“There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification.” I Corinthians 14:10

“But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” Matthew 12:36-37

“Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness.” John 3:11

“Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.” Ephesians 4:29

“Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.”

Introduction

The Bible teaches to “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (II Timothy 2:15) Also, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” (II Timothy 3:16-17) In order to rightly divide the scriptures and know the truth of God’s Word, it is critical that we abide strictly by the scriptures. Truly, we are in the last days -- the end of the world. False religion has publicized many practices which appear to be from God, but they are not according to the scriptures, rightly divided. In Paul’s day, he encountered those who did not believe in the resurrection of the dead. In addressing this matter, he emphasizes the truth “that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures” and “that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures.” (I Corinthians 15:3-4) Notice the emphasis on that which is “according to the scriptures.” A popular practice of today is to speak in what can be referred to as “false tongues.” The Bible certainly teaches the use of tongues (languages). The use of tongues (languages), however, must be taught according to the scriptures.

A scriptural analysis of the true teaching of Bible tongues will be addressed in this article. First, the biblical definition of “tongues” must be addressed. This analysis is critical. The devil has confused many minds by getting them to use the term “tongues” for what is actually “false tongues.” In addition, certain scriptural principles must be examined to truly understand what the Bible teaches about tongues. For instance, God places great emphasis on understanding. In addition to the emphasis on understanding, God holds us accountable for what we say -- even “idle words.” The scriptures listed above support the scriptural emphasis on the speaker understanding what he or she says and the speaker being held accountable for what he or she says. There is a consistent pattern throughout the Bible of the speaker always understanding what he/she says.

The “false tongues” people emphasize that the speaker does NOT understand what he or she is saying while talking or praying, and the speaker is NOT in control of his or her actions. Yet, there are NO scriptural EXAMPLES of such actions being inspired by the Spirit of God. (NOTE: This author invites the reader to share ANY scriptural examples of any person in the Bible not understanding what he or she has been inspired by God to say. An example is defined in Webster’s Encyclopedic Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, 1989, as “an instance serving for illustration; a pattern or model; an instance illustrating a rule or method.) There are NO scriptural EXAMPLES of speaking without understanding because the Spirit of God only inspires a person to speak with understanding since that person will be held accountable for what he or she has said.

Second, this article will address the events on the Day of Pentecost and the evidence that the apostles were filled with the Holy Ghost, or sanctified. Finally, it is essential to study I Corinthians 14th chapter. This chapter must be examined in the context of one of several warnings to the Corinthian saints to have ORDER in the congregation. Paul’s first epistle to the Corinthians devotes much attention to things that were “out of order” in the congregation. The 14th chapter, therefore, looks at one of several matters that needed to be set in order. This epistle, and in particular this chapter, focuses on congregational matters, not personal matters.

Definitions

This section examines some of the main scriptures that are often used in studying tongues/languages. These scriptures are used throughout this article. In addition to the scriptures, the Greek version and meaning of key words have been included. The Greek version and meaning of key words are provided to help the reader understand the true definition of tongues and the true teaching of speaking in tongues. The devil has succeeded in getting people to embrace a definition of “tongues” that is not according to the scriptures. Every teaching has a spirit behind it. False spirits promote false teachings of the Bible. Therefore, when a false definition (or understanding) of tongues is accepted by a person, a false spirit of tongues will be manifested in that person’s life. (I John 4:1-4; II Peter 2:1-3; Luke 9:55; Proverbs 23:7)

The Greek words and their definitions are helpful in determining the correct definition of tongues. The Bible definition of tongues is the same in the second chapter of Acts as it is in the fourteenth chapter of I Corinthians. This is supported by the Greek word used for “tongues” in both of these chapters. The Greek word for “tongues” used in Acts 2:4 and 11 is “glossa.” The Greek word for every reference to “tongues” used in I Corinthians 14th chapter is the same -- “glossa.” Glossa means “a language.” Since the definitions are the same, then the manner in which “tongues” function in both chapters should be the same. This is a very important point since some attempt to teach that there are two types of tongues-- one type is found in Acts 2nd chapter and another type is found in I Corinthians 14th chapter. Yet, the Greek word (“glossa”) for “tongues” in both chapters is exactly the same. TONGUES IS A LANGUAGE THAT IS UNDERSTOOD BY THE SPEAKER - whether it’s in Acts 2nd chapter or I Corinthians 14th chapter.

