Speaking in Tongues
There are main stream Christian sects that believe that the only sign that a saint has received the Holy Spirit is evidenced by Speaking in Tongues. And these sects interpret Speaking in Tongues as speaking in a language that may or may not be known to mankind, which may or may not be interpreted by another believer. And since this language is unknown to most, if not all, this language will sound like gibberish to all except those who are able to interpret. Remember, receiving Yahweh’s Holy Spirit is vitally important in that it is the seal of salvation (see Romans 8:9-11, Ephesians 1:13, and 4:30) and a believers entrance into the Kingdom of Yahweh (see Matthew 7:21, 13:37-43, 18:1-5, Acts 14:21-22, 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, and Galatians 5:19-21).
There are also other main stream Christian sects that believe that some saints will have the gift of Speaking in Tongues, but don’t believe it is the only sign of a saint receiving the Holy Spirit. And these sects interpret Speaking in Tongues as speaking in a language that may or may not be known to mankind, which may or may not be interpreted by another believer.
What this article will explore is (1) Does a believer need to Speak in Tongues, that is a language that may or may not be known to mankind, as the only sign that they have received Yahweh’s Holy Spirit? (2) Can the Scriptural Speaking in Tongues pertain to both known and unknown languages? (3) Will all saints have the gift of Speaking in Tongues? And (4) What is Yahweh’s purpose for Speaking in Tongues?
Let us begin our review of Scriptures to see if Speaking in Tongues is the only sign that a believer has received the Holy Spirit. First we see that Yahweh’s Word has a lot to say about those looking for a sign!
Matthew 12:38 Then certain of the scribes and of the Pharisees answered, saying, Master, we would see a sign from thee. 39 But he answered and said unto them, An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas: 40 For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale’s belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. (Also see Luke 11:29-32)
Matthew 16:1 The Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting desired him that he would shew them a sign from heaven. 2 He answered and said unto them, When it is evening, ye say, It will be fair weather: for the sky is red. 3 And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowring. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times? 4 A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and departed.
Mark 8:11 And the Pharisees came forth, and began to question with him, seeking of him a sign from heaven, tempting him. 12 And he sighed deeply in his spirit, and saith, Why doth this generation seek after a sign? verily I say unto you, There shall no sign be given unto this generation.
Although this may not directly address Speaking in Tongues as the only sign of receiving the Holy Spirit, it is clear that we need to be careful commanding that Yahweh show us a sign from heaven.
Let us continue to read the Word of Yahweh to see if there are other Scriptures that may contradict the need for a sign that a saint has received the Holy Spirit.
Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Romans 8:24 For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? 25 But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.
2 Corinthians 5:7 (For we walk by faith, not by sight:)
Yes it would be wonderful to see a sign that someone has received the Holy Spirit, the seal of salvation, the entrance into the Kingdom of Yahweh. But Scriptures are clear about signs; “a wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign” and faith; “faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence not seen”. Messiah knows that many love to see extraordinary signs and wonders and will not believe unless they see them.
John 4:48 Then said Yah’shua unto him, Except ye see signs and wonders, ye will not believe.
John 20:25 The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Sovereign. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe. 26 And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came YahwehShua, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you. 27 Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing.
And on top of everything just covered, there is a real danger if the source of the sign (i.e. Speaking in Tongues) is not actually known.
Matthew 24:24 For there shall arise false Messiahs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.
1 John 4:1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of Yahweh: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.
2 Corinthians 11:3 But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Messiah. 4 For if he that cometh preacheth another Yah’shua whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another evangel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him.
Let me ask a very basic question. If someone is Speaking in Tongues, defined as a language that is either known or unknown to mankind, how do you know if what they are saying is from Yahweh or from some other unclean spirit (i.e. Satan and his dominion) if there is no interpretation? Remember Satan is a spiritual being (Ephesians 2:2). The answer is that you cannot. Selah (i.e. think about it).
