In Christ

The Gift of Tongues (Part 1) – This can be a misunderstood subject within the Church. Yet, it is very important to believers, because much has been written on this subject in the New Testament. God doesn't mention something if it isn't important!

Some of the last words of Jesus to His disciples mentions tongues as a supernatural sign.

"And then he told them, 'Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone. Anyone who believes and is baptized will be saved. But anyone who refuses to believe will be condemned. These miraculous signs will accompany those who believe: They will cast out demons in my name, and they will speak in new languages. They will be able to handle snakes with safety, and if they drink anything poisonous, it won't hurt them. They will be able to place their hands on the sick, and they will be healed.'” (Mark 16:15-18)

Notice Jesus said these signs will accompany "those who believe”. Not enough has been taught on this important subject in the Church! How can we believe something if we're never introduced to it or not taught? Too often, I believe, ministers avoid this subject because it can be misunderstood. God gives wisdom to those who ask and His Word has the answers on this subject.

As a young teenager I witnessed some people I loved scoffing at others who spoke in tongues. I had never heard anyone could speak in other tongues. I didn't understand what it was all about. It was all new to me. Yet, I sensed deep down in my spirit that scoffing was the wrong thing to do. Because I stayed open to learn, it didn't take long after I received some teaching on this subject to be baptized by the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in other tongues!

What a change this gift from the Lord has made in my life! I will never go back to praying only in my own understanding (see 1 Cor. 14:15). There are so many benefits to praying in other tongues. I can't for the sake of space, cover them all in this article, but will mention more of them in later articles.

Praying in other tongues is a gift from the Lord!

Some Christians have said that praying in tongues is of the devil. How can this be? If it is truly of the devil, then we would be seeing all unbelievers praying in other tongues. More often than not they scoff at praying in other tongues as well.

Just simply go to Luke 11:11-13. Jesus is speaking, "You fathers – if your children ask for a fish, do you give them a snake instead? Or if they ask for an egg, do you give them a scorpion? Of course not! So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him.”

Ask your Heavenly Father for this gift, and rest assured, it is He that will give it to you!

Submission by Pastor Rena Mae