Hi Joyce, I just wanted to encourage you and let you know that God will never leave you, that is what the bible says. Although it may feel like He is far away sometimes, He isn't. Sometimes He is silent, that is true, but He is always there. Don't worry, Jesus loves you. Once you are saved, you can't be unsaved. The Lord has not forgotten about you, He died for you. I hope this encourages you, I will continue to pray for you.
1 Corinthians 14:33. "For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints."
Deuteronomy 31:8 "And the LORD, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed."
COGIC ADULTS MENS SUNDAY SCHOOL BOOK June 1,2025 Acts 2:1-7,12 KJV 1 Corinthians 14:13-19 KJV West Angeles Cogic Church Carhedral Los Angeles California
My COGIC Worship: 1 Corithians 15:3-4 KJV. Intro My Intrepretation: I Worship God allows me to work with my holy hands. I. My Intrepretation: I Worship God that allows those working with holy hands unto salvation. Verse 2 I Worship God giving a mouth to speak of God. Verse 3 My Intrepretation: I Worship God that gives cloven tongues of fire to sit upon us to be holy and live. Verse 4 I Worship God the Father only way Holy Ghost can work. II. I Worship God that gives gifts to build ourselves up ,elevate self and the church. Verse 16 I Worship God that blesses me to do the same things of God.
At one time we all spoke in one language on earth.
Genesis 11:1
And the whole earth was of onelanguage, and of one speech.
The Tower of Babel is when God made every man speak different languages and they all scattered because of confusion.
Genesis 11:9
Therefore is the name of it called Babel; because theLorddid there confound thelanguageof all the earth: and from thence did theLordscatter them abroad upon the face of all the earth.
The Jews were scattered all over the world and came together in the book of Acts to witness a miracle. The Jews spoke in different languages because of what country they all came from.
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 ownlanguage.
The gift of tongues was to be use to communicate to Jews with different languages in the word of God.
1 Corinthians 14:27
If any man speak in an unknowntongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret.
Because we have the complete written word of God and the Holy Spirit, we don't need the gift of speaking in tongues.
1 Corinthians 13:8
Charity neverfaileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shallfail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.
With all the technology of cellular, we all can translates languages very easily.
There is no prophecy in Apostle Paul's epistle for Israel promises or any happening during that dispensation of time. Prophecy is speaking the word for there was not the complete written Bible.
1 Corinthians 14:5
I would that ye all spake with tongues but rather that yeprophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying.
Romans 12:6
Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whetherprophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;
1 Corinthians 13:2
And though I have the gift ofprophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.
1 Timothy 4:14
Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee byprophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.
I'm assuming by what you have written in this thread that you are a single woman, or perhaps you are asking who a woman with no husband is supposed to ask (in response to 1 Corinthians 14:35). In this case, if a woman with no husband has questions during the service, why can't they ask the pastor afterwards? That's who they should be asking.
If you don't mind my asking, are you a pastor? And if I may ask a few more questions, in 1 Corinthians 14:34, women are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. Can you tell me what law this is referring to? Can you please share your understanding of 1 Timothy 2:11-12? What qualities must a pastor possess? Lastly, as far a church function, God has given us His order. Can you tell me what that order is?
Finally, I would like to say that all believers are equal, both men and women, but they have different functions and responsibilities. Does God use women to preach the gospel? Yes, but they are not to be placed in a position of authority over the men in the church. Regardless of what we think about this topic, the bible is clear that women are not allowed to be pastors!
I have been following along in this thread from the beginning and chose not to engage earlier because I thought there were some pretty solid answers given to support the fact that women are not allowed to be overseers or pastors in a church assembly. I would like to share a few thoughts of my own on this.
First, I am sorry to hear that you spent so much time reading from Genesis through Revelation trying to find where Paul said a woman shouldn't teach or be over a man. Since Paul's letters are only found in 13 books of the New Testament, you could have saved yourself a lot of time in your search.