As you review the definitions, please note the following:

1. Tongue means language. Language means tongue.

2. Utterance means to enunciate or pronounce plainly; to state or declare definitely; to announce or proclaim. This certainly implies understanding by the speaker--the person who is making the utterance. Throughout the Bible, God uses his people, and his prophets in particular, to announce, proclaim, or to state or declare definitely. In every case, the speaker understands what he or she is saying. Likewise, the apostles understood what they proclaimed on the Day of Pentecost--”the Spirit gave them utterance.” Although utterance has a clear definition, the devil has deceived many to think it means saying something that the speaker does not understand. (See “Apostles Understood”)

3. The word “unknown” (written in italics) means that it was added by the translators. There is no actual word in the Greek text. This means that the original Greek text did not attempt to convey the idea of an “unknown” language. The translators openly admit that they added the word, and therefore the idea, “unknown.”

4. I Corinthians 14:10 clearly teaches that every language in the world has meaning or makes sense.

5. “Prophesieth” means to “speak under the inspiration” of God.

Acts 2:4
And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

Tongues - glossa (gloce-sah) - a language (specially, one naturally unacquired)

Utterance - apophtheggomai (ap-of-theng-om-ahee) - to enunciate plainly, i.e. declare; to say, speak forth (Enunciate means to “pronounce--words, sentences, etc.--especially in an articulate or a particular manner; to state or declare definitely; to announce or proclaim.” Webster’s Encyclopedic Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language)

Acts 2:6
Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language.

Language - dialektos (dee-al’-ek-tos) - a (mode of) discourse, i.e. dialect’; language, tongue. (Discourse means “communication of thought by words; talk; conversation.” Webster’s Encyclopedic Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language)

Acts 2:8
And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?

Tongue - dialektos (dee-al’-ek-tos) - a (mode of) discourse, i.e. “dialect”; language, tongue.

Please note that the Greek word for “language” in the 6th verse and the Greek word for “tongue” in the 81/i verse is the same -- dialektos. Tongue means language, and language means tongue.

Acts 2:11
Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God.

Tongues - glossa (gloce-sah’) - a language (specially, one naturally unacquired)

Rom 8:26
Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.

Groanings - stenagmos (sten-ag-mos’) - a sigh

Which cannot be uttered - alaletos (al-al’-ay-tos) -unspeakable

1 Corinthians 14:2
For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries.

Unknown - “This word was added by the translators for better readability in the English. There is no actual word in the Greek text. The word may be displayed in italics, or in parentheses or other brackets, to indicate that it is not in the original text.” (Strong’s Greek/Hebrew Dictionary)

Tongue - glossa (gloce-sah’) - a language (specially, one naturally unacquired)

1 Corinthians 14:3
But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort. Prophesieth - propheteuo (prof-ate-yoo’-o) - speak under inspiration

1 Corinthians 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, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying.

Interpret - diermeneuo (dee-er-main-yoo’-o) - to explain thoroughly, by implication, to translate; expound, interpret (-ation).

1 Corinthians 14:10 There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification.

Voices - phone (fo-nay’) - language: noise, sound Without signification - aphonos (af-o-nos) - unmeaning, dumb, without signification.

(NOTE: Signification - meaning; sense; import. Import - to convey as meaning or information, as by words, statements, actions, etc. Webster’s Encyclopedic Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language)

1 Corinthians 14:19
Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.

By my voice - “This word was added by the translators for better readability in the English. There is no actual word in the Greek text. The word may be displayed in italics, or in parentheses or other brackets, to indicate that it is not in the original text.” (Strong’s Greek/Hebrew Dictionary)

Unknown - “This word was added by the translators for better readability in the English. There is no actual word in the Greek text. The word may be displayed in italics, or in parentheses or other brackets, to indicate that it is not in the original text.” (Strong’s Greek/Hebrew Dictionary)

Tongue - glossa (gloce-sah’) - a language (specially, one naturally unacquired)

1 Corinthians 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 the Lord.

Other tongues - heteroglossos (het-er-og’-loce-sos) -othertongued, i.e. a foreigner:

(NOTE: The Greek word, glossa, is used for each reference to “tongue” or “tongues” in I Corinthians 14th chapter.)

