VERSES IN THE BIBLE ABOUT SPEAKING IN TONGUES

Verses in the Bible About Speaking in Tongues

Speaking in tongues is one of the most discussed and sometimes debated spiritual gifts mentioned in the Bible. For some, it’s a deeply personal prayer language. For others, it’s a powerful sign of the Holy Spirit’s movement in the early church. Regardless of where you stand, understanding what Scripture says about speaking in tongues is essential.

In this article, we’ll explore key Bible verses about speaking in tongues, what they mean, and how they fit into the broader message of the New Testament. Whether you’re studying this topic for personal growth, teaching, or simple curiosity, this guide will help you navigate the Scriptures with clarity.

What Is Speaking in Tongues?

Before diving into specific verses, it’s important to understand what “speaking in tongues” refers to in the Bible.

Speaking in tongues, also known as glossolalia, appears primarily in the New Testament. It is described as:

Speaking in languages unknown to the speaker
A sign of the Holy Spirit’s presence
A spiritual gift meant for edification
Sometimes a public sign for unbelievers

The phenomenon first appears after the resurrection of Jesus, particularly on the Day of Pentecost.

Key Bible Verses About Speaking in Tongues

Let’s explore the most significant passages that address this spiritual gift.

1. The Promise of Speaking in Tongues

Mark 16:17 (NKJV)

“And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues.”

In this verse, Jesus speaks about signs that would accompany believers. Speaking in new tongues is listed as one of them. This passage is often referenced to support the idea that tongues are a sign accompanying faith.

Key takeaway: Speaking in tongues is presented as a supernatural sign linked to belief in Christ.

2. The Day of Pentecost

Acts 2:1–4 (NIV)

“All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.”

This is the first clear biblical occurrence of speaking in tongues after Jesus’ ascension. During Pentecost:

The disciples were gathered together.
The Holy Spirit came upon them.
They spoke in different languages.
People from various nations heard the message in their native tongues.

Why This Moment Matters

It marked the birth of the Church.
It fulfilled Jesus’ promise of the Holy Spirit.
It demonstrated God’s power publicly.

Unlike later references, Acts 2 describes recognizable human languages understood by others present.

3. Tongues as Evidence of the Holy Spirit

Acts 10:44–46

“For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God.”

When the Holy Spirit fell on Cornelius and his household (Gentiles), they began speaking in tongues. This served as confirmation that salvation and the Holy Spirit were also for non-Jews.

Acts 19:6

“The Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied.”

In both cases, speaking in tongues accompanied the reception of the Holy Spirit.

Common pattern in Acts:

The gospel is preached.
People believe.
The Holy Spirit falls.
Tongues sometimes follow.

4. Spiritual Gifts and Speaking in Tongues

The most detailed teaching on speaking in tongues is found in 1 Corinthians 12–14.

1 Corinthians 12:7–10

Paul lists spiritual gifts given by the Spirit, including:

Wisdom
Knowledge
Faith
Healing
Prophecy
Different kinds of tongues
Interpretation of tongues

Paul makes it clear that:

“All these are the work of one and the same Spirit.” (1 Corinthians 12:11)

Important Clarification

In 1 Corinthians 12:30, Paul asks:

“Do all speak in tongues?”

The implied answer is no. This suggests that speaking in tongues is a spiritual gift—but not everyone receives the same gift.

5. Tongues as Personal Edification

1 Corinthians 14:2

“For anyone who speaks in a tongue does not speak to people but to God. Indeed, no one understands them; they utter mysteries by the Spirit.”

1 Corinthians 14:4

“Anyone who speaks in a tongue edifies themselves, but the one who prophesies edifies the church.”

Here, Paul distinguishes between:

Private prayer in tongues (self-edification)
Public prophecy (church edification)

This has led many believers to view speaking in tongues as a personal prayer language used in private devotion.

6. Order in Worship

Paul emphasizes balance and order in church gatherings.

1 Corinthians 14:27–28

“If anyone speaks in a tongue, two—or at the most three—should speak, one at a time, and someone must interpret. If there is no interpreter, the speaker should keep quiet in the church…”

This shows that:

Public speaking in tongues should be limited.
Interpretation is necessary.
Worship should be orderly, not chaotic.

Paul’s goal was not to forbid tongues but to ensure that the church remained edified.

7. Do Not Forbid Speaking in Tongues

Despite correcting misuse, Paul concludes strongly:

1 Corinthians 14:39

“Therefore, my brothers and sisters, be eager to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues.”

This important verse balances the conversation. While order and understanding matter, the gift itself should not be suppressed.

Common Questions About Speaking in Tongues

1. Is speaking in tongues required for salvation?

The Bible does not state that speaking in tongues is necessary for salvation. Salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8–9).

2. Is speaking in tongues always a known human language?

In Acts 2, it appears to be human languages.
In 1 Corinthians 14, it may refer to heavenly or unknown languages.

3. Is the gift still active today?

Christians differ on this:

Continuationists believe spiritual gifts, including tongues, continue today.
Cessationists believe some gifts ceased after the apostolic age.

Why Understanding These Verses Matters

Studying Bible verses about speaking in tongues helps us:

Better understand the work of the Holy Spirit
Avoid confusion or misuse of spiritual gifts
Promote unity within the church
Grow spiritually and biblically

Rather than focusing solely on the experience, Scripture encourages believers to prioritize love (1 Corinthians 13), which sits right between chapters discussing spiritual gifts.

Final Thoughts: A Balanced Biblical Perspective

Speaking in tongues is clearly present in the New Testament and played a significant role in the early church. From the dramatic outpouring at Pentecost to Paul’s detailed guidance to the Corinthians, the Bible provides both affirmation and instruction regarding this gift.

The key principles we can take away are:

It is a work of the Holy Spirit.
It is not given to every believer.
It should be exercised with order and interpretation in public settings.
It should never overshadow love and unity in the church.

If you’re exploring this topic, the best approach is one of humility, prayer, and careful study of Scripture. Regardless of your position, the ultimate goal is the same: to glorify God and build up the body of Christ.

Would you like a follow-up post on the difference between tongues and prophecy or how different Christian denominations view speaking in tongues?

Share it :