You said, and I quote "I know he (Paul) gave the church of Corinthians instructions by writing them a letter in prison." I'm wondering how you know this for a fact since Paul was not in prison at the time he wrote the letter to the church in Corinth. Paul wrote this letter during his 3rd missionary journey, not while he was in prison.
I do agree with your conclusion on 1 Corinthians 14:34. Here, Paul is not giving instruction about who can or cannot pastor a church. Paul gives instruction elsewhere on this, and those sections of scripture have already been shared with you. Did you notice in this very same verse, it says nothing about the men? Also, you mention that you "have not read where Paul said a woman shouldn't teach or be over a man," but where does Paul say a woman can or should teach and be over a man? Or where does Paul say that a woman can be a pastor?
How was it Isreal specific? So, the bible is talked to just the people of Isreal Christ church we all are Christ Church. Thats what sounds like what you are saying. Acts 10 is significant as it marks a pivotal moment in the early Christian church, emphasizing the inclusivity of God's kingdom. This chapter reveals that salvation is available to all, breaking down ethnic barriers and highlighting that God does not show favoritism. It showcases the transformative power of the Holy Spirit and the importance of spreading the Gospel beyond traditional boundaries, particularly through Peter's vision and the conversion of Gentiles. With God not showing favoritism. All you got is 1st Timothy 3rd chapter and that's talking about the qualifications of a preacher and Deacon that's not saying a woman is not supposed to preach or teach or begin over a man, yet God had so many women in leadership positions. 1 Corinthians 14:34 woman is to be silent in church when Paul was in prison giving instruction to women who were unruly in church, so he told them to ask their husbands after church not saying that women are not to preach. Man has an order Jesus came so that all can be saved, and I am sure it doesn't matter what gender the Messager is. We have churches where there are women leading causes there are a few men or us women who are single and have no husband who are we going to to turn to? The only leg you got to stand on or those two chapters and you still have shown me any proof like I said in Acts chapter 10 salvation was extended to the gentiles thus Peter prejudices against by showing him a vision of all types of animals and he told Jesus that he don't eat unclean things but Jesus told him everything he makes is clean so it's not just Isreal its all of Christ followers just like a typical person who says that Paul said a woman cant preach teach or lead over a man when God uses all Flesh wisdom is refereed to as a woman we women are leaders and we hear from God.
It's very interesting that most people will not follow Apostle Paul's epistle for doctrine but will use his verse to align there belief .
They will use bride of Christ, Adoption of the Abraham, they will use speaking in tongue and the Lord's table. Now, I wonder if Peter, John, James and Jude speaks of all these subjects like Apostle Paul's epistle does.
My point is, Apostle Paul has all the answers to live a Christian life today for the Gentiles.
1. Bride of Christ
God is love and is marriage. Paul explains marriage by using the Church the body of Christ.
2 Corinthians 11:2
For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chastevirginto Christ
2. Speaking in tongue
Apostle Paul gives the rule for speaking in tongue.
1 Corinthians 14:27
If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be bytwo,orat the most bythree, and that by course; and let one interpret.
3. Adoption of Abraham
We that are saved have the blessings from Abraham through Jesus Christ.
Galatians 3:14
That theblessingofAbrahammight come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.
4. Lord's table
Apostle Paul gives the rules to the Gentiles for the Lord Table, because they were doing it all wrong.
1 Corinthians 10:16
The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?
May we fully understand why Jesus Christ chosen Apostle Paul and put the Twelve on the shelf for a season for the Kingdom of Heaven on earth to come. This is the Grace age of Church the body of Christ Jesus.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 the body of Christ Jesus is the Church today and we must believe the gospel .