False Tongues. “False tongues” refers to the popular practice of speech that is not understood by the speaker. It is widely believed that the Spirit of God moves upon his people to say words that they do not understand themselves. In addition, this is regarded as evidence of being filled with the Spirit of God, or the Holy Ghost. There are two major problems, however, with this belief.

First, when the apostles spoke in tongues in the 2nd chapter of Acts, they understood what they were saying. The devout men were amazed “that every man heard them speak in his own language.” (verse 6) In response to their amazement, Peter states (verses 14-16), that the apostles were not drunken, “but this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel.” Obviously, therefore, Peter clearly understood what was taking place. He had to understand what was being said in order to understand what was taking place. There is absolutely no indication that the apostles did NOT understand what they were saying. Certainly the devout men out of every nation under heaven understood what the apostles were saying (Acts 2:6, 8). It would have been a matter of confusion if the apostles had not understood what they were saying, but the devout men out of every nation under heaven understood what the apostles were saying. God is NOT the author of confusion!
(I Corinthians 14:33) The Bible example of speaking in tongues does not support the false claim that the Spirit of God moves upon his people, or anyone for that matter, to say words that they do not understand themselves.

Second, the false teaching that speaking in tongues is the evidence of being filled with the Holy Ghost is easily exposed by a simple reading of Acts 1:8. Jesus said, “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you:.. .“ In Luke 24:49 Jesus states, “And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.”

The danger of the false tongues movement is that it serves as a counterfeit for being filled with the Spirit of God. The evidence of being filled with the Spirit of God is the POWER in a Christian’s life to be a true witness for God at home, in surrounding communities, and abroad. It takes divine POWER over carnality to carry the true message of repentance, living free from willful sin, sanctification, and the unity of God’s people, to the lost and dying world. When a person is filled with the Spirit of God (or sanctified), he or she has POWER OVER ALL FLESH.

Jesus had power over all flesh (John 17:2). When a person fully yields himself to Jesus Christ by conquering his will, as, Jesus demonstrated in the garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36-39), the carnal nature is purged and the individual is able to manifest “power over all flesh.” Many have been called to do so, but only a few have been chosen. (Matthew 20:16; 22:14) The emotionalism normally attached to the false tongues movement does not produce the power needed to purge carnality from the inner man. As a result, sinners and hypocrites have been found to speak in “false tongues.” In addition to not understanding what they were saying while under such an influence, they did not realize that they were being controlled by a spirit that was not the Spirit of God. The issue of false tongues applies to praying as well as words spoken while talking to others.

Further proof that speaking in tongues is not the evidence of being filled with the Holy Ghost is provided by “three scriptural witnesses” which involve the pouring out of the Holy Ghost (the Spirit of God) without any references to speaking in tongues.

Scripture #1:

Matthew 3:15-17
15 And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfill all righteousness. Then he suffered him. 16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:
17 And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. (KJV)

Acts 9: 17-19
17 And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost.
18 And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.
19 And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. (KJV)

Scripture #3:

Acts 8: 14-20
14 Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:
15 Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost:
16 (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)
17 Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.
18 And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money,
19 Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost.
20 But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. (KJV)

Language that is understood. Let us now continue with the definition of tongues. The Bible says, “This is the third time I am coming to you. In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established.” (II Corinthians 13:1) It has been demonstrated that tongues means languages. These terms can be used interchangeably -- tongues means languages, languages means tongues. Also, it has been stated that the apostles understood what they were saying when they spoke in tongues on the Day of Pentecost. There is absolutely no indication that the apostles did NOT understand what they were saying when they spoke in tongues on the Day of Pentecost, or when they spoke at any time. Tongues, therefore, is a language that is understood by the speaker. If this is correct, then we should be able to find other scriptures in the Bible where the word “tongue(s)” refers to a “language” that is understood by the speaker. If this is correct, then we should be able to find other scriptures where the word “tongue(s)” is used and the speaker understands what he or she is saying. If speaking in tongues (languages) involves saying words that are not understood by the speaker, then we should be able to find examples of such in the scriptures. We should be able to find “two or three witnesses” of one or the other.

