Thursday, October 30, 2008

1 Corinthians 14 / Oct 31 - Words mean something

Well, I'm back...and what a day I picked! Of all the issues that the church struggles with this is one that causes an incredible amount of ire and at the same time makes only a tiny bit of difference.

Speaking in other languages (tongues) seems to be a personal issue unless it is done in the church but should ONLY be done if there is an interpreter. And is used as a tool for the unbeliever. I suppose it goes without saying that if there is no one in church that does not have a relationship with Jesus Christ then there would be no need or call for speaking in another language.

I use the term language because that is how most Bibles interpret this word and Paul makes it clear that there are "all sorts of languages in the world yet none of them is without meaning." Clearly Paul intended that his hearers would understand that this "tongue" was a language, had a meaning and could be interpreted by someone who was gifted to "interpret" or could speak the language already.

I have heard stories of ministers in other countries who "spoke in tongues" only to have someone come to them and say that they spoke perfect (fill in the blank) language and wanted to accept Jesus Christ as their Savior.

I do not say that "tongues" doesn't exist or that it is nothing. However, it is clear to me that the idea that a person "has to" speak in tongues to prove the indwelling of the Holy Spirit is completely unBiblical. Paul clearly indicates in his writings that all different people have all different gifts. There is no gift that everybody has unless the ability to believe to in Jesus - faith - could be considered a gift.

So, in words that can be understood, be strengthened in your faith as you continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. And I'll see you Sunday!

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