Who has the correct view on this doctrine? Are any correct in their interpretation of the scriptures concerning the tongues question? God has a reason for everything He does, and so it is with the supernatural gift to speak in a foreign language. As we search the scriptures we will see at least four major reasons why God gave this gift to His people.
And we will also see how to discern whether this gift is from God or from some other source.
This Study Paper will help to shed some light on this most difficult question and put to rest some preconceived ideas that many hold as to Christian behaviour within and without congregational meetings of the saints.
The gift of tongues or languages is a very difficult subject. This one subject has caused no end of controversy and trouble within the Church. Some believe the ability to speak foreign languages is a gift of God, some think it is demon possession, some think it is the manifest-ation of an unstable emotional mind, while others just do not want to think about this subject at all, hoping it will somehow go away.
Let us consider a few questions:
1. Is there a logical biblical explanation for this question, or must we wait for the return of Christ for an answer? Yes, there is a logical biblical and physical explanation. And, No, we do not have to wait for Christ to return before we have an answer.
2. Are the accounts found it Acts chapter 2 and 1st Corinthians chapters 12, 13 and 14 speaking of the same subject? Perhaps they are not, since there is a contrast between these two accounts. These two separate references, when explained in context, will give some very interesting insight into the charismatic movement and the question of speaking in an unknown language.
There is no doubt that this subject is tricky and cannot be understood just with a casual gloss of the scriptures. Factors which complicate this subject are:
(1) Most who study it have a preconceived idea of what they want the outcome to be.
(2) We are dealing with a subject whose history has all but been lost, with the exception of the biblical account.
(3) Compounding the problem even more is that we are dealing with the writings of Paul, which are not easy to understand without an in-depth detailed bible study.
Study Note : As we go through the scriptures in Acts, 1st Corinthians and others, we will use the word "language (s)" in place of the word "tongue (s)" since the word language (s)more accurately translates the Greek word `glossa'. We will leave out the words "gift" and "unknown" where they do not appear in the original text in order to give a more correct rendering of what is being said. The King James Version of the Bible will be quoted unless otherwise noted.
Notice how the Holy Spirit was manifested when our Saviour received it:
"And Jesus when he was baptized, went up straight way out of the water, and lo, the heavens opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: And lo, a voice from heaven, saying This is my beloved son in whom I am well pleased" (Matt 3:16-17; see also Mark 1:9-11; Luke 3:21-23; John 1:28-34).
Here we see our Saviour receiving the Holy Spirit after baptism, with the attending signs. Note the Spirit descended as a dove and a voice from heaven proclaimed that He was the Son of God. As we will see, the only two things in common with some of the other accounts in Acts is that Jesus was baptized in water and He received the Holy Spirit.
"And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as a mighty rushing wind and it filled the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as a fire, and it sat upon each of them" (Acts 2:1-3).
Notice that these disciples were gathered in observance of the Day of Pentecost which is a commanded assembly and also one of God's Annual Festival Days. Notice also they were in harmony - "one accord." The proceedings within most charismatic churches are just the opposite of harmony-as they often exhibit chaos and confusion during the manifestation of speaking in tongues.
Next in the scripture we find the sound of a powerful windstorm and the appearance of fire touching each individual in the room. Nowhere in this age of the Church do we find these same events happening within the body of Christ, and nowhere do we find this exact situation repeated in scripture. This was a one-time event given for a special purpose on a very special occasion.
"And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues (languages) as the Spirit gave them utterance. (The Jerusalem Bible offers an interesting translation of Acts 2:4 - "They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in foreign languages as the Spirit gave them the gift of speech.") And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language" (Acts 2:4-6).
Notice there were no unknown or uncomprehensible languages spoken here. All of these languages were understandable, coherent speech and did not need a translator. Notice also that this miracle may not only have been of speaking a foreign language, but could also have been a miracle of hearing.
Not only were these Galileans speaking in other languages, they were speaking in the particular dialects of those present.
"And how hear we every man in our own tongue (Dialect=Strong's #1258) wherein we were born?" The Jerusalem Bible says "How does it happen that each of us hears them in his own native languages?") Notice there were at least 17 different language groups referred to here in Acts 2. What was so astonishing to those present was the fact that each person heard the gospel spoken in his own particular language.
Again notice there was not only a miracle of speaking but a miracle of hearing as well. Notice further the numbers of people involved and the clarity with which the understanding was transmitted."...we do hear them speak in our tongue (language) the wonderful works of God. And they were amazed and were in doubt, saying one to another, What does this mean?" (Acts 2:11-12).
There is no doubt that those who spoke on this Day of Pentecost-both speakers and hearers-were the beneficiaries of a special miracle from God. There were no babblings, no unknown languages to decipher, no interpreters were needed-all those present understood clearly what was being said.
What we see happening in Acts 2 is:
1. The dwelling place of God's Spirit being transferred from the temple building at Jerusalem to human temples (1 Cor 3:17; 6:19; 2 Cor 6:16, and the consummation of the New Covenant (Jer 31:31-34 and Heb 8:10).
2. This transfer being evidenced by the tongues of fire and the miracle of languages for preaching the good news of the coming Kingdom of God, showing again that these were indeed holy people who had received the Spirit of God.
3. An event that was unique in all of history-the manifestation of the Comforter which Christ had promised to be given to those called to salvation. This same type of manifestation has not been recorded since.
CHRIST'S PROMISE: Mark 16:14-17
"Afterwards he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided
them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them
which had seen him after he had risen. And he said unto them, Go you into all
the world and preach the gospel unto every creature. He that believes and is
baptized shall be saved and he that believes not shall be damned. And these
signs shall follow them that believe; In my name they shall cast out devils;
they shall speak with new languages."
Many feel that verse 17 is saying that all who are Christians will speak in
new languages.
However this is not the case as we will see. Christ was only speaking to the
eleven apostles and not to the disciples. A close study of what was said would seem to indicate that Christ's statement
was a general one when He said " these signs shall follow them." There does not
seem to be anything in the original Greek that would indicate that these signs
would be a part of each and every Christian's spiritual make up. The apostle
Paul confirms this analysis in 1 Corinthians the twelfth chapter where he speaks
of different spiritual powers given separately and individually.
Many also feel that the word "new" in verse 17 means a language that is
unknown to us humans. However, this also is not the case. Here we find that the
word "new" is `kainos'and denotes "...new, of that which is unaccustomed or
unused, not new in time, recent, but new as to form or quality, of different
nature from what is contrasted as old.
The "new tongues" `kainos' of Mark 16:17 are the "other tongues" `heteros' of
Acts 2:4.
These languages were "new and different," not in the sense that they had
never been heard before, or that they were new to the hearers, for it is plain
from verse 8 that this is not the case. They were new languages to the speakers,
different than those in which they were accustomed to speak" (Vines p.791). What
we find in Mark 16:14-18 is Christ stating that among those or attending those
who truly believed in Him there would be tremendous miracles done as a witness
to show that these were his followers. However, to truly believe Christ is more
than just a superficial vocal pronouncement. To truly believe is to obey and
have faith in his promises. True belief in Christ is a dynamic way of life, not
the voicing of ethereal platitudes.
In Acts 2:14-21 Peter explains why the disciples were speaking in various
languages. Quoting from the prophet Joel, Peter said: "And it will come to pass
in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and
your sons and daughters shall prophecy, and your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams: And on my servants and on my handmaidens I
will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophecy" (Acts
2:16-18).
It is very interesting that this Greek word used for "prophecy" is the verb
`propheteuo' and means "to be a prophet, to prophecy; it is used (a) with the
primary meaning of telling forth the Divine counsels, (b) of foretelling the
future" (Vine's, p 904).
The explanation of this word "prophecy" will help us to understand what was
taking place in Acts and what was not taking place among those of the Corinthian
Church as we study Paul's writings in 1 Corinthians 12-14.
We find in Acts 10 and 11 the same experience noted in Acts 2, only this time
we find the miracle of languages being given to a non-Israelite. Cornelius was a
Roman officer over a group of Italians (whether he was genetically Roman or
Italian really does not matter-what does matter is that God was showing Peter
and others by several separate miracles that He was also going to call some
individuals outside of the nation of Israel to be among his Elect) (Acts
10:44-48; 11:15-18)
Note: It is unclear from the Greek whether the word "fell" is used literally
or metaphorically. However, Peter does not say there was a sound of wind or the
appearance of fire as mentioned in Acts 2, so it would seem the speaking of
foreign languages was the only similarity between the two events.
In Acts 19:1-6 we find the apostle Paul in communication with those who had
been baptized by John the Baptist. Paul baptizes them in the name of Christ and
performs the ordinance of laying on of hands. Notice that after the laying on of
hands these also spoke in languages and prophesied (Vine's, p. 904; Strong's #
4395).
Here again we see a miracle of intelligent, discernable languages used to
show that God had given His Spirit to these individuals and separated them for a
holy purpose.
