly know what your gift is (but why not???) but even in such a case where you have to discover it, why aren't Christians putting more effort into testing their abilities to discover what their gifts are?
Let me put forward a theory: Christians believe in spiritual gifts but keep this belief purposely vague so as not to stumble upon disproof of it. It's easy for a Christian to say that they have discernment, for example, because everyone has that skill in some measure, but they never actually put it to a test to see if they have it to an extraordinary degree. Why isn't there a website that plays "tongues" for someone to interpret (with the answer spoiled on another page)? Why don't churches encourage people to attempt miracles? Isn't it more likely that no one actually has these gifts than the idea that everyone has them but no one (or at least very few) actually put them to use?
Let me put forward a theory: Christians believe in spiritual gifts but keep this belief purposely vague so as not to stumble upon disproof of it. It's easy for a Christian to say that they have discernment, for example, because everyone has that skill in some measure, but they never actually put it to a test to see if they have it to an extraordinary degree. Why isn't there a website that plays "tongues" for someone to interpret (with the answer spoiled on another page)? Why don't churches encourage people to attempt miracles? Isn't it more likely that no one actually has these gifts than the idea that everyone has them but no one (or at least very few) actually put them to use?
We all speak tongues. Tongues in the Bible are simply languages.
But if you are referring to the supernatural gift that the Apostles were given on the Day of Pentecost to speak in other languages without having to learn them, then no, that supernatural gift is not around today. The Gift of Tongues were given as a Sign to the Jews ( 1 Cor. 1:22 & 14:22).
We Gentiles do not require a sign, but rather we seek after wisdom (1 Cor. 1:22).
14 Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy.
2 For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries.
3 But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.
4 He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.
5 I would that ye all spake with tongues but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying.
6 Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine?7 And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped?
8 For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle?
9 So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air.
10 There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification.
11 Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh shall be a barbarian unto me.
12 Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church.
13 Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret.
14 For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful.
15 What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.
16 Else when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest?
17 For thou verily givest thanks well, but the other is not edified.
18 I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all:
19 Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.
20 Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men.
21 In the law it is written, With men of other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the Lord.
22 Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe.
23 If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those that are unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad?
24 But if all prophesy, and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all:
25 And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so falling down on his face he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth.
26 How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.
27 If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret.
28 But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God.
29 Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge.
30 If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace.
31 For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted.
32 And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets.
33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.
34 Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience as also saith the law.
35 And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church.
36 What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only?
37 If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord.
38 But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant.
39 Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues.
40 Let all things be done decently and in order. - 1 Corinthians 14:1-40 (KJV)
Also, here is a good video you can check out on this issue of speaking in other tongues:
Charismatic Movement, History, and Error. - By David Cloud
[video=youtube;XDUyXtAwdOM]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XDUyXtAwdOM[/video]
But if you are referring to the supernatural gift that the Apostles were given on the Day of Pentecost to speak in other languages without having to learn them, then no, that supernatural gift is not around today. The Gift of Tongues were given as a Sign to the Jews ( 1 Cor. 1:22 & 14:22).
We Gentiles do not require a sign, but rather we seek after wisdom (1 Cor. 1:22).
14 Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy.
2 For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries.
3 But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.
4 He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.
5 I would that ye all spake with tongues but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying.
6 Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine?7 And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped?
8 For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle?
9 So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air.
10 There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification.
11 Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh shall be a barbarian unto me.
12 Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church.
13 Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret.
14 For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful.
15 What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.
16 Else when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest?
17 For thou verily givest thanks well, but the other is not edified.
18 I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all:
19 Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.
20 Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men.
21 In the law it is written, With men of other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the Lord.
22 Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe.
23 If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those that are unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad?
24 But if all prophesy, and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all:
25 And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so falling down on his face he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth.
26 How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.
27 If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret.
28 But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God.
29 Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge.
30 If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace.
31 For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted.
32 And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets.
33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.
34 Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience as also saith the law.
35 And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church.
36 What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only?
37 If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord.
38 But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant.
39 Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues.
40 Let all things be done decently and in order. - 1 Corinthians 14:1-40 (KJV)
Also, here is a good video you can check out on this issue of speaking in other tongues:
Charismatic Movement, History, and Error. - By David Cloud
[video=youtube;XDUyXtAwdOM]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XDUyXtAwdOM[/video]
"tongues" is that card that brings the whole thing down.
that's why it is IT - (the fatal flaw in the ludicrous practices of a certain denomination) for "them" (cessationists who know tongues was known human languages, a real miracle).
^ glossolalia ^ = fake gifts.
but, i understand from the testimonies of formers, that glossolalia becomes an addiction and that one can't stop doing it.
not easily.
so, i do have a measure of sympathy.
that's why it is IT - (the fatal flaw in the ludicrous practices of a certain denomination) for "them" (cessationists who know tongues was known human languages, a real miracle).
^ glossolalia ^ = fake gifts.
but, i understand from the testimonies of formers, that glossolalia becomes an addiction and that one can't stop doing it.
not easily.
so, i do have a measure of sympathy.