2 Corinthians 11:13 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Messiah. 14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. 15 Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.
2 Thessalonians 2:7 For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way. 8 And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Sovereign shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming: 9 Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, 10 And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. 11 And for this cause Yahweh shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie:
A word of warning is that you should not trust your experiences, because Satan, a spirit being, can give counterfeit experiences which will deceive. Remember Satan deceives the whole world (Revelation 12:9) and we wrestle not against flesh and blood but against wicked spirits in high places (Ephesians 6:12). Yahweh tells us in Proverbs, we need to trust him, not our feelings and supernatural experiences.
Proverbs 14:12 There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death. (Also see Proverbs 16:25).
It is interesting to note that Scriptures do tell us what signs will be evident in a saint who has received the Holy Spirit! Scriptures state “by their fruits you shall know them”. There is no verse that states “by their tongues you shall know them”.
Matthew 7:16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.
Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. 24 And they that are Messiah’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.
It is becoming clear that we need to be very careful if one requires Speaking in Tongues as the only sign of receiving Yahweh’s Holy Spirit. The subject of Speaking in Tongues is both fascinating and controversial. Let’s continue our study on Speaking in Tongues by reviewing both the Hebrew and Greek word translated as “tongues”. We start in the Old Testament with the first occurrence of the Hebrew word translated “tongue”.
Genesis 10:5 By these were the isles of the Gentiles divided in their lands; every one after his tongue (#3956), after their families, in their nations.
3956 lashown {law-shone’} or lashon {law-shone’} also (in plural) feminine l@shonah {lesh-o-naw’} • from 03960; TWOT – 1131a; n m • AV – tongue 98, language 10, bay 3, wedge 2, babbler 1, flame 1, speaker + 0376 1, talkers 1; 117 • 1) tongue 1a) tongue (of men) 1a1) tongue (literal) 1a2) tongue (organ of speech) 1b) language 1c) tongue (of animals) 1d) tongue (of fire) 1e) wedge, bay of sea (tongue-shaped)
20 These are the sons of Ham, after their families, after their tongues (#3956), in their countries, and in their nations.
31 These are the sons of Shem, after their families, after their tongues (#3956), in their lands, after their nations.
So the first occurrence of the Hebrew word “lashown” in Scriptures pertains to a known mankind language. And as we read the definition of this Hebrew word and look at Old Testament passages that use the Hebrew word “lashown”, it is clear that this word is describing known languages (Genesis 10:5, 20, 31, Ezekiel 4:7, Isaiah 66:18, Daniel 1:4, etc.), known speech (Joshua 10:21, Psalm 5:9, Proverbs 15:4, Isaiah 45:23, etc.), and the actual physical tongue (Judges 7:5, Psalm 22:15, Zephaniah 3:13, etc.).
There is not one instance in the Old Testament of this Hebrew word “lanshown” describing a spiritual language that is unknown to mankind. Selah (i.e. think about it)
What does the New Testament say about Speaking in Tongues? One of the first miracles concerning Speaking in Tongues occurred on the Day of Pentecost.
Acts 1:26 And they (apostles) gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.
Acts 2:1 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they (the twelve apostles) were all with one accord in one place. 2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they (the twelve apostle) were sitting. 3 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. 4 And they (the twelve apostle) were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and began to speak with other tongues (#1100), as the Spirit gave them utterance. 5 And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. 6 Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language (#1258). 7 And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans? 8 And how hear we every man in our own tongue (#1258), wherein we were born? 9 Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, 10 Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, 11 Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues (#1100) the wonderful works of Yahweh.