All of the above occurrences in the book of Acts have these things in common:
1. There is no indication that any of these individuals were seeking the
experience of speaking in a language different than their own, as is done within
charismatic groups.
2. The miracle was as much a witness for others as it was for the ones
receiving this power.
3. This spiritual manifestation was bestowed on entire groups of believers,
and not just on a single selected individual within these groups. There is
absolutely no mention of any private or solitary manifestation of this miracle
outside of an entire group of believers, except for the apostle Paul.
4. In each case it came unexpectedly and in the beginning of the person's
Christian experience.
5. It was done to show that these people were indeed a part of the Elect and
had received the Holy Spirit.
6. They all were inspired to prophecy with these divinely given languages
with no interpreter or interpretation needed.
7. These were all extraordinary cases involving special circumstances for
which there had been no prior precedent set.
The only other example of the Holy Spirit being given in the book of Acts is
when Paul received it at the hand of Ananias. In this example it is simply
stated that when Ananias laid his hand on Paul, Paul was healed of blindness and
received the Holy Spirit (Acts 9:1-18).
Within the tongues movement there are many who believe that a person cannot
have or will not receive the Holy Spirit unless he experiences speaking in
unknown languages. Is this a biblical fact, or is it a false concept? Let us see
if this doctrine will stand the test of the scriptures.
Many in the charismatic movement would have us believe that the gift of the
Holy Spirit can only be received if one speaks in unknown languages. But this is
not true as anyone can see if he studies the scriptures. Neither Christ nor Paul
spoke in foreign languages upon receiving the Holy Spirit and no one can deny
that they did receive it.
Some believe that in order to acquire the gift of the Holy Spirit one must
beg, plead and agonize for it, but this belief is in total error. A careful
search of the scriptures will show that the giving of the gift of the Holy
Spirit is by the grace of God and not by the begging, pleading and agonizing of
the recipient.
Christ said: "If you being evil know how to give good gifts unto your
children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them
that ask him?" (Luke 11:13).
The apostle Peter said: " ...Repent and be baptized every one of you in the
name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and you shall receive the gift
of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 2:38)
Also:
"And we are witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Spirit, whom
God has given to them that obey him" (Acts 5:32).
The accounts of Acts 8:9-17, 9:1-18, 10 thru 11, and 19:16 all show that the
ordinance of laying on of hands was honoured by God and the Holy Spirit was
given to the repentant individual. These scriptures also show that nothing else
is necessary after repentance and baptism for the receiving on of hands.
If all Christians must receive the Holy Spirit the same as they did on the
Day of Pentecost, then why do we not see the tongues of fire appear upon those
who supposedly receive this gift while speaking in these unknown languages? The
simple answer is - if it were necessary, then it would be manifested. Since it
is not manifested, it follows that it is not necessary for receiving the Holy
Spirit.
Some believe Christ told the disciples to wait in Jerusalem of the Holy
Spirit because they (the disciples) were not ready to receive this Spirit.
However, this is not the case at all; just the opposite is true. The disciples
were ready. It was God the Father and Jesus Christ who were not yet ready to
give the Holy Spirit.
Most people are unaware that God has a plan that He follows and within this
plan are certain bench marks in history which certain events are to happen. The
Annual Festival Days are such bench marks for prophetic events past, present and
future.
Notice that Christ, the supreme sacrifice, was crucified on the Passover, the
day when a lamb was sacrificed for the sins of Israel. The Days of Unleavened
Bread followed, picturing coming out of, overcoming and freedom from sin. Within
these Days of Unleavened Bread is the Wave Sheaf offering which pictures the
first of the firstfruits being presented to God. Following fifty days later was
the Day of Pentecost which pictures the firstfruits of the harvest being offered
to God, God the Father gave his Holy Spirit to those first chosen to be
partakers of the New Covenant.
The disciples had to wait until the Day of Pentecost arrived, not because
they were not ready, but because the precise time in God's plan for this event
to take place had not yet arrived. Notice that the Day of Pentecost was fully
come when the Holy spirit was given to those firstfruits of the harvest of
humanity.
Although the manifestation of glossolalia among the ancients can be traced as
far back as 1100 B.C. and is spoken of by Plato (429-347 B.C.) the modern
glossolalia movement is said to have started in the early part of the twentieth
century through the efforts of a Methodist minister Charles F. Parkham. At first
it was found almost exclusively among the Pentecostal churches. However, this
has now changed and one can find this "tongues speaking" in almost every
professing Christian denomination, including the Catholic Church.
Prior to and since that momentous Day of Pentecost in 30 A.D., the activities
of Christ and His disciples show them to be devoid of the current displays of
the charismatic emotionalism and undecipherable babblings that attend these
present-day charismatic groups. This fact alone should alert us to the
discrepancies between the scriptures and this charismatic practice.
What then is to be said of this modern charismatic movement which says it is
perpetuating the experience of the 30 A.D. Day of Pentecost? Paul's letter to
the Corinthians has part of the answer, and the history of paganism has the rest
of the answer, as further study shall show.
The Corinthian Church seems to have been a group of Christians with many
problems. Both of Paul's letters to them contain strong correction, with the
first being almost totally devoted to very strong correction and admonition,
sprinkled liberally with seemingly sarcastic remarks about the Church's poor
behaviour.
After Paul's salutation to the Corinthians, he began to categorize their
problems. No other Church of God is corrected on as many points as this Church.
This fact in itself should tell us something about the spiritual character,
fibre and maturity of these people. This is not to say that they were not of the
Elect - they absolutely were saints of God. However, they had a major problem in
understanding how to conduct themselves and were truly babes in the faith.
It is apparent that many of those at Corinth thought themselves to be
spiritual giants. However, Paul puts this wrong concept to rest early in his
letter. "And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as
unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. I have fed you with milk, and not
with meat: for hitherto you were not able to hear it, neither yet are you able"
(1 Cor 3:1-2).
Paul apparently thought he was being gently with his admonitions and probably
was. However, it does make one wonder what he would have said if he had thought
they could have taken mature adult spiritual correction. The chapters of 1
Corinthians show the majority in the Church at Corinth to be sectarian, carnal,
immoral, unloving, poorly versed in the scriptures and undisciplined in worship.
Notice some of things that Paul admonished the Corinthians about: envying,
strife, division of opinions and arguing, jealousies, immorality and
incest, lawsuits, drunkenness, conceit, lack of Christian love,
carnal mindedness, desecration of their body (i.e. the temple of God),
intellectual vanity, misuse of spiritual gifts, disorderly and shameful conduct
in and out of church meetings. This is by no means a complete list of the things
that Paul was trying to show the Corinthian Church that should be corrected.
Paul's overall message to those saints at Corinth was a call to
repentance.
The picture Paul paints of the Corinthian Church is of people who are dying
spiritually and of people who are allowing Satan to rule in their lives. Far
from being a perfect example of spiritual maturity, those at Corinth were a
perfect example of how NOT to live the Christian life.
The point for us Christians of today is WILL we learn from the Corinthian
example of spiritual immaturity? will we fall into the same trap of only using
the milk of the Word of God and remain spiritual babes? (1 Cor 3:1-3)
There is not a lot of historical documentation about the people of Corinth.
However, what is known gives us an insight into the potential problems of being
a Christian in that society.
Corinth was the capital of Achaia in 57 A.D. and was a huge export-import
centre between Asia and Europe, being at the crossroads of a major trade route.
The city was very wealthy and notorious for its LICENTIOUS lifestyle. The city's
reputation was so bad that it became a proverb in some foreign languages and was
immortalized by Latin poets, so much so that the term "to Corinthianize" became
a part of the Greek vocabulary and meant "to live in drunken immoral
debauchery."
On a hill above the city towered the great temple of Aphrodite, the goddess
of love, with one thousand priestesses who were nothing more than temple
prostitutes who spent their evenings selling their bodies in the city of
Corinth. The city also had the religions of its many diverse inhabitants who
came to ply their trades in this prosperous area.
The bulk of the inhabitants were Italian freemen, Greeks, Jews and people
from the cities of Levant. Within this city of wealth, immorality, and
paganistic Satanic religions, God called a cross section of its citizens to
become saints. When one considers their environment and cultural background, it
is no small wonder that these people had difficulty growing to mature
Christians.
Before doing a detailed study into the scriptures in 1 Corinthians that speak
of the use of various languages in congregational services, it would be good to
review what the Apostle Peter had to say about Paul's writings: "And account
that the long suffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother
Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him in all his epistles, speaking
in them of these things: in which are some things hard to be understood, which
they that are unlearned and unstable wrest (twist), as they do also the other
scriptures unto their own destruction" (2 Pet 3:15-16).
Three things should be noted about chapters 12 through 14:
1. Paul was not present to witness the manifestation of speaking in foreign
languages by the Corinthians. Paul is responding to reports he has heard
concerning activities within the Corinthian Church.
2. Paul considered these activities as major problems, worthy of much
discussion in his letter.