Hello Fuji. That's a good question, because if we try to find reference to what the people said in John 12:34 in the Mosaic Law, even in the Pentateuch, then we will be disappointed. Sometimes, reference to the Law doesn't imply the Mosaic Law, but the Laws & all of the Word of God that is the body of the Old Testament. An example of this would be when Jesus answered the Jews in John 10:34, "Is it not written in your LAW, I said, Ye are gods?" It was never written in the Mosaic Law, but in Psalm 82:6, "I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High." And "gods" here is the other meaning of Elohim, and that is 'judges or rulers'. Another example is in John 15:25 (cf Psalm 35:19 & Psalm 69:4) or 1 Corinthians 14:21 (cf Isaiah 28:11,12).
So, the reference you gave won't be found in the Mosaic Law, but derived from the references elsewhere to Christ's eternal existence. And my Bible cross references the following to John 12:34: Psalm 110:4, Isaiah 9:7, and Daniel 7:13,14. Hope this helps a little.
1 Corinthians 14:23 - 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?
The word "mad" is the word maniac in Greek! I've seen meetings where everything is nice, and everything is flowing along, and then all of a sudden, a whole bunch of people jump up and just start jabbering, raising their hands and "speaking in tongues" or whatever it was that they called praising the Lord. People were jumping up and down and running around and rolling on the ground. And others were confused and saying, "What's going on around here?" But to the people that were doing it, they were supposedly "showing their spirituality." That's not spiritual at all!
1 Corinthians 14:28 - But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God.
If nobody's there to explain to the non-believer the sign they just witnessed, then be silent!
1 Corinthians 14:29 - Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge.
The word judge is the word for discernment. I think it's interesting that people are supposed to judge what they are hearing. In Acts Chapter 17, the Bereans eagerly received what Paul had to say, but they still searched the scriptures daily to see if it was true.
1 Corinthians 15:33 - Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.
He says everywhere from doctrine to your social life; it will not be the believer that rubs off onto the non-believer. It will always be those who have corrupt morals. They are the ones in social interaction with believers that are going to corrupt your good ethics. The word manners is ETHOS where we get our word ethics from. So don't be deceived. If you're living that life of eat, drink, and be merry for tomorrow we die, if you're hanging around that crowd, whatever good ethics you have is going to be down the drain.
1 Corinthians 14:13 - Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret.
Wherefore let him that speaks in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret. Again, the word interpret means explain. It does not mean translate! There are people in churches today where someone will get up and "speak in tongues" and then someone else will come forward and translate. That is not biblical.
1 Corinthians 14:14 - For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful.
For "if," same thing we had back in Chapter 13 Verse 1. He's not saying he does, but "if" I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful. The word understanding is the Greek word NOUS, for perception. He's telling them what they do! If my spirit prays, but I have no understanding (Bypassing the brain), my spirit prays but my understanding is unfruitful.
1 Corinthians 14:18 - I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all:
Paul says, "I thank my God that I speak with tongues more than you all:"
What a statement to make there! The one (Paul) who can speak in tongues (languages) more than anybody is the one who is correcting the problem! So, it's not like "Yea, I don't believe in that stuff. I've never done it and I never want to." Paul says, "No, God's Spirit through me has spoken in languages. I speak in languages more than you all." So that's not the problem!
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.
Does that tell you priority? Paul says that I would rather speak five words that everybody can understand, and it's for your spiritual benefit, than to speak in these unknown languages in ten thousand words. In fact, in the Greek, it's the word myriads which means infinity. The people in Corinth thought that it was spiritual to do that.
Now I encouraged you before and I will encourage you again to look up the mystic religions, the pagan mystic religions, and you will get a background on this. The spirituality was presented in these meetings as being so emotionally worked up into a frenzy that you bypass your brain. If you're still thinking, you haven't reached utopia.
Now some of the people couldn't reach that state. They were still thinking. They would give them alcohol and get them drunk to help them bypass the brain. And in their worship services, to reach this point of spirituality, it is interesting that they would clang cymbals. That's what Paul said earlier. If I don't have AGAPE, it's just clanging cymbals, noise!