1100 glw/ssa glossa {gloce-sah’} • of uncertain affinity; TDNT – 1:719,123; n f • AV – tongue 50; 50 • 1) the tongue, a member of the body, an organ of speech 2) a tongue 1a) the language or dialect used by a particular people distinct from that of other nations
1258 dialektos {dee-al’-ek-tos} • from 1256;; n f • AV – tongue 5, language 1; 6 • 1) conversation, speech, discourse, language 2) the tongue or language peculiar to any people
The experience on this day plainly tells us that these “tongues” were not some unintelligible gibberish, but known languages! And these known tongues totaled at least fifteen different languages. So we see that on the Day of Pentecost, the initial outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Jews included speaking in known languages. And the purpose of Speaking in Tongues was to proclaim the wonderful works of Yahweh and to magnify the almighty to those present in their own languages.
Here is a very interesting observation. If you look at the passages in Acts just covered, it appears the “they” in verse 26, 1, 2 and 4 who were filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke with tongues were the Twelve Apostles. Why is this important to point out that those who spoke in known languages were Apostles? Because we know that the Apostles were given supernatural powers prior to the Day of Pentecost. Another clue that Speaking in Tongues may not be the sole evidence of receiving Yahweh’s Spirit for a new believer and is a gift given to some, but not all.
Matthew 10:1 And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease.
Acts 2:43 And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.
Acts 5:12 And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people; (and they were all with one accord in Solomon’s porch.
And supernatural powers were not only given to the twelve Apostles, but given to select disciples (Paul and Barnabas) as we continue to read in the book of Acts.
Acts 15:12 Then all the multitude kept silence, and gave audience to Barnabas and Paul, declaring what miracles and wonders Elohim had wrought among the Gentiles by them.
Acts 19:11 And Elohim wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul:
Romans 15:18 For I will not dare to speak of any of those things which Messiah hath not wrought by me, to make the Gentiles obedient, by word and deed, 19 Through mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of Yahweh; so that from Jerusalem, and round about unto Illyricum, I (Paul) have fully preached the evangel of Messiah.
But what about the initial outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Gentiles? Was Speaking in Tongues present? Let’s review.
Acts 10:45 And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Spirit. 46 For they heard them speak with tongues (#1100), and magnify Yahweh.
So on the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Gentiles, Speaking in Tongues occurred. But let me ask a basic question on whether or not Speaking in Tongues was known or unknow languages to mankind. If Speaking in Tongues was an unknown language, how would anyone know that Yahweh is being magnified? Selah (i.e. think about it). Plus we just read that on the Day of Pentecost “tongues” were known languages allowing foreigners to hear the wonderful works of Yahweh in their own language.
The outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Gentiles mirrors the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Jews. This is verified in the next verse. Additional evidence that Speaking in Tongues was at least initially in known languages of mankind.
Acts 10:47 Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Spirit as well as we?
The Apostle Peter bears a second and third witness that the Gentiles received the Holy Spirit just as the Jews did on the Day of Pentecost in the following two passages. Therefore the only logical conclusion is that the Gentile spoke known languages when the Holy Spirit was poured out to allow those Gentiles present to hear the Word of Yahweh in their own languages.
Acts 15:7 And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago Yahweh made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the evangel, and believe. 8 And Yahweh, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Spirit, even as he did unto us;
Acts 11:15 And as I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on them, as on us at the beginning. 16 Then remembered I the word of the Sovereign, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit.
So we see that the initial outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Gentiles, like the Jews, Speaking in Tongues was known languages. And present like the Day of Pentecost were Apostle who were given supernatural powers.
Let us review other instances of the early assembly receiving the Holy Spirit in the Book of Acts to see if we can gain clues if Speaking in Tongues is the only sign that a believer has received the Holy Spirit and whether or not Speaking in Tongues refers to known or unknown languages.
Acts 2:41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. 42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. 43 And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. 44 And all that believed were together, and had all things common; 45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. 46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, 47 Praising Yahweh, and having favour with all the people. And the Master added to the congregation daily such as should be saved.
Acts 4:1 And as they spake unto the people, the priests, and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees, came upon them, 2 Being grieved that they taught the people, and preached through YahwehShua the resurrection from the dead. 3 And they laid hands on them, and put them in hold unto the next day: for it was now eventide. 4 Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; and the number of the men was about five thousand.