Isaiah 50:4
4 The Lord GOD hath given me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him that is weary: he wakeneth morning by morning, he wakeneth mine ear to hear as the learned. (KJV)

(NOTE: The Hebrew word for “tongue” in Isaiah 50:4 is “lashown.” It means “speech, language.”)
Does this scripture imply that the speaker understood the language that he or she was saying? YES.

Daniel 1:4
4 Children in whom was no blemish, but well favoured, and skilful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as had ability in them to stand in the king’s palace, and whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans. (KJV)

(NOTE: The Hebrew word for “tongue” in Daniel 1:4 is “lashown.” It means “speech, language.”)

Does this scripture imply that the speaker understood the language that he or she was saying? YES.

Acts 21:40; 22:1-3
40 And when he had given him license, 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,

CHAPTER 22

1 Men, brethren, and fathers, hear ye my defense which I make now unto you.
2 (And when they heard that he spake in the Hebrew tongue to them, they kept the more silence: and he saith,)
3 I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye all are this day. (MV)

(NOTE: The Greek word for “tongue” in Acts 21:40 and 22:2 is “dialektos.” It means a (mode of) discourse, i.e. “dialect”; language, tongue. Discourse means “communication of thought by words; talk; conversation.” Webster’s Encyclopedic Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language)

Does this scripture imply that the speaker understood the language that he or she was saying? YES.

Acts 26:14
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. (KJV)

(NOTE: The Greek word for “tongue” in Acts 26:14 is “dialektos.” It means a (mode of) discourse, i.e. “dialect”; language, tongue. Discourse means “communication of thought by words; talk; conversation.” Webster’s Encyclopedic Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language)

Does this scripture imply that the speaker understood the language that he or she was saying? YES.

The above scriptures “bear witness” that the Bible use of “tongues” refers to a language that is understood by the speaker. God emphasizes UNDERSTANDING and KNOWLEDGE throughout the Bible. The word “understand” appears at least 290 times in the Bible. The word “knowledge” appears at least 170 times in the Bible. Jesus told Nicodemus, “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness.” (John 3:11) Once again, this author invites the reader to share ANY scriptural examples of any person in the Bible not understanding what he or she has been inspired by God to say. There are NO scriptural EXAMPLES of speaking without understanding because the Spirit of God only inspires a person to speak with understanding since that person will be held accountable for what he or she has said.

Where are the scriptural examples of saying words that the speaker does not understand? Actually, God despises ignorance when it comes to practices related to worshipping him. Paul was stirred with the men of Athens who were “ignorantly” worshipping “THE UNKNOWN GOD.”

Acts 17:22-23
22 Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars’ hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious. 23 For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you. (KJV)

This event involves an audience representing “every nation under heaven.” (Acts 2:5) As a result, it was necessary that some means of understanding occur. Jesus had already indicated to the apostles that they were to be “witnesses.. .both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” (Acts 1:8) They were commissioned to spread the gospel throughout the world. Of course, everyone in the world did not speak the same language.

As a result, some means of understanding and communication across language barriers was needed in order to carry out this great commission from Jesus Christ.

The next point to note is the use of “language” and “tongues” interchangeably. These terms are synonymous, or they mean basically the same. Verse 6 (Acts 2nd chapter) states “that every man heard them speak in their own language.” Verse 8 states “And how hear we every man in our own tongue,.. .“ Please note that the Greek word for “language” in the 6th verse and the Greek word for “tongue” in the 8th verse is the same -- dialektos. Tongue means language, and language means tongue. These terms are established as synonyms by the scriptures, or according to the scriptures.

The devout men out of every nation under heaven actually heard the apostles speak in their own (the devout men’s own) languages. They were amazed and marveled at such a miraculous event. It is no wonder, all gifts from God are with amazement and cause the onlookers to marvel! These passages of scriptures represent a Bible example of the gift of speaking in tongues or speaking in languages. It is perfectly clear that these men UNDERSTOOD what the apostles stated. They UNDERSTOOD what was stated, however, in their own language. Only the mighty power of God could perform such a miraculous act. “. . .we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God.” (Verse 11)