And psychologically, it was to put their brain to sleep like hypnotism through the clanging of symbols. And if you couldn't bypass your brain to reach utopia, they would give you alcohol to drink. Now these people got saved. And now they're in the church and they're doing almost the exact same thing, only they are not doing it with cymbals and the pagan way of doing it. Somebody told them about the "gifts of the spirit."
They were being told that they can reach this level of spirituality and that they can speak the language of angels. They were being told that you are not in the spirit (meaning God's Spirit), unless you bypass the brain. And that's being taught today in the mainstream churches today. If someone says to me "I speak in the language of angels," I would say let's look what the word says about that. Right away they shut you off because they have to think. "Well, you know, there's other people that don't agree with that," or "that's your interpretation."
The only instruction or teaching about tongues in the whole bible is in 1 Corinthians 14:20-25. That's the only place! Where are people getting these mystic experiences that they call the gifts of the spirit and speaking in tongues? It's only taught in one place. We only have one example.
But they are finding other places, and they are pulling out little words here and there, like in Chapter 13 Verse 1 where Paul says though I speak with the tongue of angels. "Ooh, there it is. You see, Paul can speak with the language of angels!"
But that's not what he said. They're taking the word "though" as meaning even though I do. But that is not what he's saying. Besides that, and this is the golden rule about understanding the bible. Since we only know in part. We don't know everything. God didn't reveal everything to us.
If indeed 1 Corinthians 14:20-25 is the only place that instructs us about tongues, then everything else has to agree with it. All the little things that people try to pull out of the bible, they have to agree with 1 Corinthians 14:20-25.
There are people that will say "Yes, that's what Paul taught, but see over here Paul said that he spoke the language of angels." And they use that as an excuse and a justification for what they do. There's only one example of it and the only instruction is in Verses 20 to 25. These two facts are very important for this particular subject.
Now I would like to share some background information. When these non-Jewish people were in the pagan world, and it goes all the way back to Chapter 12 Verses 1 to 3 (the beginning of this whole section), he says "When you were following after those dumb idols."
The word dumb means voiceless, couldn't speak! And he's chiding them by saying "however you were led by them," like they are alive or something. They are not alive. They don't talk to you. But they were being led, according to them, by the spirit of this idol.
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.
I would that you all spoke with tongues, but rather that you prophesied:
Paul is not saying don't do it. But he says, "For greater is he that prophesies than he that speaks with tongues, except you interpret." This word "interpret" means explanation, which is what happened in Acts Chapter 2, that the church might receive edification. Interpret here does not mean to translate.
Now the prophet means a spokesperson, but he receives the word from God and gives the word of God to God's people. He does two things. He receives the word from God and gives the word of God to God's people.
In our day, a prophet would be somebody who takes the word of God, but there's no new revelation because we already have it in written form. He takes the word of God and ministers it to God's people. A prophet would be somebody who ministers the word to both believers and unbelievers. But a teacher would be somebody that ministers to God's people specifically.
As far as tongues are concerned, the only example of tongues (which means languages) is in Acts 2:1-13. This is the only place in the whole bible where you can actually read about it and its description. It's when the disciples were filled with God's Spirit on Pentecost, and they spoke the various languages of the various people that were in Jerusalem at that time. They were known languages that God gave them the ability to speak that they had not known.
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.
For he that speaks in an unknown tongue. I would like to share this about the King James because we've gone many years wondering why "unknown" is in italics. Obviously, it's not in the original text. But the translators are trying to get a message across. They're interpreting it for us.
An unknown tongue is something that is totally foreign to Christianity. It is foreign to the bible. It's unknown. Now the people who misuse what they call "speaking in tongues" today, they say "See, it's an unknown tongue. I'm just babbling and carrying on and it's something that is unknown to the human."
But that's not true. Paul is applying it to their fleshy human way they are going. It's not spiritual at all. He's telling them, for he that speaks in an unknown tongue, speaks not unto men, but unto God: for no man understands him; howbeit in the spirit he speaks mysteries.