If Speaking in Tongues were the true sign of conversion, why is there no mention of any of the three thousand or five thousand converts Speaking in Tongues? Surely if this was the only sign of someone receiving the Holy Spirit it would be mentioned.
Let us continue reading the book of Acts and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the early assembly for additional clues.
Acts 4:31 And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spake the word of Yahweh with boldness.
Well, they were again filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the Word of Yahweh with boldness, but apparently without the need for translation. Therefore it appears the language they spoke was a known language just like the Day of Pentecost.
What about when Peter and John prayed and laid hands on those that believed and were baptized to receive the Holy Spirit. Again, there is no indication that those who received the Holy Spirit Spoke in Tongues including a tongue or language which was unknown.
Acts 8:12 But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of Yahweh, and the name of YahwehShua Messiah, they were baptized, both men and women. 13 Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done. 14 Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of Yahweh, they sent unto them Peter and John: 15 Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Spirit: 16 (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Sovereign YahwehShua). 17 Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.
Let’s continue to review the Book of Acts and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. What was Paul’s experience with the early assembly receiving the Holy Spirit?
Acts 19:6 And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Spirit came on them; and they spake with tongues (#1100), and prophesied. 7 And all the men were about twelve.
In this particular situation saints Spoke in Tongues after they received the Holy Spirit. We have already seen that Speaking in Tongues occurs at times with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. But was this a known or unknown language? To answer this question, you would have to ask yourself that if Speaking in Tongues was clearly shown to be a known languages in the two other occurrences with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Jews and Gentiles and there is no clear verse in Acts that shows that Speaking in Tongues was an unknown mankind language, why would anyone decide it was an unknown language?
Think about this, throughout history there have been many occasions where people have spoken in “ecstatic tongues”, that is a language that was unknown and sounded like gibberish. Note most of these accounts predate Pentecost and were non-Christian in origin. Therefore, how could a saint say with confidence that speaking in an unknown spiritual language was from Yahweh? Especially after all that we have covered.
Deuteronomy 12:29 When Yahweh thy Elohim shall cut off the nations from before thee, whither thou goest to possess them, and thou succeedest them, and dwellest in their land; 30 Take heed to thyself that thou be not snared by following them, after that they be destroyed from before thee; and that thou enquire not after their mighty ones, saying, How did these nations serve their mighty ones?
Jeremiah 10:2 Thus saith Yahweh, Learn not the way of the heathen, and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven; for the heathen are dismayed at them.
And meditate on this. Only three times in the Book of Acts, Speaking in Tongues was clearly shown as part of the infilling of the Holy Spirit. Plus we already covered that many times in the Book of Acts there is no indications that Speaking in Tongues occurred when a new saint was filled with the Holy Spirit. And if you add on top of this the rest of the New Testament (and Old Testament) which shows no other direct links of believers receiving the Holy Spirit evidenced by Speaking in Tongues. And more importantly no Scripture that states receiving the Holy Spirit will always be accompanied by Speaking in Tongues, it becomes clear that Speaking in Tongues cannot be the sole sign of a believer receiving the Holy Spirit.
Let us continue our study on the question on whether or not all saints will have the gift of Speaking in Tongues by reviewing Paul’s letter to the Corinthians in Chapter 12. In this letter, Paul indicates Speaking in Tongues as one of Yahweh’s gifts. And the gifts of the spirit are distributed as needed and include both Speaking in Tongues and Interpretation of Tongues.
1 Corinthians 12:7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. 8 For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; 9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; 10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues (#1100); to another the interpretation of tongues (#1100):
Is the gift of Speaking in Tongues for everyone?
1 Corinthians 12:28 And Yahweh hath set some in the assembly, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues (#1100). 29 Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? 30 Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues (#1100)? do all interpret? 31 But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.
