Tongues
In the Bible, "tongues" primarily refers to the phenomenon of speaking in languages, particularly as a spiritual gift associated with the Holy Spirit. This is most notably exemplified in Acts 2 during Pentecost, where the apostles were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in various languages (Acts 2:4). This event signified the inclusive nature of the gospel, as people from different nations heard the apostles proclaiming the wonders of God in their own tongues (Acts 2:6-11). The Greek term used in the New Testament for tongues is "glōssa," which can mean both "tongue" as in the physical organ and "language" in terms of spoken communication.In addition to its presence in Acts, the concept of tongues is discussed in 1 Corinthians 12-14, where the Apostle Paul addresses the spiritual gifts, including the gift of tongues (1 Corinthians 12:10). Paul emphasizes that while the gift serves as a means of communication with God and edification for the believer (1 Corinthians 14:2), it should be exercised in an orderly manner within the church to promote understanding and unity (1 Corinthians 14:27-28). Hence, the biblical meaning of tongues encompasses both a miraculous sign of the Holy Spirit's empowerment and a means of personal and communal expression in worship and prayer.
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Ministry in the Spirit - 5. the Gift of Tongues and Prayer Language
By Michael Flowers45433:221CO 13:81CO 14:11CO 14:31CO 14:121CO 14:221CO 14:26In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of exercising spiritual gifts in the context of the corporate gathering. They emphasize the need for order and understanding in the manifestation of these gifts. The speaker acknowledges that their interpretation and theology are not foolproof, but they draw from their experiences in the charismatic renewal movement and teaching on this topic globally. They also mention the concept of seeing things dimly in the present, but having faith in what will be fully known when Jesus returns.
The Gift of Tongues
By Jim Cymbala59337:541CO 12:4In this sermon, the speaker describes a revival that broke out in Wales, which started with a small meeting of young people praying for a spiritual awakening. The revival began when a girl stood up and declared her love for Jesus and her desire to live for Him. The Holy Spirit fell upon the group, leading them to worship and speak in tongues. This revival had a profound impact, spreading the Pentecostal movement throughout Brazil, Sweden, and other parts of the world. The speaker emphasizes that God often uses humble and unlikely individuals to accomplish His purposes, and encourages believers to value what God values rather than what the world considers important.