3. If there had NOT been a major problem with speaking in foreign languages,
these chapters probably would not exist in this very corrective letter.
CONCERNING SPIRITUAL THINGS
"Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant" (v.
1)
One thing that is interesting about this first verse is that the word "gifts"
is not in the original text, but was added by the King James translators. What
Paul is saying in verse 1 is that he does not want them to be ignorant about
spiritual matters. When the word "gift" is incorrectly inserted into this
scripture, it severely limits what Paul is talking about-which is a broad
spectrum of spiritual behaviour and attitudes. Therefore, this word "gifts" will
be left out where it is not found in the original so that it will not cloud the
intent of the scriptures.
"You know that you were Gentiles (nations or masses), carried away unto these
dumb idols, even as you were led" (v. 2. Note also 1 Cor 6:9). "Wherefore I give
you to understand, that no man speaking by the spirit of God calls Jesus
accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy
spirit" (v. 3)
In this verse Paul says a strange thing that seems to be out of context with
what he is addressing. Or is it ? Since Paul is obviously correcting the
Corinthian Church throughout this letter, this is undoubtedly more of the same
correction. It would seem that Paul would not mention this subject unless it was
a problem within the Church. If we ask ourselves what king of a spirit would
curse our Saviour, then we can begin to understand what Paul is saying.
Basic knowledge of the spirit world tells us there are good and evil spirits,
with both having the ability to influence human behaviour, depending upon each
individual's frame of mind and attitude. James says to "......Resist the devil
and he will flee from you" (James 4:7). If indeed some of those at Corinth were
allowing themselves to be deceived, controlled and inspired by demons to curse
Christ in the frenzy of a charismatic experience, it then becomes very easy to
understand what Paul is saying.
It is very important to keep in mind that the religious background of many of
the Corinthians was PAGANISM, which included the worship of idols, sex
orgies, intellectual philosophies, miracle working, supernatural healing
and, yes even speaking in unintelligible babblings with uncontrolled
emotional outbursts.
Note: The word "gifts" use throughout chapter 12 is the Greek word `charisma'
and means grace (charis) on the part of God as the donor" (Vines, p 487).
"Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same spirit. And there are
differences of administration, but the same Lord. and there are diversities of
operation, but it is the same God which works all in all" (vs 4-6. Note also
chapter 12:7-10 & 12:28-31).
"But the manifestation of the spirit is given to every man to profit withal"
(v.7)
Verse 7 is very important because Paul is setting the stage for the rest of
the chapter. Here Paul is saying that there are different spiritual gifts and
whatever that gift is, it is given for a purpose, and Paul says the purpose is
to PROFIT THE ENTIRE CHURCH.
"For to one is given by the spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of
knowledge by the same spirit; To another faith by the same spirit; to another
the gifts of healing by the same spirit; To another the working of miracles; to
another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of
languages; To another the interpretation of languages" (vs 8-10).
Notice that NOT ALL have the same gift or power from the spirit. How does
this square with the event in the book of Acts? Did not all those mentioned in
Acts, as a group, speak with foreign languages? This is the first indication
that what Paul is speaking of here in chapters 12 through 14 may not be the same
subject matter spoken in Acts.
Now if all Christians do not have the same ability or power from the Holy
spirit, how do these scriptures square with the popular doctrine of the
charismatic movement? And how do they square with the accounts in the book of
Acts? In Acts we see that entire groups of believers spoke in various languages;
they all were given this supernatural power at the same event.
"But all these work that one selfsame spirit, dividing (distributing) to
every man severally as he will. For as the body is one, and has many members,
and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is
Christ" (vs 11-12).
It is God who distributes these various skills, talents and
attributes to individual Christians. Not all have the same attributes.
Paul further explains the purpose of these individual strengths and skills:
"For by one spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or
gentiles, whether we be bad or free; and have been all made to drink into one
spirit" (v. 13). Notice the stress on UNITY in these scriptures.
"For the body is not one member, but many. If the foot shall say, because I
am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? And if
the ear shall say, because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it
therefore not of the body?" (verses 13-16). Some apparently thought that they
were somehow more righteous because they could speak various languages while
others could not:
" If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? if the whole were
hearing, where were the smelling? But now has God set the members every one of
them in the body, as it has pleased him" (vs. 17-18). Again and again Paul
continues to stress the point of unity and the necessity of the body
(church) to work together.
"And if they were all one member, where were the body? But now are they many
members, yet but one body. And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need
of you: or again the head to the feet, I have no need of you" (vs. 19-21).
Notice the rebuke to those who thought their particular attribute, talent or
spiritual gift was superior in value to that of another of the body of Christ.
"Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are
necessary: And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable,
upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more
abundant comeliness" (vs. 22-23). Each member has a VALUABLE function and should
be respected for the part he plays in the overall functioning of the body as a
whole. God the Father has specifically chosen each individual that he wants to
be a part of the body of Christ in this age (John 6:44-65).
Not just one or two, but everyone He has chosen is a part of the Church, and
all are necessary else they would not have been chosen. Each one chosen is just
as important to God
as another. And each has a function to carry out for the benefit of the whole
Church.
It behooves all to take care for one another in order that the whole Church
may prosper. No member of the body of Christ is unimportant unless they make
themselves so.
"For our comely parts have no need: but God has tempered the body together,
having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked (v.24). That there
should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care
one for another (v.25). "Schism, a rent or division, is translated `schism' in 1
Corinthians 12:25. Metaphorically of a contrary condition to that which God had
designed for a local church in tempering the body together" (Vines, p. 1008)
A major part of the problem with the Corinthian Church seems to centre around
their lack of Christian maturity, unity, and order. Notice what Paul says early
on in his correction to them: "Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or
were you baptized in the name of Paul? I thank God that I baptized none of you,
but Crispus and Gaius" (1 Cor 1:13-14)
This comment by Paul is a stinging rebuke to the entire Church. Only Crispus,
the former chief priest of the Jewish synagogue at Corinth (Acts 18:8), and
Gaius were spared from this rebuke. This rebuke says a lot about the problem of
disunity within the Church.
"And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member
be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. Now you are the body of Christ,
and members in particular" (vs 26-27).
Notice again the ranking order of these skills and talents. When we consider
that Paul is giving them strong correction for its misuse, it is more than
significant that Paul listed the ability to speak various languages last in this
list.
"And God has set some in the Church, first apostles, secondarily prophets,
thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healing, helps, government,
diversities of languages. Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers?
are all workers of miracles? have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with
languages? do all interpret? (Greek: diermeneuo = interpret fully, explain)"
(vs. 28-30).
Obviously not! This group of questions by Paul seems designed to drive the
point home that all Christians do not have the same skills, talents and
attributes, but whatever the attribute, skill or talent an individual has, it is
God who has placed him in the body of Christ. As we saw in verse 7, these gifted
persons are for the profit of all the Church, and they are to use these gifts
for the good of each member. But, in Corinth this was not happening, thus
necessitating Paul's harsh correction.
God calls individuals to become a part of His Elect (John 6:44,65) and gives
powers and gifts as HE deems necessary for the perfection of the Elect. "And he
gave some apostles; and some prophets; and some evangelists; and some, pastors
and teachers; For the perfecting of the Saints, for the work of the ministry,
for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we ALL come in the unity of faith,
and of the knowledge of God, unto a perfect man unto the measure of the stature
of the fullness of Christ" (Eph 4:11-13)
Once a person is placed into the body of Christ, whatever spiritual gifts or
attributes one is blessed with are not for one's own PERSONAL aggrandizement,
entertainment or mere PUBLIC DISPLAY. They are for the edification and
enrichment of the Elect, whom God is training to serve all mankind through His
Family and Government.
"But covet earnestly (desire) the best gifts: and yet show I unto you a more
excellent way" (vs. 30-31). (The best gifts will be explained by Paul in the
following chapters.)
Paul now begins to show the Corinthians, the solution to their problems.
Notice he says to desire the best gifts, and then he says that he will show them
something that is far better than having the skills, talents and attributes of
which he has been speaking.
Though I speak with the language of men and of angels, and have not charity
(love), I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal" (v. 1).
Some believe that Paul is saying that he was able to speak in the language of
angels; it would be worthless without love. Perhaps the reason he refers to
these musical instruments is because the beating of cymbals and the blowing of
trumpets accompanied the vain worship of the PAGAN GODS Dionysus and Cybele of
that time period. The implication is that preaching in any language was useless
unless love was present.