A spiritual gift can be defined as “divine power given by God unto faithful vessels for the purpose of performing mighty works to win souls to Christ and/or edify the body of Christ.” In the case of Acts 2nd chapter, divine power was given by God to the apostles to enable them to overcome the language barrier and deliver the message of true Bible salvation. The message of true Bible salvation was certainly delivered with about three thousand souls getting saved from their sins. In Acts 10:45-46, the gift of tongues occurs again. Notice that this occurrence is similar to the event in Acts 2nd chapter. There was a language barrier (Jews and Gentiles in the same house) and the divine power of God was given to overcome the language barrier and deliver the message of true Bible salvation. The Jews (“they of the circumcision”) heard the Gentiles speak with “tongues” (languages), “and magnify God.” Certainly, there was understanding on this occasion as well. The message of true Bible salvation involves repentance (justification) and being filled with the Holy Ghost (sanctification). In this case, therefore, the gift of tongues was used mainly to “edify” the body of Christ, rather than deliver souls from sin. The final example of speaking in tongues, Acts 19:1-9, does not give any reason to believe that the speakers did not understand what they were saying. Also, it does not give any reason to believe that the Apostle Paul (in this case the hearer) did not understand what was being said.

Apostles Understood. What the apostles stated on the Day of Pentecost was given to them by the Spirit of God. “And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” (verse 4) An important word to note in this verse is “utterance.” The Greek word for utterance is “apophtheggornai (ap-of-theng’-om¬ahee).” It means to enunciate plainly, i.e. declare, say, speak forth. (Strong’s Greek/Hebrew Dictionary) Enunciate means to “pronounce (words, sentences, etc.) especially in an articulate or a particular manner; to state or declare definitely; to announce or proclaim.” (Webster’s Encyclopedic Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language) Just as the devout men heard the “wonderful works of God,” the apostles “PLAINLY” declared, said, spoke, announced, or proclaimed the “wonderful works of God.” Certainly, these passages of scripture (Verses 4-11) clearly represent an understanding on the part of the speakers as well as the hearers.

As a means of having a second witness to the meaning of Spirit-led utterances, it should be noted that the apostle Paul asked the church at Ephesus to pray for him “that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel.” (Ephesians 6:19) Notice that the “utterance” would involve Paul opening his mouth “boldly, TO MAKE KNOWN the mystery of the gospel.” Once again, “utterance” means “PLAINLY” declaring, saying, speaking, announcing, or proclaiming the Word of God.

As a means of having a third witness to the meaning of Spirit-led utterances, it should be noted that Paul asked the church at Colosse to pray for them “that God would open us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds: That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.” (Colossians 4:3-4) Notice here that Paul wants to MAKE IT MANIFEST, AS I OUGHT TO SPEAK. For the third time, therefore, “utterance” means “PLAINLY” declaring, saying, speaking, announcing, or proclaiming the Word of God. The “mystery of Christ” was NOT a “mystery” to Paul. If Paul is going to MAKE IT MANIFEST, AS I OUGHT TO SPEAK then he had to understand what he was saying!!!

A fourth example involves the church at Corinth. Notice here that Christ “enriches” the saints in ALL utterance, and in ALL knowledge (speaking and knowing). Utterance and knowledge are mentioned together and they “enrich” the saints of God. Enriching the saints in ALL speaking and knowing is clear evidence that understanding occurs. Jesus Christ, the bearer of ALL knowledge and understanding, enriches his people with the same. When Jesus speaks to us, he understands what he says to us and we understand what he says to us. The same pattern occurred on the Day of Pentecost. The apostles understood what they said to the people and the people understood what the apostles said to them. The same pattern is evident in Paul’s references to “utterances” in Ephesians and Colossians. Yet, the false tongues people define “utterances” as some unintelligible babbling that the speaker does not understand. The scriptures speak for themselves! They do NOT ~teach or suggest that “utterances” are NOT understood by the speaker. Such unintelligible babblings are given by a spirit other than the Spirit of God.

Utterance and knowledge (speaking and knowing) appear together again in II Corinthians 8:7.

1 Corinthians 1:3-6
3 Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
4 I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ;
5 That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge;
6 Even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you: (MV)

2 Corinthians 8:7
7 Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also. (MV)

The word “utterance”, therefore, is always used in the Bible as a case in which the speaker plainly “makes known” or “makes manifest” something that he or she understands. The same is the case regarding the apostles on the Day of Pentecost.