The answer is the gift of Speaking in Tongues is not for everyone. To say that everyone should have the gift of Speaking in Tongues would also have to apply to all the other gifts as well. All saints would be apostles, prophets, teachers, miracle workers, healers, etc. But Scriptures are clear, not every one has every gift and the gifts are segregated according to need. So why would anyone think all saints must Speak in Tongues when Paul is saying otherwise? And based on this additional clue, why would anyone believe that Speaking in Tongues was the sole evidence of receiving Yahweh’s Holy Spirit.
Let us take another angle on why Speaking in Tongues cannot be the only sign of receiving the Holy Spirit. This is a directly from the Apostle Peter. What did Peter instruct believers to do after they were pricked in their hearts (i.e. believed) to receive the Holy Spirit?
Acts 2:37 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? 38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of YahwehShua Messiah for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Peter instructions are clear after they believed. Repent and be baptized with the promise that if you do these two things you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. There is no requirement of Speaking in Tongues! Should we believe Peter?
Matthew 16:18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my assembly; and the gates of hell (hades….better translated the grave) shall not prevail against it. 19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.
What about the Last Days prophesied in the book of Joel when the Holy Spirit will be poured out on all flesh? Is Speaking Tongues required?
Joel 2:28 And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: 29 And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my spirit.
Acts 2:17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith Yahweh, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: 18 And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy:
Notice that Joel’s vision of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit includes prophecy, dreams, and visions, but no Speaking in Tongues. Over and over in the Scriptures, Speaking in Tongues is not always tied to the in-filling of the Holy Spirit.
So far the Scriptures show that Speaking in Tongues did occur three times with the Apostle present in the Book of Acts with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. And that the outpouring of the Holy Spirit accompanied with Speaking in Tongues was in known languages so those present could hear the wonderful works of Yahweh in their own language. And it seems clear that not all who receive Yahweh’s Holy Spirit spoke in Tongues. Lastly, Speaking in Tongues is a supernatural gift of Yahweh to allow a saint to speak a known language to allow others present to hear in their own language the Word of Yahweh and to magnify the almighty.
So with this backdrop, let us tackle a very difficult passage in 1 Corinthians 14 with the help from shalomofyahweh.com article “Tongues within the New Covenant Assembly”.
[Begin quote] “Contrary to what some people claim, the gift of speaking in different languages is NOT to be used as a sign or evidence that believers have received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. There is an entirely different purpose for the gift of speaking in tongues.
I Cor. 14 (21) In the law it is written, With men of other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear ME, saith YAHWEH [Isa 28:11-12]. (22) Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe.
The people that are being referred to are Israel and Judah. The prophecy quoted originally came from Isaiah 28:6-14. It was prophesied by Isaiah before Israel was carried away captive by the Assyrians in 721 B.C. Judah was carried away captive, over a hundred years later, by the Babylonians. During their six or seven hundred years of captivity they were scattered all over the world. As a result, their offspring spoke in the tongues of the land where they lived instead of in their native Hebrew tongues. These tongues were spoken by the Apostles in the fulfillment of this prophecy when they spoke the wonderful works of YAHWEH with the supernaturally-given gift of speaking in different tongues. They spoke to the remnant of Israel and Judah that was present on the Day of Pentecost. This people did not then, and still do not, hear, listen or believe that YAHshua is the Mashiach.
As a result of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, the utilizing the gift of speaking in tongues by the Apostles, and the sermon by Peter, nearly 3,000 souls became members of the New Covenant Assembly on that Day of Pentecost. Contrary to what some people are taught, there were not 120 men, women and children speaking in tongues at the same time, nor were they disgracefully staggering and stumbling around in an upper room as if they were drunk on that Day of Pentecost. If they had been, there would not have been almost 3,000 souls added to the Assembly that day! Paul’s letter concerning tongues that was written to the Assembly at Corinth seems to be grossly misunderstood by many people. It is very important for one to understand what Shaul was teaching in his letter concerning tongues. If one will look at all the scriptures in their context, one will find just what the problem was that he was addressing. In the assembly, some converts were inspired by their own emotions and egos instead of speaking by revelation, by knowledge, by prophecy, or by doctrine. They were just babbling while trying to copy the true spiritual gift of speaking in a language that no one in the Assembly at Corinth understood.