"And though I have prophecy (inspired preaching), and understand all
mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could
remove mountains, and have not charity (love), I am nothing. And though I bestow
all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have
not charity, it profits me nothing" (v. 3)
Paul goes on to say that any of these attributes, which are held in high
regard, do not profit unless there is genuine love as the prime motivation
behind the actiones. "Love suffers long, and is kind; love envies not; love
vaunts not itself, is not puffed up, Does not behave itself unseemly, seeks not
her own, is not easily provoked, thinks no evil; Rejoices not in iniquity; but
rejoices in the truth; Bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things,
endures all things" (vs 4-7)
The Living Bible Paraphrased renders the meaning of these powerful words
thus: "Love is very patient and kind, never jealous or envious, never boastful
or proud, never haughty or selfish or rude. Love does not demand its own way. It
is not irritable or touchy. It does not hold grudges, and will hardly even
notice when others do it wrong. It is never glad about injustice, but rejoices
whenever truth wins out. If you love someone you will be loyal to him no matter
what the cost. You will always believe in him, always expect the best of him,
and always stand your ground in defending him. "
What is this love of which Paul is speaking? And what does it have to do with
the subject of
speaking in various languages? The word Paul uses for "love" is the Greek
noun `agape' and describes a particular kind of love that is not self-serving,
but is selfless, placing the welfare of others above the self. It is a
expression of deep concern for others, with attending actions as a physical
expression of this kind of love. Agape is the kind of deep, outgoing love God
has for humanity.
Paul is showing that of all the spiritual attributes, love is the one to be
most sought after.
All other spiritual attributes are nothing unless one has the agape love. But
why? The reason is: if we are to be as God and emulate him, we must seek to have
this kind of love, or, if you will, this kind of character. This is the point
Paul was trying to get across to the Corinthians. He was saying in essence: "
You people are missing the point. You're placing the emphasis on the WRONG
spiritual attributes. You should be seeking Godly love above all else."
"Charity [love] never fails: but whether there be prophecies, they shall
fail; whether there
be languages, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish
away. For we know in part, and we prophecy in part. But when that which is
perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away" (vs. 8-10).
Paul seems to be saying that even with special gifts of the spirit we do a
poor job at best,
but when we are made perfect these gifts will be done away because there will
be no need for them as they pertain to the physical and not the spiritual.
"When I was a child, I spoke as a child I understood as a child, I thought as
a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things " (v.11). What
childish things is Paul referring to here? Are not all the things he has been
correcting them about childish? None of the things he was correcting them about
were the behaviour patterns of the spiritual mature.
" For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know
in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known" (v. 12). Paul explains
to the Corinthians that we as Christians do not understand everything. In fact
we understand very little about the spirit world. But when we see God face to
face, we shall understand even as God understands each of us.
Again we see Paul stressing the attitude of love as he goes into the topic of
inspired preaching: " And now abides faith, hope, charity [love], these three;
but the greatest of
these is charity [love]" (v.13).
Yes, the greatest attribute a person can possibly have is love, --- love that
is completely selfless, love that shows forth Godly character. Paul chose his
words very carefully when speaking about this, the greatest of character traits,
in order to make sure that the Corinthians knew exactly what he was talking
about. Notice Paul even prefaces his next admonition with the phrase "pursue
after love."
"Follow (pursue) after charity (love), and desire spiritual, but rather that
you may prophesy" (v. 1). The word "spiritual" here is the Greek `pneumatikos'
... and always connotes the idea of invisibility and power. It does not occur in
the Septuagint nor in the gospels. It is an after Pentecost word ...
spiritualities" (Vines, p 1087).
The general theme and meaning of the words "prophesy and prophesieth" in
chapter 14 seems to be in the area of inspired preaching, to the intent of
conveying spiritual knowledge to the edification of the brotherhood. Or, as
Vines has it,"... speaking forth the mind and counsel of God" (Vines, p 903).
"For he that speaks in a language speaks not unto men, but unto God: for no
man understands him; how be it in the spirit (mind?) he speaks mysteries" (v.2)
The first part of this verse can be understood thus: If a person
is speaking an actual communicative language that no one around him understands
because they are not schooled or trained in it - not just gibberish or
uncontrolled babblings-he is speaking only to God because only God, who
understands all languages, would understand it. In fact this is almost exactly
how the Greek Interlinear translates the understanding of this verse.
The second part is more difficult. However, the same reasoning applies: God
understands our every thought, as many scriptures tell us. So it follows that
even if the one speaking understands what he is saying, he is still speaking in
mysteries to those about him, if they do not understand the language in which he
is speaking.
"But he that prophesies speaks unto men to edification, and exhortation, and
comfort" (v.3).
Paul is saying that the man who communicates the truth of God gives something
of value, and implies that the type of person he was speaking of in verse two
does not edify anyone.
It is important to note that when Paul refers to inspired speaking within the
formal worship service, he never uses the female gender. And he is always
referring to those who are speaking in the capacity of a minister or teacher.
"He that speaks in a language edifies himself; but he that prophesies edifies
the church"
(v.4). If a person speaks in a language different from what others can
understand, that person is really only speaking to himself and will be the only
one who will profit from such speech. However, the man who is inspired to speak
or teach the truth of God so that others can understand it, profits the Church.
The phrase " edifies himself" would also seem to imply a selfish motivation.
Notice the context so far is concerned with those who are preaching, teaching
and speaking to the Church congregation: " I would that you all spoke with
languages but rather that you prophesied: for greater is he that prophesies than
he that speaks with tongues [languages], except he interpret, that the church
may receive edifying" (v. 5). Paul says that he wished all who were preachers
and teachers could speak foreign guages. However, he wished even more that they
could all be inspired speakers and be able to explain the Word of God, because
the one who can explain God's truth has a far better gift than the one who is
multilingual, unless the multilingual preacher or teacher can also explain and
expound the Word of God in the foreign language with clarity. Notice here again
that this whole process should be done for the edification of the Church-- the
whole Church, not the individual.
Now back to why Paul wished that all the preachers and teachers of Corinth
could be multi lingual. The most plausible reason would be because the Church of
Corinth was a multi lingual congregation. Remember, this Church was in a city
that was a racial melting pot.
Since this was the case, language could naturally be a barrier to learning.
Multilingual teachers and preachers could expound the truth of God to the entire
Church would be of a great benefit.
" Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with languages, what shall I
profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge,
or by prophesying, or by doctrine?" (v. 6). Paul is saying: What is it going to
benefit you if I come and speak something you cannot understand? But, if I speak
and reveal knowledge and understanding to you; that is what profits you. " 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? For if
the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle?"
(vs. 7-8).
Paul continues to drive the point home. He has said the same thing at least
ten different ways, but he still keeps hammering at this point. Paul apparently
wanted to make sure they understood what he was talking about, because their
very salvation depended upon how they reacted to what he was telling them. The
problem they were having with multilingual teachers and preachers combined with
their other problems was tearing the Church apart.
And if, in fact, there was the aspect of a charismatic movement within the
Church, the danger was even more threatening because of the demonic influence
upon those preaching and teaching.
" So likewise you, except you utter by the tongue words easy to be
understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for you shall speak into the
air" (v. 9). " There are, it may be, so many kind of voices [sounds] in the
world, and none of them is without signification [meaning]. Therefore if I know
not the meaning of the voice [sound] I shall be unto him that speaks a
barbarian, and he that speaks shall be a barbarian unto me" (vs. 10-11).
The Greek word for barbarian is `barbaros' and has some very interesting
implications in this verse. "It properly meant one whose speech is rude or
harsh. The word is onomatopoeic, indicating in the sound the uncouth character
represented by the repeated syllable'barbar' Hence it signified one who speaks a
strange or foreign language. It also came to denote any one who was ignorant of
the Greek language and culture" (Vines, p. 101).
The inference is that if one could not express himself so another could
understand what was being said, he was not very well educated in the language,
and in fact could not communicate intelligently.
" Even so you, forasmuch as you are zealous of [exercise] spiritual gifts,
seek that you may excel to the edifying of the church" (v.12). Here he tells
them because they [the teachers and preachers] exercise the Spirit, they should
seek to be extremely proficient or excel in building up the congregation. Paul
does not say it explicitly, but if one reads between the lines the hidden
meaning comes through:
" Seek to edify the Church instead of yourselves." " Wherefore let him that
speaks in a
language pray that he may interpret [Greek: diermeneuo= to interpret fully or
explain]"
(v.13). If a person is going to speak before the congregation, he should be
able to explain in detail what he is talking about. Otherwise it is of no
benefit to those listening. So Paul tells the speakers to pray for the ability
to explain clearly what they are teaching or preaching about.
" For if I pray in a language, my spirit [pneuma] prays, but my understanding
[Greek: nous= the intellect or mind] is unfruitful (v. 14). The Greek word for
spirit here is 'pneuma' and means " a current of air [breath]."
This scripture makes a great deal of sense when the meanings of the Greek
words are used instead of the English translation. Paul is simply stating that
if one does not understand what is spoken, it is just so much air or wind. "What
is it then? I will pray with the spirit[pneuma] and I will pray with the
understanding [intellect or mind] also: I will sing with the spirit [pneuma],
and I will sing with the understanding [intellect or mind] also" (v. 15).
Some feel that the "spirit" in these verses is referring to a spirit
language. A logical question to ask is: Why would God want humans to use a
language they do not understand? Since communication is a two-way transmission
of information, these feelings do not seem very logical." "Else when you shall
bless with the spirit (pneuma), how shall he that occupies the room of the
unlearned say amen at your giving of thanks, seeing he understands not what you
say?" (v. 16).
