heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3. They saw
what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each
of them. 4. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak
in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.The Apostles were given this Gift of tongues when they were Spirit filled.
They were filled with the Holy Spirit while they were worshiping together.
The result was an experience described as “speaking in other tongues.”
According to Acts 2:5–13, those who were present at the Pentecost were given
the ability to speak in human languages that were previously unknown to
them, and to understand what was spoken without interpretation. This first
form of tongues is referred to as “zenolalia” in the academic literature (Watson
Mills 1986:2).
Later, in stories about Christian congregations that were founded after the
death of Jesus, a second type of tongues is described. According to 1 Corinthians
14:1–25, this form of tongues cannot be understood without interpretation.
In the first nine verses messages in tongues are contrasted with prophecies:
- Follow the way of love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the
gift of prophecy. 2. For any one who speaks in a tongue does not speak to
men but to God. Indeed, no one understands him; he utters mysteries with
his spirit. 3. But anyone who prophesies speaks to men for their strength-
ening, encouragement and comfort. 4. He who speaks in a tongue edifies
himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church. 5. I would like every one
of you to speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. He who
prophesies is greater than one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets,
so that the church may be edified. 6. Now brothers, if I come to you and
speak in tongues, what good will I be to you, unless I bring you some rev-
elation or knowledge or prophecy or word of instruction? 7. Even in the
case of lifeless things that make sounds, such as a flute or a harp, how will
anyone know what tune is being played unless there is distinction in the
notes? 8. Again, if the trumpet does not sound a clear call, who will get
ready for battle? 9. So it is with you. Unless you speak intelligible words
with your tongue, how will anyone know what you are saying? You will
be speaking into the air.
While prophecies are spoken in a congregation’s native language, messages
delivered in tongues are not and need interpretation to be understood. This
interpretation, like the Gift of tongues, is also a Gift of the Spirit. It is a form
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