1 Corinthians 14:3 - But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.
But he that prophesies speaks unto men. Three things: To edification, which means development. It's a construction term. It means to build a house. It means development. Secondly: Exhortation, which means to encourage. And thirdly: to comfort.
So, he says this person in your group that's "speaking in tongues," they're talking to God in all these mysteries and you're standing there going "What in the world is that all about?" But the person who ministers God's word, it's part of your development, encouragement, and comfort. You see, he's showing the contrast between the two, and the priority!
1 Corinthians 13:7 - Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
Love bears all things. The word beareth means to cover. In essence, God's love is more interested in covering someone's sin and weaknesses rather than exploit them. Love hopes all things. The word hope in Greek doesn't mean I "wish" it would. It's actually a word of expectancy. I expect everything's going to turn out okay. It's not a matter of positive thinking. It's a matter of God's Spirit saying, "God's love has got you covered!" And lastly: Love endures all things. All things! It remains under. It doesn't have to run away. It remains and endures all things.
1 Corinthians 14:1 - Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy.
Follow after charity, or AGAPE. The word follow means to chase. In other words, pursue AGAPE. And also, desire spiritual gifts. Again, notice the word "gifts" is in italics. It is literally spiritual things, those things of God's Spirit. Pursue AGAPE and desire spiritual things. That's the literal translation from the Greek. But rather that you may prophesy. Remember prophecy is giving the word of God. It is taking the revelation of God and ministering God's word to people.
SCHOOL BOOK JULY 28,2024 1 Corinthians 14:13-26 KJV
My Respond: COGIC WORSHIP- I worship Christ that is God, A God of understanding, A God that shows you who he is , A God that teaches you how to live. A God that who haves a heart, A God that gives you a heart like his A God that gives you freedom of actions, speaking, and to be in his presence-&church. A God that can be private and given privacy.
The sceptre shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh come; and unto him shall the gathering of the people be. ( Genesis 49:10)
If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. ( 1 Peter 4:11)
When taking a look at scripture; there are roles women play as Prophetess; prayer; teaching children; or the "virtuous woman" summing up Proverbs 31. When it comes to the 10 Commandments and the laws of the Lord in the Old Testament; or the rules about women remaining silent in the New Testament ( 1 Corinthians 14:34-35) it seems in regard to instruction in law continues as a man's responsibility. That would have further implications in regard to teaching established DOCTRINE related to the law; or the Gospel of Grace which expounds the full meaning of what is concealed in the Old Testament but revealed fully now.
When we try to fully grasp these concepts in human understanding; of course we fall short. An example that gives us insight is in Exodus 15:20 which shows Miriam; the older sister of Moses and Aaron as the first Prophetess in scripture. We could say in some way that Moses acted as the first Prophet in the Bible; at least in predicting what would happen to Israel in the last days in Deuteronomy 4; but Deuteronomy 18 talks about the coming Prophet like Moses who must be heeded (Christ). Technically Abraham was called a Prophet; the first example in the Bible but his predictions were toward his descendants when giving the family blessings at his death.
We see with Miriam that she foolishly spoke out about the second wife of Abraham of African descent and was struck with leprosy temporarily. Her best moment was in the role of the victory song as they crossed the Red Sea.
The real question is what is the goal: to please God or please man? We already know what God wants because its written down and is clear what it means. Naturally, some will try to twist that to mean whatever else they want it to mean, but that doesn't make it true. God knows our hearts when we try to distort the truth.
What does the Word of GOD say? 2Peter 3:8 - 8 But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one Day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one Day.
So, what matters and prevails is the Word of GOD, the Word is GOD, self-executing, understand?
We should know that 6000 years after Adam are pointing midnight at GOD's clock, so it is the turn from the sixth to the seventh Day, and Day of GOD's rest, so it is the END of the sixth and beginning of the seventh and last millennium, or seventh and last Day, the LORD's Day. But actually have already passed around 23 years, something like minites at GOD's clock.
Wake up, be careful, and get ready - Matthew 25:6. Take a look.