The unlearned person in verse 16 is defined in the Greek as "a person without
professional knowledge, un-educated, unskilled or unlearned." The point here is
that it does no good to make a public prayer in which the congregation is to
take part if all in attendance there cannot understand what is being said. Logic
says those who cannot understand cannot participate in this public prayer to
God.
"For you Verily give thanks well, but the other is not edified" (v. 17). The
only one edified is the one giving the prayer.
Many in the charismatic movement believe they have a gift from God that
allows them to pray in an unknown tongue both in public and private. Some say
that because sometimes they do not know what they should pray for, God does it
for them by the means of this unknown prayer language. Besides the above
scriptures, most who promote this experience use Romans 8:26-27 as
justification:
"Likewise the spirit also helps our infirmities: for we know not what we
should pray for as we ought: but the spirit itself makes intercession with
groaning that cannot be uttered. And he that searches the hearts knows what is
the mind of the spirit, because he (it) makes intercession for the saints
according to the will of God."
Let us look at these scriptures as translated in The Interlinear Bible:
"Likewise and also the spirit joins in to help the weakness of us, for what we
may pray (for) as we ought, not we know, but itself the spirit pleads our case
for us with groaning unutterable. He but searching the hearts knows what (is
the) mind of the spirit, because according to God he intercedes for saints."
The Greek word for uttered is `alaletos' and means "something that cannot be
spoken." If this something cannot be spoken, where does this unknown prayer
language come from? The Greek word for "groaning" is `stenagmos' which means " a
sigh " (see 2 Cor 5:2-40).
Does God have the ability to understand human languages? You might think this
is a ridiculous question. However, to say that God must have us speak to him in
a language that we do not understand in order for Him to understand us is just
as ridiculous. God understands us completely and that understanding includes our
innermost feelings, desires and thoughts that sometimes are difficult for us to
express in a vocalized language.
"I thank my God, I speak with languages more than you all" (v.18).
Many times it is good to ask a question in order to understand a problem. The
question one could ask of verse 18 is: Why would Paul be thankful he was
multilingual? There are several answers to this question that make sense.
1. Paul was a scholar who not only spoke his native tongue, Aramaic, but
could read and speak many languages, including the dead language of Hebrew in
which the Old Testament was written. This ability gave him great credibility
with the common Jew as well as the priest since only the most educated
understood and could read the Hebrew scriptures.
2. Paul was the apostle to the non-Israelites as well as the Israelites and
Jews. Because his travels took him to many distant lands he needed to know many
languages in order to fulfil his commission to preach the gospel. The apostle
Paul more than likely not only had the natural ability to speak many languages,
but also had the spiritual gift mentioned in the book of Acts.
Notice what Paul says about this ability that the Corinthians coveted: "Yet
in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding (Greek: nous =
intelligence or mind), that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten
thousand words in a (foreign) language" (v.19)
"Brethren, be not children in understanding: how be it in malice be you
children, but in understanding be men" (v20) A more modern translation of this
scripture would be: Brothers, stop thinking childish thoughts; keep the
innocence of a child, but in understanding be adults.
"In the law it is written, with men of other languages and other lips will I
speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the
Lord" (v. 21).
Beck's translation of verse 21 seems to more accurately convey the true
intent of what Paul is saying here than the King James Version: "In a strange
language and by the mouth of foreigners I will speak to these people" (v. 21,
Beck).
Here Paul is referring to Isaiah 28:9-13 where God show how He gives
understanding to His Elect, and how He hides understanding from others. But why
does Paul refer to these scriptures?
"Wherefore languages are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them
that believe not." The Greek Interlinear translates this verse: "So as languages
for a sign are not to those believing, but to those not believing." Paul is
simply explaining that the unbeliever cannot understand the truth of God even
when it is spoken to him in an understandable language.
"But prophesying (inspired preaching) serves not for them that believe not,
but for them which believe" (v. 22) Inspired preaching and teaching is for the
Elect and not for the unconverted.
If verse 22 is speaking of some unknown language as many believe it makes no
sense whatsoever when we compare it with the accounts in the book of Acts where
the gift of languages was as a sign to those who already believed and was used
to demonstrate that those who spoke were the recipients of the Holy Spirit.
Because these two references cannot be reconciled in the King James translation,
the explanation must be found in the original Greek language. Also notice that
in Acts 2 those who believed or were being called to repentance understood, and
those who were not did not understand.
Notice when we insert the Greek meanings to the words of verse 22 the real
intent becomes crystal clear: "Wherefore languages are for a sign (a mark or
indication), not for them that believe, but for them that believe not. But
(inspired preaching or revelation of divine counsel) serves not for them that
believe not, but for them that believe" (v. 22).
Paul is being very blunt and straightforward in explaining the proper use of
foreign languages by the Elect. Some might say: Why did God give this special
power if it was not for the Church? The simple truth that Paul explained to the
Church at Corinth was: If one had the ability to speak in foreign languages and
this power was given by the Holy Spirit, it was to be used to preach the gospel
to those who believe or to be used in an evangelistic manner. It was not to be
used as a display of intellectual vanity, as we shall soon see.
"If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak
with languages, and there come in those that are unlearned, or unbelievers, will
they not say that you are mad?" (v.23).
Paul says for the Church as a whole to speak different languages at the same
time would give the impression that those who spoke were insane. If this type of
behaviour was pleasing to God, why would the apostle Paul take them to task for
it? Simple logic should tell us what they were doing was wrong. Paul approached
this problem from many different directions in order to make sure the
Corinthians got the point.
"But if all prophesy (if all speak Divine counsels), and there come in one
that believes not, or one unlearned, he is convinced (shown his sinful state) of
all, he is judges of all" (v. 24)
The Taylor translation renders "he is judged of all" and his conscience will
be pricked by everything he hears." This translation would seem to be logical,
in that it would serve no purpose for the congregation to pass judgement on an
unbeliever. However, if the unbeliever were to be convicted by the preaching,
that would be another matter.
Paul is telling them the correct way to conduct themselves before the
assembly of the Elect and before unbelievers. That way is to teach things which
will profit those who are unskilled in the truth and give a testimony of that
same truth to the unbeliever.
"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" (v.25).
In modern terminology we might express what Paul is saying this way: The proper
kind of teaching will result in people understanding their inner being and then
be convinced they need to change and worship the true God. Because of this kind
of proper conduct and teaching, they will also know that the Spirit of God
dwells in you.
"How is it then, brethren? when you come together, every one of you has a
psalm, has a doctrine, has a language, has a revelation, has an interpretation.
Let all things be done unto edifying" (v.26)
Perhaps Paul was being a bit sarcastic here as he asked this question, and
perhaps not. But the point remains, according to Paul everyone in the Church
wanted to be a teacher or preacher. The admonition here is for all things to be
done for the edification of the Church, which apparently was not the case.
"If any man speak in a language let it be by two, or at the most by three,
and that by course; and let one interpret. But if there be no interpreter, let
him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God" (vs.
27-28).
It would be good to remember at this time that Corinth was a centre of
international commerce with many cultures and language groups represented. In
addition, Greek was the international business language of the day and was
spoken by almost everyone as a second language.
In verses 27 and 28 we find Paul instructing multilingual speakers. These are
extremely interesting verses because Paul gives a very detailed explanation of
how these types of dissertations are to be carried out. Notice that if any man
is going to speak in different languages, he should not use more than two or
three languages during his dissertation, and then he should not mix these
languages as he speaks, but he should speak them consecutively. Paul further
instructs the speaker to search them consecutively. Paul further instructs the
speaker to search out interpreters for these languages and if none can be found,
the speaker should not speak to the Church but should keep his thoughts between
himself and God.
Several times Paul addresses this question of an interpreter being present
when someone is going to speak in languages other than those commonly spoken by
the group as a whole.
But why?
Simple logic should tell us that if a speaker is to transmit understanding,
the hearer must be able to comprehend what is being said. This is why there must
be an interpreter present.
How could the entire Church benefit if the speaker were to expound some
wonderful truth and no one could understand what he was saying?
The whole tone of these scriptures is that there must be a logical, orderly
progression of events whenever a speaker feels he has to use several different
languages in order to express his thoughts to the Church. It is evident that
Paul is not supporting the practise of spon-taneous outbursts of speaking in
foreign or unknown languages,'- as is the common practise of many charismatic
churches of this age.
Notice the same order in verses 29-31. Paul is stressing order, and not
confusion. This is the opposite of the normal scene at popular tongues-speaking
churches of today. The performances of these churches is anything but order, but
is mostly pandemonium and confusion with an abundance of uncontrolled
emotionalism.
" Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge. If anything
be revealed to another that sits by, let the FIRST hold his peace. For you may
all prophecy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted" (v. 31).