Praying. There are some who claim that prayer can be made to God using “groanings” that are not understood by the person praying. In other words, a person can pray and make audible “groanings,” but that person does not understand what such “groanings” mean. It is claimed that the Spirit of God is speaking through them in an audible manner, but they do not understand what they are saying while under this influence. Before any scripture is cited here, it should become apparent that the God of all wisdom, knowledge, and understanding is not working in such a matter. Why would God want us to pray to him, but not know what we are saying? In the many examples in the Bible where the actual prayer is recorded (Hannah - I Samuel 1:10-13, Hezekiah - Isaiah 38:1-3, Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane - Matthew 26:36-44, the apostles - Acts 4:23-31, etc.), it is very clear that the speaker understood what he or she was saying. Why would all of the scriptures where the actual words of the prayer are recorded involve a clear understanding, if we could pray without an understanding? God left these examples on record for our admonition (counsel, advice, or caution; gentle and goodwilled reproof; warning). Where is a scripture in the Bible where a person’s prayer is recorded and the person did NOT understand what he was saying?

Romans 8:26 is commonly used and misinterpreted concerning a prayer that the speaker does not understand.

“Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.”

“Groanings” - stenagmos (sten-ag-mos’); a sigh “Which cannot be uttered” - alaletos (al-al’-ay-tos); unspeakable

The latter part of this verse clearly states that we “cannot” utter (or speak) these groanings (sighs). If we CANNOT UTTER (speak) these groanings, then how can we still utter (speak) them in praying to God? The Word of God says that we CANNOT UTTER (speak) them! If the Word of God says that we CANNOT UTTER (speak) these groanings, then that means that we absolutely CANNOT UTTER (speak) them. When the Spirit makes intercession for us, we do not know it or hear it. Likewise, the Spirit is making intercession FOR us, so the SPIRIT does the talking (groanings) for us that we cannot utter (speak). The false tongues people distinctly note that they can “pray in tongues.” In other words, they speak a language that they do not understand while they are praying to God. This language, they claim, is given to them by the Spirit of God. In some cases, these people contend that it is a violation of the scripture to speak words that they do not understand while talking, but they also contend that it is acceptable to use words that they do not understand while praying. Hence, they are “praying in tongues.” This is another deception by the devil. Romans 8:26 still remains the same. The latter part of this verse clearly states that we “cannot” utter (or speak) these groanings (sighs). If we CANNOT UTTER (speak) these groanings, then how can we still utter (speak) them in praying to God? The Word of God says that we CANNOT UTTER (speak) them! If the Word of God says that we CANNOT UTTER (speak) these groanings, then that means that we absolutely CANNOT UTTER (speak) them.

Why would the God of all wisdom and knowledge leave the day of Pentecost on record if speaking in tongues meant something other than the example that occurs in the second chapter of Acts? The Bible teaches that “in the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established.” (II Corinthians 13:1) “There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification” “. . .Every man heard them speak in their own language.” Both I Corinthians 14:10 and Acts 2:6, 8, and 11 are in agreement concerning a language that is understood. The meaning of speaking in tongues, therefore, has been established. Speaking in tongues is the same as speaking in languages. It involves an understanding, not an unintelligible babbling that no one understands, including the speaker.

Isaiah 33:19-20 Thou shalt not see a fierce people, a people of a deeper speech than thou canst perceive; of a stammering tongue, that thou canst not understand. Look upon Zion, the city of our solemnities: thine eyes shall see Jerusalem a quiet habitation, a tabernacle that shall not be taken down; not one of the stakes thereof shall ever be removed, neither shall any of the cords thereof be broken.

(NOTE: The Hebrew word for “stammering” is “Laag.” It implies to “speak unintelligibly (as if imitating a foreigner); mock; scorn.)

I Corinthians 14th Chapter

This chapter should be examined with the understanding that the apostle Paul is writing to the Corinthian church to set several matters in order. The city of Corinth was a port city, and for that matter, people visited or migrated there from various parts of the known world. As a result, it could be described as a “cosmopolitan” city that reflected many cultures and, hence, many languages from various parts of the world. The variety of cultures and languages, therefore, had an impact on the congregation at Corinth. In addition, the cosmopolitan atmosphere in Corinth also made it a city of wickedness and lewdness. The ungodly practices of the city of Corinth undoubtedly had an effect on the church of God congregation at Corinth. As a result, Paul uses his first letter to the church at Corinth to set a number of things in order - carnality, division, incest, marriage, idolatry, hairstyles, gifts, and finally in the 14th chapter, tongues (languages) spoken in the congregation and women speaking in the congregation.