When reading the first verse below, keep in mind that holy men and prophets were also called angels (messengers) by Semitic people.
I Cor. 13 (1) Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.
In 13:11 and 14:20, Shaul implies they were acting like children by babbling or attempting to speak in tongues.
I Cor. 13 (11) When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. … 14 (20) Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men.
In 14:2, Shaul does not state nor imply that one who has the true gift of speaking in tongues does not understand that which he is speaking. He is saying that the mystery is to others present in the Assembly meetings. As used here, speaking in the Spirit means speaking with the YAHWEH-given Spiritual gift of the ability to speak one or more languages without having to learn them.
I Cor.. 14 (2) For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue [language that no one in the assembly understands] speaketh not unto men, but unto YAHWEH: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the [the gift of the] spirit he speaketh mysteries [to the Assembly].
Verse four states that if a person speaks with the true gift of speaking in tongues, he edifies himself. It does not say nor imply, that in edifying himself he does not know what he is speaking, praying, or singing.
I Cor. 14 (4) He that speaketh in an unknown tongue [that no one in the assembly understands] edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the Assembly.
Verse 5 says that one who speaks with the gift of speaking in tongues and interprets it to the Assembly would be as great as one who prophesies.
I Cor. 14 (5) I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues [that no one in the assembly understands], except he interpret, that the Assembly may receive edifying.
Verses six through thirteen implied that they were only babbling; they were inspired by their own emotion. They were not speaking by revelation, by knowledge, by prophecy, or by doctrine. By doing this, they were merely speaking into the air. To stop such “practice,” Shaul told them to ask for the gift of interpretation of tongues. This was a clever way to stop those who did not have the YAHWEH-given gift from attempting to speak in tongues.
I Cor. 14 (6) Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues [that no one in the assembly understands], what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine? (7) And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped? (8) For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle? (9) So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? For ye shall speak into the air. (10) There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification. (11) Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh shall be a barbarian unto me. (12) Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the Assembly. (13) Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue [that no one in the assembly understands] pray that he may interpret.
Shaul said in verses 14-17, “For if I pray in a language, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful.” (By being unfruitful, he meant unfruitful to the Assembly. See 175 #2 in THAYER’S LEXICON.) Shaul prayed and sang in the gift of the spirit with understanding and then with words that the Assembly understood. If he had not, no one would have known what they were agreeing with when they said, “Amen.”
I Cor. 14 (14) For if I pray in an unknown tongue [that no one in the assembly understands], my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful [to the assembly]. (15) What is it then? I will pray with the spirit [YAHWEH-given spiritual gift of speaking a language that the speaker does not have to learn], and I will pray with the understanding [to the assembly] also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding [to the assembly] also. (16) Else when thou shalt bless with the [YAHWEH-given spiritual gift of speaking a language that the speaker does not have to learn] Spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest? (17) For thou verily givest thanks well, but the other is not edified.
In verse 18, properly translated, Shaul said, “I thank my Elohim SPEAKING in [YAHWEH-given spiritual gift of speaking in a language that one has not learned] languages more than you all.” The Greek word is the same as in verse 6, correctly translated “speaking,” and not “I speak.” (See verse 6 & 18 in Baker’s Interlinear Greek-English New Testament).
I Cor. 14 (6) Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues [that no one in the assembly understands], what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine? …(18) I thank my Elohim, I speak [correctly translated- “speaking,” not “I speak”] with [YAHWEH-given spiritual gift of speaking a language that the speaker does not have to learn] tongues more than ye all:
What he was saying was that he thanked his Elohim speaking in tongues more that you all, and not that he thanked his Elohim that he spoke in tongues more than they all did. Why in the world would he boast and say that?