Verse 32 is very important to understand because it lead directly to a major
point Paul wants to impress upon the Corinthians: " And the spirits of the
prophets are subject to the prophets" (v. 32). An analysis of this verse should
leave no doubt that uncontrolled and unknown languages should not be a part of a
prophet's [inspired speaker's ] sermon or presentation to the church.
Regardless of what Greek meaning we use for the word "spirits" (Greek:
`pneuma' = air, breath, wind or mind), it doesn't change what Paul is saying.
Paul says those who teach ( inspired speakers) should be in control of
themselves. The vast majority of charismatics will admit they cannot control
what they say when speaking in tongues. Now I ask, where is the control of this
gift. Clearly they have no control over their actions and are in violation of
the principle Paul is expounding.
To make this point even more clear Paul says: " For God is not the author of
confusion,but of PEACE, as in all churches of the saints" (vs. 29-33). For even
more clarity let us read these verses out of the Living Bible translation: " Two
or three may prophecy, one at a time, if they have the gift, while all the
others listen. But if, while someone is prophesying, someone else receives a
message or idea from the Lord, the one who is speaking should STOP. In this way
all who have the gift or prophecy can speak, one after another, and everyone
will learn and be encouraged and helped.
Remember that a person that has a message from God, has the power to stop
himself or wait his turn. God is not the one who likes things to be disorderly
and upset. He likes harmony, and he finds it in all the other Churches" (vs.
29-33).
" Let your woman 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. 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" (vs. 34-35, KJV).
" Let the women of you in the churches be silent, not for it is allowed to
them to speak but let them be subject, as also the law says. if But anything to
learn they desire, at home their own husbands let them question; a shame for it
is for women in a church to speak" (vs. 34-35, quoted from the Greek Interlinear
Bible).
Since we only have ONE side of the story here, we do not know EXACTLY what
the problem with the woman was. Whether the " speaking " Paul was referring to
was preaching or teaching or just being a vocal disruption is not clear. What is
clear is that these women at Corinth were not being orderly as specified in the
teaching of the law [the Old Testament]. Here again Paul is stressing orderly
conduct in the formal worship service.
MANY cannot abide what Paul said to the women, at Corinth, because of a wrong
concept of God's government (Gal. 3:28). Paul's statement has
NOTHING to do with male chauvinism, as some
think. However, it does have to do with the order of things as
they pertain to Church government and the particular function of individuals
within it.
Note: A side issue to this subject of speaking in unknown languages is the
one of women and the leadership responsibility within the Church. It should be
noted that Jesus Christ, the God of Israel, chose only men to the Levitical
priesthood, and only men to the apostleship. And, the apostles ordained only men
to the leadership. The only instances in which this principle of male leadership
was violated, occurred when the males of Israel shirked their leadership
responsibility. This definitely was not the case at Corinth, as men were in the
positions of leadership.
Notice Paul commands the women to keep silent. This is not a request, it is a
command backed up by god's word. If the foregoing chapters 12 thru 14 are
speaking of the same manifestation of the Spirit as noted in the book of Acts,
we have a major problem with what Paul has just said. This is especially true
when we consider that he said in verse 5 that it would be good if they all could
speak in foreign languages.
Because we know that the scriptures do not contradict each
other and all scripture is for our learning, we can only conclude that Paul was
not addressing the same manifestation of the Spirit as the one manifestation of
the Spirit as the one mentioned in Acts. We can also conclude that the practices
of the modern tongues or charismatic movement is not based on sound biblical
principles.
(Editors comment. The subject of Women Preachers has become another of the
hot issues of modern times and we will give readers new light which has been
shed on the subject recently, shortly.)
"What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only? 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. But if any man be
ignorant, let him be ignorant" (vs 36-38, KJV)
"You disagree? And do you think that the knowledge of God's will begins and
ends with you Corinthians? Well, you are mistaken! You who claim to have the
gift of prophecy or any other special ability from the Holy Spirit should be
first to realize what I am saying is a commandment from the
Lord himself. But if everyone still disagrees.. well, we will leave him in his
ignorance" (vs 36-38, Living Bible).
"Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with
languages. Let all things be done decently and in order" (verses 39-40, KJV).
"So my fellow believers, long to be prophets so that you can preach God's
message plainly; and never say it is wrong to 'speak in tongues' (languages);
however be sure that thing is done properly in a good and orderly way" (vs.
39-40, Living Bible).
We find very little order among those of the charismatic persuasion. In fact
we find just the opposite - we find confusion of the highest order, such as:
a. Both men and women speaking out spontaneously in formal services (a
practice condemned by Paul in 1 Cor 14:27-29, 34, 40)
b. No formal request for an interpreter prior to the event (a practice
condemned by Paul in
1 Cor 14:28).
c. The repeating of meaningless sounds over and over (vain repetition
condemned by Jesus in Matt. 6:70)
d. People falling on their backs, leaping, jumping,
screaming, shouting, lapsing into unconsciousness, unbridled
and uncontrolled emotionalism. All these things are the opposite of
order as commanded by scripture.
Most Bible scholars will agree that the word "unknown" is an added word and
is not in the original text of chapters 12 through 14. Some might say that even
though it is not in the original text, the Greek language infers that the
language discussed was unknown. A very short study into the Greek language
easily disproves such a theory.
It is interesting to note that even though the word "unknown" is recognised
as being out of place in these scriptures by scholars, almost all who analyse
this subject try to incorporate it into their explanations of what these
difficult scriptures mean. It would seem that since the word is clearly a
misrepresentation of the facts, it should be treated as such and should not be
considered when explaining the intent of the verses -excepting to say the word
has no value to this topic.
The noted scholar J. B. Lightfoot believed that the language spoken of in
chapters 12 through 14 was the ancient Hebrew tongue and gives some historical
facts that are difficult to challenge. Whether his deductions from these facts
are correct can be questioned. However, his understanding of History is valid as
substantiated by historical documentation.
Notice the points he brings out in reference to the worship service of the
Jewish synagogues of the day, and how this could have influenced the Corinthian
Church: a. Public prayers in the synagogue were made in the ancient Hebrew
tongue, with the exception of one or two being made in Chaldee. [Remember, only
a very few understood Hebrew.]
b. Those who taught or preached spoke only Hebrew, which was repeated to the
worshippers by an interpreter.
c. It was a disgrace for a woman to speak in the synagogue or to usurp any
part of the
ministerial office.
d. Services were conducted in an orderly and worshipful manner.
Because many of the Christians at Corinth were Jewish converts along with a
few former priests of the synagogue, Lightfoot felt that the Corinthians more
than likely patterned their worship services after the synagogue
services. If Lightfoot is correct in his deduction, then chapters 13
through 14 could easily be understood from this point of view, and the language
mystery solved easily (condensed from Hebrew and Talmudical Exercitations upon 1
Epist. Corinth, by Robert Grandell, pp 256-269, vol 4, 1859).
When one makes an in-depth study into the charismatic movement, it is found
that their activities are a far cry from the behaviour patterns
of the early Christians. The unintelligible mutterings and emotional displays of
those indulging in speaking in unknown languages are not the Acts of an orderly
spirit.
Many adherents of the new charismatic pentecostalism claim speaking in
unintelligible languages is the prophetic evidence of a great spiritual
awakening just prior to the end of the age and the return of Jesus Christ.
However such a claim cannot be supported by scripture. In fact, the scriptures
say just the opposite is true.
"Behold the days come, saith the Lord God, that I will send a famine in the
land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst of water, but of the hearing of the
words of the Lord: and they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north
even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the Lord, and
shall not find it" (Amos 8:11-12).
Just Prior to the end of the age, the apostle Paul warned there would be a
departure from the faith (2 These.2:11; 2 Tim 3:13). This widespread forsaking
of truth will entail the accepting of many false and corrupt doctrines by those
who will leave the faith once delivered to the saints.
It is interesting to note that the charismatic movement is becoming a
unifying factor between many of the world's professing Christian and
non-Christian religions as well as the occult and humanistic movements. However,
it does not fit within the guidelines Jesus gave to His Church. Perhaps this
resurgence of the charismatic movement will be the unifying force which brings
about the "super church" spoken of in the book of Revelation. Only time will
tell.
"And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent called the Devil, and
Satan, which deceives the whole world... " (Rev 12:9; 2:9; 3:9).
It is very easy for this world to accept deception upon deception from Satan,
because the vast majority of this world's population, including most of
professing Christianity, are already deceived and worship Satan's false
religious system: "And no marvel for Satan himself is transformed into an angel
of light" (2 Cor. 11:14).
However, to deceive the Elect is much more difficult-if the Elect follow the
scriptural admonition not to be led astray by every wind of doctrine, and if
they test the spirits, whether they be of God or not (Eph. 4:14).
Jesus warned: "For there shall arise many false Christs, and false prophets,
and shall show great signs and wonders, insomuch that if it were possible, they
would deceive the very elect" (Matt 24:24).