A common mistake in studying the 14th chapter of I Corinthians is to attempt to understand the chapter without putting the chapter in the context of the rest of the book. As stated, Paul used this book to set things in order. The Corinthian congregation had numerous problems as already reflected in the above paragraph. In the 14th chapter, therefore, Paul is addressing one of several problems in the congregation. With so many languages (tongues) spoken in the city of Corinth, the saints were speaking in various languages (tongues) in the worship services as well. This, of course, caused “confusion” since everyone in the congregation did not understand all of the languages that were being spoken. Paul simply provides instructions concerning how to conduct the worship services in a way that would avoid confusion with so many different languages (tongues) represented in the congregation.

Before the verse-by-verse analysis of I Corinthians 14th chapter begins, the following statements made in the introduction should be revisited. “The Bible definition of tongues is the same in the second chapter of Acts as it is in the fourteenth chapter of I Corinthians. This is supported by the Greek word used for “tongues” in both of these chapters. The Greek word for “tongues” used in Acts 2:4 and 11 is “glossa.” The Greek word for every reference to “tongues” used in I Corinthians 14th chapter is the same --“glossa.” Glossa means “a language.” Since the definitions are the same, then the manner in which “tongues” function in both chapters should be the same. This is a very important point since some attempt to teach that there are two types of tongues -- one type is found in Acts 2nd chapter and another type is found in I Corinthians 14th chapter. Yet, the Greek word “glossa” for “tongues” in both chapters is exactly the same. TONGUES IS A LANGUAGE THAT IS UNDERSTOOD BY THE SPEAKER - whether it’s in Acts 2nd chapter or I Corinthians 14th chapter.” The following examines the 14th chapter of I Corinthians using English and Spanish as examples. Actually, the names of any two languages can be substituted as a means of merely explaining what is meant in these verses.

1 Corinthians 14:1-40
1 Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy.

2 For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries.

Unknown - “This word was added by the translators for better readability in the English. There is no actual word in the Greek text. The word may be displayed in italics, or in parentheses or other brackets, to indicate that it is not in the original text.” (Strong’s Greek/Hebrew Dictionary)

Tongue - glossa (gloce-sah’) - a language (specially, one naturally unacquired)

Since the word “unknown” was added by the translators for better readability in English, and since there is no actual word in the Greek text, verse 2 can be read without the insertion of the word “unknown.” The false tongues doctrine has capitalized on a word - “unknown”-that did not appear in the original Greek text, but was added by the translators to help readability in English. The apostle Paul did NOT write about an “unknown” tongue. He wrote about a tongue / language. The translators added the word “unknown” long after Paul wrote the Corinthian epistles.

If a person enters an English-speaking congregation, and begins to speak in Spanish, he is speaking in a language. God understands the person, but the English-speaking congregation does not understand him (his language). Although he might be truly praising God (in the spirit), he is still speaking mysteries to the English-speaking congregation since they do not speak Spanish (his language). “No man” does not refer to the speaker. “No man” refers to everyone else except the speaker. The speaker understands what he is saying. According to verse 4, the speaker is edified.

3 But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.

The Greek version of prophet (prop heteuo) means “divine inspiration.” Divine inspiration is accompanied by understanding. Anything that is inspired by God is profitable. (II Timothy 3:16-17) If it is profitable for doctrine, for reproof for correction, for instruction in righteousness, then an understanding has to occur.

4 He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.

As stated earlier, the apostle Paul did NOT write about an “unknown” tongue. He wrote about a tongue / language. The translators added the word “unknown” long after Paul wrote the Corinthian epistles.

He that speaketh to the congregation in a language edifies himself It does not edify the congregation because they cannot understand what is being said. The speaker is edified because he understands what he is saying. The Greek word for “edifieth” is “Oikodomeo.” This means to be a house-builder; construct; build up; embolden. Edify means “to build up or increase the faith of; instruct or benefit.”

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, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying.

I would that ye all spake with tongues/languages, but rather that ye prophesied (or said those things that are divinely inspired by God and profitable for doctrine, for reproof for correction, for instruction in righteousness. II Timothy 3:16-17) Greater is he that is inspired by God to speak than he that speaketh with tongues/languages, except someone else in the congregation interprets what the person is saying to the English- speaking congregation.