I Cor. 14 (19) Yet in the Assembly I had rather speak five words with my understanding [to the assembly], that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue [that the Assembly didn’t understand]. (20) Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men. (21) In the law it is written, With men of other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear ME, saith YAHWEH [Isa 28:11-12]. (22) Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe.
According to verses 26-28, if anyone had the gift of speaking in tongues, only two or three were to speak, one at a time, and one was to interpret. If there was no interpreter, they were to keep silent. This was to silence those that were trying to copy the gift of speaking in tongues and those speaking by their own motivations, emotions, or ego.
I Cor. 14 (26) How is it then, brethren? When ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying. (27) If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret. (28) But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the Assembly; and let him speak to himself, and to YAHWEH.
In the above, Paul said to let him speak to himself and to YAHWEH. Why would he speak to himself if he did not know what he was saying?
In conclusion, anyone who has the true gift of speaking with the YAHWEH-given spiritual gift of languages knows exactly what he is speaking. The gift of speaking in tongues is a sign, a supernatural happening; it is used in speaking especially to unbelievers in a language foreign to the speaker. This was the case on the day of Pentecost. Also, regarding the gift of interpretations of tongues, the speaker speaks his normal language and the interpreter speaks the language of the people. Both speaking and interpreting tongues were done in a very orderly manner.
WARNING! If that which is declared to be the gift of speaking in tongues (languages) is used for any other purpose than this, one must be very careful. It could be possible that one is being led by one’s own emotion or by Satan. (The evil one does have limited power to lead people with their thoughts, speech, feelings and emotions.)” [End quote]
Some will use Mark 16:17 to say that believers will Speak in Tongues not known to mankind.
Mark 16:17 And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues (#1100); 18 They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.
However, if we consider verses 15 which precede it, we may better understand what was meant.
15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the evangel to every creature.
This statement made by Yah’shua to His Apostle on the gift of “new tongues” is in context to the Great Commission, which is to preach the evangel to the whole world. Therefore just like in the Day of Pentecost and more than likely when Messiah sent his disciples out in twos, saints would be able to speak in foreign languages (i.e. new languages) through the Holy Spirit to convert disciples.
Let us consider this, if everyone was required to speak in “new tongues” would saints also be required to handle venomous snakes, prove their faith by drinking deadly poison, or be able to heal the sick by laying on of hands? I surely hope not!
But what about the following Scripture that shows there are tongues of angels? Wouldn’t the language of angels be an unknown language to mankind? Let us review Scriptures to see if this is true.
1 Corinthians 13:1 Though I (i.e. Paul) speak with the tongues (#1100) of men and of angels,
To solve this question on whether or not tongues of angels are a known or unknown language let us consider what language Paul spoke and what language our resurrected Savior spoke.
Acts 21:40 And when he had given him licence, Paul stood on the stairs, and beckoned with the hand unto the people. And when there was made a great silence, he spake unto them in the Hebrew tongue, saying,…
Acts 22:2 (And when they heard that he (i.e. Paul) spake in the Hebrew tongue to them, they kept the more silence: and he saith,)
Acts 26:14 And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.
So we see that Paul spoke Hebrew. And Paul must have been fluent in Hebrew, since he was educated as a Pharisee in Jerusalem under rabbi Gamaliel (Acts 22:3). And we see that our resurrected Savior spoke to Paul in Hebrew. Plus we known that our Savior, when a man on this earth, taught in the Synagogues where the Hebrew language was used and when Messiah was twelve, sat in the temple discussing the finer points of the Torah with the religious leaders of the day (Luke 2:39-52). So we conclude that Paul and our resurrected Savior spoke Hebrew.
Did you know that the English word for “angel” comes from the Greek word “angelos” and the Hebrew word “malek”. And “angelos” and “malek” means messenger. Throughout Scriptures messengers do not necessarily have to be an angel. We see that John the Baptist was an “angelos” or messenger of Yahweh.