The last half of this verse would be more correctly rendered: "...so as to
mislead if possible, even the Elect. " Yes, it is possible to mislead the saints
of God. In order not to be misled into false teaching, a Christian should study
the scriptures diligently and prayerfully, and be very cautious about accepting
new doctrines, making sure that each new doctrine is backed up by biblical
logic.
Paul also warned the Corinthians in both letters to be careful not to be led
astray by those who preach another Jesus and another gospel: "But I fear, lest
by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtlety, so your minds
should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ" (2 Cor 1 1: 13).
It is highly significant that most of the charismatic groups stress the "Full
Gospel," while disobeying and denying almost all major aspects of that same
gospel.
Paul warned Timothy about those who would depart from the faith because they
were not careful about what they accepted as truth: "Now the spirit speaks
expressly that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed
to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils" (1 Tim 4: 1). "Be sober, be
vigilant; because your adversary the devil as a roaring lion walks about,
seeking whom he may devour" (2 pet. 5:8).
The apostles knew that many would leave the faith and accept satanic
doctrines which would creep into the Church because of the lack of attention and
diligence by the Elect. Therefore they gave many warnings to the Church to be
alert to dangerous doctrines (see 2 Cor. l l: 1314; 1 Tim. 4:1-3,10; 2 Tim.
4:3,10; Jude 1:4; Heb.13:9; Eph. 4:14; 2 John 10).
In order for Satan to counterfeit a biblical teaching, he must design his
false teaching, to very closely resemble that which is genuine, so it is
extremely difficult to distinguish between the two. There is tremendous danger
in accepting doctrines that sound right and good without first examining them
with cold hard logic. All of Satan's teachings sound good and are cloaked in the
aura of spirituality, and can easily deceive those who allow their emotions or
intellectual vanity to influence their spiritual discerm-nent. However, Satan's
doctrines always have two major flaws:
1. They never harmonize with the entire Bible.
2. They always involve the Breaking of one or more of God's laws, principles
or precepts.
Satan, with his doctrines and ministers, is very clever and can easily
deceive those who are not on guard against them, so says the apostle Paul:
" For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves
into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed
into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing for his ministers to be
transformed into the ministers of righteousness..." (2 Cor. 1 1: 13-15; see 2
Tim. 3:6).
Almost all of those who believe in speaking in tongues will say they
know it is of God because they have experienced it.
However, very few can even begin to back up this experience
with scriptural logic.
The Christian who is caught up in the euphoria of the charismatic movement
would do well to reflect on what the apostle James said:
" Nobody must imagine that he is religious while he still goes on deceiving
himself and not keeping control over his tongue; any one who does this has the
wrong idea of religion" (Jam. 1:26, The Jerusalem Bible).
When one asks charismatic people what the experience feels like, one can
expect a variety of responses, such as: " a euphoric feeling,' fan orgasmic
emotion,' tremendous power surging through the body. " However, some people
lapse into unconsciousness and have no ability to control their mind or body and
retain no memory of the event. It is interesting to note that some of these same
feelings and experiences of the charismatics are encountered with people under
the influences of alcohol or strong, mind altering drugs.
Uncontrolled emotion is just that! It is uncontrolled, the opposite of
controlled. We humans are emotional beings. Some exhibit more emotion than
others, while some control their emotions rather than letting their emotions
control them.
Paul said: " Be angry and sin not" ( Eph. 4:26). It is possible to control
one's emotions just as Jesus did when he chased the moneychangers out of the
temple. Uncontrolled emotion leads to all kinds of problems, such as sexual
sins, violent acts against persons and property, etc.
Paul advised Titus: " But speak you things which become sound doctrine:...
Sound speech that cannot be condemned ... " ( Titus 2:1,8).
" For God has not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and
of a sound mind" ( 2 Tim. 1:7).
Because of the growing charismatic movement within the American Lutheran
Church, a medical doctor and a psychologist, a professor of the New Testament,
and a clinical psychologist were asked to research the charismatic movement.
What they found was so interesting that they launched a study that took ten
years to complete.
In 1972 John P. Kildauhl, one of the researches, published their findings
entitled " The Psychology of Speaking in Tongues. "
Their conclusions and findings are extremely interesting and fit very closely
some of the observations Paul noted in his letter to the Corinthians. Some of
their findings and conclusions are as follows:
1.When speaking in tongues starts within a group, the tongues issue becomes a
dividing force which is never resolved peacefully always leading to division and
tension among the speakers and non-speakers of tongues.
2. The experience seemed to be self-edifying and did not benefit the entire
group as a whole.
3. The person able to manifest this phenomenon had the following personality
traits:
(a) Very susceptible to hypnotism.
(b) Deeply dependent and submissive to authority figures.
(c) Willing to be totally subjected to another's will.
(d) Extremely trusting.
4. Those who did not or could not speak in tongues had just the opposite
personality traits.
5. Individuals who spoke in tongues seemed always to imitate the group leader
or the one who had introduced them to the movement.
6. The languages spoken were not true human languages as defined by
linguistics, except when the person doing the speaking had a prior knowledge of
a particular human language and then spoke it.
7. The activity was either induced by the hypnotic suggestions of the group
leader or by the subconscious desire of the individual .
8. The study concluded that this phenomenon was a purely learned behaviour,
with the exception of a few cases, which could be described as demonically
influenced.
This study seemed to indicate that there was nothing very spiritual about
this phenomenon, but seemed humanly generated and a source of enjoyment and
comfort for its participants, but just the opposite for the non-participant. It
is interesting to note that the people doing the study were very objective in
their investigation and reported the facts as they obtained them without bias.
The apostle John says of this great deception: " Beloved, believe not every
spirit, but try [test or prove] the spirits whether they be of God: because many
false prophets are gone out into the world" (1 John 4: 1).
The New English Bible translates this verse: " But do not trust any and every
spirit, my friends; but tests the spirits, to see whether they are from God, for
among those that have gone out into the world, there are many prophets falsely
inspired. "
There are many examples in scripture of people being inspired by God's
spirit, and also by an evil spirit.
Notice the example of King Saul: "... a company of prophets met him [Saul;
and the spirit of God came upon him and he prophesied ... " (1 Sam. 10: 10); "
And it came to pass on the morrow, that the evil spirit
FROM God came upon Saul and he prophesied ... " (1. Sam.
18: 10). (an attempt to kill David from Saul who was very wroth[ uncontrolled
emotion])
Just because a person speaks eloquently and dynamically or even speaks truth
does not necessarily mean that God is inspiring him.
The Elect of god are warned time and time again to always be watchful for
false teaching and to prove what is right and good before accepting it as truth:
"Prove (put to the test) all things; hold fast that which is good" (1 Thess
5:21.)
Some might take offence at the thought of testing the spirits for fear they
might show a lack of respect toward God. However, the scriptures which are
inspired by God tell us to test the spirits whether they be His or not. If we
test the spirits with the right attitude, we do not offend God but we please Him
because we are doing what He has asked us to do for our own good. The life of a
Christian is not a child's game to be taken lightly, but it is to be taken very
seriously - etemal life is at stake.
It would not be wise or prudent to say that God does not or will not give the
supernatural ability to speak His word in a foreign language in this age. And it
is possible for one to speak in foreign languages and not have an evil influence
or be out of control emotionally. However, it is both wise and prudent to test
and prove if the spirit represented is indeed of God or not (note Matt. 24:24; 2
Cor 1 1: 13 -15; Eph 4:14; 1 Thes 3:6; 5:2 1; 1 Tim 4: 1; 1 Pet 4: 1; 1 John 4:
1).
To begin to analyze whether or not charismatic manifestations of speaking in
intelligible or unintelligble languages are being inspired by the Spirit of God,
one should ask the following questions:
1. Are these people obeying the foundational elements of the Christian faith?
2. Do they keep the Commandments of God?
3. Do they observe the world's pagan rituals such as Christmas and Easter?
In the vast majority of cases, the simple test of obedience will reveal
whether a spiritual influence is of God or not. The apostle John was inspired to
say that if a person does not obey God, he is a liar and there is no truth in
him (1 John 2:4).
Some might say, "Oh, but they are so sincere. " Being sincere is a good
quality. However, sincerity is not a test of whether a person is guided by the
Spirit of God or not. Obedience is a test (1 John 2:4)
God does not give His Spirit to those who oppose or disobey Him (Acts 5:32).
He also takes His Spirit away from those who disobey. Since most of the
charismatic groups do not obey God's basic laws and precepts (1 John 2:4;
3:22-24; 5:3), one can be relatively sure that is not Spirit of God that is
guiding them. Therefore, one should be wary of those who say they have a gift
from God, but do not obey Him. Paul reveals in 2 Thessalonians 2:5-11 that God
will allow those who do not obey Him to be greatly deceived by false doctrines.
A second category of people that one might encounter who participate in the
charismatic experience are those who keep God's laws and seem to have all of the
spiritual fruits associated with those in obedience to the laws of God. The
question one must ask here is whether these individuals fit into the same
category as those Paul was addressing in the Church of Corinth? If this is the
case, then there is a need for repentance or disaster will follow this example
of spiritual immaturity.