6 Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine?

See comments for verse 5

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?

If the hearer cannot understand what is being said, then how shall the meaning of the statement be known. Even man realizes that objects must have a distinction in sound in order for the hearers to recognize the sound and obtain meaning or understanding.

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.

So unless the Spanish-speaking person speaks to the congregation in English (“utter by the tongue words easy to be understood”), how shall the English speakers know what the Spanish speaker is saying? For the Spanish speaker shall “speak into the air” in the English-speaking congregation.

10 There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification.

There are many, many languages (“kinds of voices”) spoken in the world, but ALL of them have meaning to the speakers or some hearers. The Old Testament and the New Testament both establish the same point that languages are understood by the speaker. These scriptures, therefore, do not support languages (“kinds of voices” or “tongues”) that are not understood by the speaker. Why would “religious people” hold to speaking a language that no one understands if the Bible does not support the existence of such a language?

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 church.

If one person speaks Spanish, and the other person speaks English, then each person is a barbarian to the other. There is no understanding. God is a God of wisdom, understanding, and knowledge. Since you are zealous of acquiring a spiritual gift and since various languages are being spoken in the Corinthian congregation, you should seek God for a gift that will provide understanding in the congregation, such as the gift of interpretation of tongues (languages). If the languages spoken in the congregation can be understood by all, through the assistance of someone with the gift of interpretation of tongues, then the congregation will be edified.

13 Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret.

As stated earlier, the apostle Paul did NOT write about an “unknown” tongue. He wrote about a tongue / language. The translators added the word “unknown” long after Paul wrote the Corinthian epistles.

If someone speaks to the English-speaking congregation in another language (tongue) such as Spanish, he should pray that he have the gift of interpreting tongues, so he can interpret in English. Nothing is too hard for God!

14 For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful.

As stated earlier, the apostle Paul did NOT write about an “unknown” tongue. He wrote about a tongue / language. The translators added the word “unknown” long after Paul wrote the Corinthian epistles.

If a Spanish-speaking brother prays out loud, I will bow my head in agreement, based on the fruit of holiness in his life, but I will not understand his language or tongue, unless God gives me the interpretation of Spanish.

15 What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.

I want to pray with those who are truly saved, and understand what they are saying. The same applies to singing. I can witness someone who is truly saved, sing a song, in the spirit, but in a foreign language. I want to, however, hear someone who is truly saved sing in a language that I understand.

16 Else when thou shalt bless with the 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?

Else, when a person prays in the spirit, but in a foreign language (i.e. Spanish), how shall the English speaker in the room (“the room of the unlearned”) say Amen at the Spanish speaker’s giving of thanks, seeing he does not understand Spanish?

17 For thou verily givest thanks well, but the other is not edified.

The Spanish speaker is truly giving thanks, but the English speaker does not understand the giving of thanks, so he is not edified.

18 I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all:

I thank my God, I speak with languages more than ye all. Paul was highly educated.

19 Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.

Paul is comparing five words to ten thousand words to show the importance of having an understanding. Yet in the church (congregation) I had rather speak five words in English (the language I understand), that by my voice (language) I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in Spanish, a language that the congregation does not understand. Paul is implying that five words of understanding are more important than ten thousand words with no understanding.

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 the Lord.
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.

These verses refer to the gift of tongues manifested on the Day of Pentecost. (See The Day of Pentecost)

23 If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those that are unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad? 24 But if all prophesy, and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all:
25 And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so falling down on his face he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth.
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 church; and let him speak to himself, and to God.

The practice of what can be described as “false tongues” does anything but keep silence in the church. It thrives on these loud, outward babblings as evidence that God is speaking through them, although the Bible clearly states that such persons should KEEP SILENCE in the church, unless someone is present with the gift of interpretation of tongues. Such babblings, however, cannot be of God since they are not according to the scriptures and they violate the scriptures, rightly divided.

40 Let all things be done decently and in order. (KJV)

This Publication is issued by
The Church of God of Forrest Citv, AR
Elder James Jennings, Pastor
December 2001 ©
1-877-708-6727
jjenni737 @aol.com
Written by Elder James Jennings (as led by the Spirit of God)

Reprinted by permission
Tracts of Truth (July 2002)