Matthew 11:10 For this is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger (angelos) before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. (Also see Mark 1:2 and Luke 7:27).
And if you review Exodus 14 we see that the angel (Hebrew “malek”) or messenger of Elohim in verse 19 is revealed as Yahweh in verse 24! Therefore we can conclude that a messenger in the Scriptures could be Yahweh. And for those that understand that the Dabar (i.e. Word) Yahweh in the Old Testament who spoke to the patriarchs was Messiah, we see that there must have been a language used between Yahweh Messiah and the patriarchs of the Old Testament. Below are a few examples.
Genesis 17:1 And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, Yahweh appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty Elohim; walk before me, and be thou perfect.
Exodus 6:10 And Yahweh spake unto Moses, saying,
1 Samuel 15:10 Then came the Dabar-Yahweh unto Samuel, saying,
1 Kings 6:11 And the Dabar-Yahweh came to Solomon, saying,
It is interesting to note that there is no indication that the heavenly language is different than the language of messengers, including Yahweh Messiah. And that Saul (i.e. Paul) and the Patriarchs never needed an interpreter when these messengers spoke to them. All this points to one common language that was spoken by men and heavenly messengers. So we may surmise that the language Messiah spoke, Hebrew, is also the heavenly language…the language of angels or messengers.
From the very beginning Yahweh had one language for his people. And maybe that one language was the heavenly language, Hebrew. Remember that Hebrew was the sacred language of the Jewish people and the words of the Torah written in Hebrew are sacrosanct (Deuteronomy 17:18-19)
Genesis 11:1 And the whole earth was of one language, and of one speech.
6 And Yahweh said, Behold, the people is one, and they have all one language; and this they begin to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do.
But because of sin, Yahweh created other languages to confound Nimrod and his people. So today we have many different languages on Earth.
Genesis 11:7 Go to, let us go down, and there confound their language, that they may not understand one another’s speech. 8 So Yahweh scattered them abroad from thence upon the face of all the earth: and they left off to build the city. 9 Therefore is the name of it called Babel; because Yahweh did there confound the language of all the earth: and from thence did Yahweh scatter them abroad upon the face of all the earth.
But there is an interesting prophecy in Paul’s letter to the Corinthians about languages. In that verse, Paul indicates that tongues or other languages will cease or can be translated as pause.
1 Corinthians 13:4 Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; 5 does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; 6 does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 8 Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues (#1100), they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. (NKJ)
How do we know that other languages will cease? Because Yahweh tells us in His Word that there will be only one “pure language”, only one language to call on Yahweh in the future (i.e. 1,000 year reign). And it seems clear that language is Hebrew.
Zephaniah 3:9 For then will I turn to the people a pure language, that they may all call upon the name of YAHWEH, to serve him with one consent.
Zechariah 14:9 And Yahweh shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one Yahweh, and his name one.
We conclude that Speaking in Tongues is a gift to some believers from Yahweh used to edify the assembly and as a way to convert non-believers by spreading the wonderful works of Yahweh in their own language. Speaking in Tongues is not an unknown spiritual language that sounds like gibberish, but known languages. Since not all will have the gift of Speaking in Tongues, this gift cannot be the only sign a saint has received the Holy Spirit.
And if a saint Speaks in Tongues to either edify the assembly or to spread the evangel to non-believers, there must be an interpreter or people that understand that language. Otherwise a saint is instructed to be silent. The danger being that a language that is not understood may be from an unclean spirit (i.e. Satan and his dominion) not Yahweh!
Lastly, the heavenly language, the language of angels (i.e. messengers), points to the Hebrew tongue. And we surmise through Scriptures that this heavenly language, Hebrew, is Yahweh’s pure language that again will be used as the exclusive language on Earth during Messiah’s 1,000 year reign.
HalleluYah
(5-16b)