We are admonished by Paul: " Now we command you, brethren, in the name of
Jesus Christ, that you withdraw yourselves from every brother that walks
disorderly and not after the tradition which he received from us" (2 Thes. 3:6).
There is absolutely no tradition or indication in the Bible or history of the
true Church of God which would give credence to, authorize, or in any way
condone the gibberish and outlandish behaviour of charismatics as something to
be a part of the Elect's behaviour.
Not every one who has a charismatic experience is influenced by a good or
evil spirit. Some people are extremely emotional or become carried away by the
excitement or intensity of the moment.
It is extremely important that a Christian be able to determine the
difference between the influence of good and evil in order not to be deceived
into a false doctrine.
Below are specific situations where foreign languages may be encountered,
with scriptural references noted:
Evangelistic efforts:
A supernatural ability to speak foreign languages for the purpose of
spreading the gospelno interpreter necessary ( Acts 2:1-12; 10:44-48; 11:15-18;
19:1-6).
Worship and teaching services:
a. If the word of God is to be preached in a language foreign to those
present, an interpreter is to be present prior to the speaking- so all present
may benefit from what is said ( 1 Cor. 14:27-28).
b. No more than two or three different foreign language speakers may speak
during the instruction period at one service, and those must be spoken
consecutively (1 Cor. 14:29-33).
Indications of the wrong spirit:
a. Uncontrolled babbling or use of foreign languages during formal worship
serviceswhether male or female (1 Cor. 14:23).
b. No interpreter to interpret what is said ( 1 Cor. 14:28).
c. Disorderly conduct: God is not the author of confusion-yelling, screaming,
vocalizing of repetitious meaningless sounds, unbridled emotion (1 Cor. 14:23).
There are many other questions that a Christian should ask about the
charismatic experience that can help to give a clear picture of the spirit
behind this movement and its dangers. They are listed below:
1. Does God want to control and manipulate human minds, or does He want each
individual to control and develop a strong mind and character and be in control
of his own mental processes?
2. Who do we find possessing, controlling and manipulating the minds of
individuals in the
Bible narrative? Is, it God, or Satan and his demons?
It is repugnant for most Christians to even consider the thought that God
would send his Spirit to control, manipulate and possess their minds, thus
depriving them of their free agency. No, God tells us the very opposite in His
Word, the Holy Bible. He says he will give us His Spirit that we may exercise it
and use it for good. He does not say anywhere in the scriptures that He gives us
His Spirit to control us as robots. The only beings who want to control and take
over the minds of humans are evil spirits.
Throughout the scriptures we find that God wants those he has called to
salvation to develop righteous character and strong sound minds which can be
used to make sound decisions and judgments. God does not want robots in His
kingdom. If He Had, He would have created mindless automatons.
We read in I Timothy 3: 1: " If a man desires to be an overseer in the
Church, he desires a good work. "
Any person who desires a spiritual gift should do some introspection and ask
himself why he wants a gift. If one wants the gift for personal aggrandizement
or purely selfish reasons, he is seeking the gift for the wrong reasons.
The apostle Paul said the reasons for spiritual gifts was to render service
to the Church and for evangelism (1 Cor 12:7; 14:24; Eph. 4:12-14).
A right ambition leads a person to accomplish good for all, and wrong
ambition accomplishes only for selfish reasons.
Anyone who seeks the experience of speaking in an unknown language may truly
find such an experience. However, this experience may also be spiritually fatal
if not from God. The apostle Paul warns Christians about the deceptions of those
who follow Satan:
... whose coming is after the workings of Satan with all power and signs and
lying wonders, and with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that
perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be
saved. And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should
believe a lie. That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had
pleasure in unrighteousness" ( 2 Thes. 2:9-12).
Although "tongues speaking" is predominately a quasi-Christian phenomenon, it
is also found in other religions ( Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam and many other
non-Christian religions). It is very difficult to find any positive aspects of
glossolalia because the negative aspects are legion and do not fit the overall
goals that are set forth for the Elect in the scriptures. Since this is the
case, this phenomenon among the charismatic's and even the Elect should be
highly suspect as being a valid manifestation of the Spirit of God, especially
when one reflects on what has been put forth in this Study Paper.
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion,
walks about, seeking whom he may devour. 1 Peter 5:8
Again we would like to THANK Mr Cocherell of Answers Research and Education
P. O. Box 612440, San Jos6 CA 95161 for the colossal effort that was put into
this work; it has been the most accurate work to date on the subject we have
seen.
Many in the charismatic (tongues) movement point to the Corinthian Church as
an example and apex of the proper use of the ability to speak in various
languages. However, Paul's letter to the Corinthian Church shows just the
opposite. The letter shows a Church that was the hallmark of spiritual
IMMATURITY, a Church that was on the verge of stepping back into the PAGANISM
out of which many of its people had recently come (1 Cor 6:9-11; 12:1-3).
Acts 2
ANOTHER REASON TO SPEAK FOREIGN LANGUAGES.
BE ORDERLY.
BEWARE OF DECEPTION.
CHILDISH; PUT AWAY CHILDISH THINGS.
CONFUSION VERSUS ORDER.
CONSECUTIVELY; SPEAKING CONSECUTIVELY.
CORINTHIANS; 5. 1 CORINTHIANS 12:31.
CORINTHIANS; 6.1 CORINTHIANS 13:1-13.
CORINTHIANS; 7.1 CORINTHIANS 14:1-40
CORNELIUS THE CENTURION
COUNTERFEITS; CLEVER COUNTERFEITS
DEPENDENT; EACH MEMBER IS DEPENDENT ON THE OTHER.
DECEPTIVE EMOTIONALISM AND EXPERIENCES.
DESIRE THEIR BEST GIFT.
EASY; SPEAK THINGS EASY TO UNDERSTAND.
EDIFY; SPEAK TO EDIFY THE CHURCH.
EXPERIENCE; THE CORINTHIAN EXPERIENCE.
FALSE; 9. FALSE CHRISTS, DOCTRINES & SPIRITS.
Gift? IS THERE A GIFT OF A PRAYER LANGUAGE?
Gift; 1. THE GIFT OF TONGUES
Gifts; 12. DESIRE FOR SPIRITUAL GIFTS
Gifts; DIFFERENT SPIRITUAL GIFTS FROM GOD.
Gifts; TYPES OF GIFTS.
Hands; THE LAYING ON OF HANDS
HISTORICAL CORINTH.
History; 4 HISTORY OF TODAY'S CHARISMATIC MOVEMENT
Holy; OUR SAVIOUR AND THE HOLY SPIRIT
IDOL; A BACKGROUND OF IDOL WORSHIP.
INSIGHT; LIMITED INSIGHT.
INSPIRED PREACHING.
INTERPRETER; THE INTERPRETER QUESTION.
Introduction.
LANGUAGE MIRACLE OF ACTS.
LOVE NEVER FAILS.
LOVE---THE GREATEST ATTRIBUTE.
MATURE; BE MATURE CHRISTIANS.
MEMBER; EACH MEMBER HAS A SPECIAL PURPOSE.
MIND CONTROL.
ORDERLY PROGRESSION OF EVENTS.
OUTWARD SIGNS.
PAUL AT EPHESUS.
PAUL; WHY PAUL WAS THANKFUL.
Plan; GOD'S PLAN.
POINTS IN COMMON.
PRAYING IN THE SPIRIT.
Promise; CHRIST'S PROMISE: Mark 16:14-17
PROVE ALL THINGS.
PSYCHOLOGY; 10. PSYCHOLOGY OF SPEAKING IN TONGUES.
QUESTIONS TO ASK.
QUESTIONS; OTHER QUESTIONS TO BE ANSWERED.
REASONS; 2. REASONS FOR THIS MIRACLE.
Saints; A GIFT FOR ALL SAINTS.
SATAN DECEIVES THE WHOLE WORLD.
SEEM; THOSE WHO SEEM TO OBEY GOD.
SERVICE; CORINTHIAN WORSHIP SERVICE.
SPEAK TO EDIFY.
SPEAKING ONLY TO GOD.
Spirit; 3. THE HOLY SPIRIT.
STABILITY; EMOTIONAL STABILITY.
Study Note.
TEST; 11. TEST THE SPIRITS WHETHER THEY BE OF GOD OR OF SATAN.
UNDERSTANDING; SPEAK TO CONVEY UNDERSTANDING.
UNIFIED; THE CHURCH IS A SINGLE UNIFIED ENTITY.
"UNKNOWN"; 8. THE WORD "UNKNOWN".
Which; GOD DECIDES WHO GETS WHICH SPIRITUAL GIFT.
Will; PAUL TELLS US THE WILL OF GOD.
WOMAN TO KEEP SILENCE IN CHURCH.
WRITINGS; ABOUT PAUL'S WRITINGS.