Why do some denominations believe in speaking in tongues while some other denominations do not? What’s the deal with speaking in tongues?
In Genesis Chapter 11, God separated peoples all over the world as an act of judgment for their rebellion to Him as King. When God did this he confused the languages of the people. After Jesus’ death and resurrection there was an event called Pentecost where God allowed members of the church to speak in different tongues signifying that the gospel of Christ reunites humanity. People heard the “wonders of God” in their own languages.
This became known as tongues. People were able to speak in different tongues as the Holy Spirit gave them ability.
Some Christians believed that God stopped doing this a long time ago. Others believe that He still does it. In the New Testament, we are told that when it is done there should be interpreters and it should be in order (1 Cor. 14).
Often when it is done today a bunch of people just do it at once- this is not what the scriptures teach. I believe that the gift of tongues is alive and well today but, rarely practiced in line with God’s will revealed in Scripture.
A denomination’s practice of this gift depends on their views on these issues; although, I will say that many who practice tongues regularly do it in a way that is contrary to scripture.
3 comments:
Right on, I was starting to think I was one of the few who believed all that. This gift has been so abused that even gifted scholars tend to give the "no-longer necessary" explination for it. Which is SO LAME! Why would any of God's word suddenly go out of style? It isn't like the Bible is trendy or something.
An excellent book on this subject (based on Hebrews 6:1-2) is The Spirit Filled Believers Handbook by Derek Prince. I'm sure it will be a blessing to you and give greater insight on gifts of tongues and other topics. Check it out!
Side note: Genesis 11 has made living in another country just that much more difficult.
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