Lord JESUS will return in the day 1335 of this current millennium according the Word of GOD. The Word is GOD, self-executing.
Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand- Daniel 12:10.
If the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle? 1 Corinthians 14:8
Great question! How do you interpret something you don't understand? You can't. It is impossible to interpret something without first understanding what is being spoken.
Something that might help in understanding 1 Corinthians 14:13 is that the word interpret means explain. It does not mean translate. There are three point-blank facts the bible teaches on speaking in tongues.
Number 1: It is a known language. Not necessarily known to the person speaking, but it is a human language.
Number 2: It is a sign.
Number 3: It is to unbelievers, not believers.
The only example given to us is in Acts 2:1-13. Those who were speaking in tongues were speaking in known languages. There was no need for anyone to interpret or translate the tongues being spoken. In fact, in Acts 2:8, it says "And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?"
You see, they were not looking for someone to interpret or translate what was being said. Those who were speaking in tongues were speaking in known languages and it was understood by those who were hearing them speak. Acts 2:9-11 gives us a list of the languages from which they were speaking. And then Acts 2:12 says that "they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this?"
So, they were all amazed, and they were in doubt, saying one to another, what does this mean? Again, they weren't asking for anyone to interpret what they heard. They were needing an explanation. They're not asking what they were saying when they asked, "what does this mean?" They said we can hear them in our own languages, but what does this mean? They admit that it's a miracle, but they really don't know what's going on.
It's sad that what many call "speaking in tongues" today is not the tongues the bible teaches. The tongues in the bible were actual known human languages, not a bunch of babbling gibberish sounds that no one, not even the person speaking can understand.
Jesus set me free from the bar business and I got baptized in Jesus name Acts 2:38,39
Luke 24:47,48Mark 16:16,17 I received the Holy Ghost Acts 5:32Acts 2:4. 1 Corinthians 14: 2,22,39
John 3:1-6Acts 19:1-6. 1 Peter 3:21Proverbs 11:30. John 21:15 it is essential for Salvation to be baptized in Jesus name Acts 4:12 and be filled with His Holy Ghost power speaking in a brand new tongue Acts 2:4 , and live a holy life loving Jesus and loving others !
I'm going to politely assume you grew up Pentecostal and that's when you were told that speaking in tongues was proof of salvation. That just isn't true and I'll show you why.
1 Corinthians 14:26-28 is just saying if you are speaking in a tongue/another language you need an interpreter. Tongues were known languages. You see, tongues is used to say that they are speaking in a language they weren't taught. Proof of this is in Genesis 10:5 where the world was split because of the building of the tower of Babel, and God gave them each a different language or tongue.
Now the New Testament understanding of tongues is that you are filled with the spirit and in turn you can speak in tongues of other languages. That was completely reserved for the first century church and here is why:
1. It was clearly not a sign of salvation ( 1 Corinthians 14:22)
a. It was for the Jews ( 1 Corinthians 14:21) "This people" is God talking about Jews.
2. It was done away with ( 1 Corinthians 13:8-10)
a. "Tongues shall cease": the meaning of "that which is perfect" means the completion of scripture. So when Revelation was finished by the apostle John, tongues ceased.
3. Proof of salvation is by our works and not by signs ( James 2:14-19)
4. Tongues was never received after baptism, but after receiving the Holy Spirit ( Acts 10:44-48, Acts 19:6)
a. After receiving the Holy Ghost they would speak in tongues, it was not when they were baptized.
5. Tongues are not necessary ( 1 Corinthians 14:19)
As clearly seen, tongues were merely a sign for the Jews that was used by Spirit filled Christians which was done away with after scripture was completed; not proof of salvation. Salvation is completely through Christ and Christ alone. Romans 5:8, 6:23, 10:9, 10:23, and John 14:6. You don't need tongues to tell you that you are saved, you need the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
If you would like more elaboration, just respond back to this with your questions.
I agree with your statement David, but I think we need to be more specific. I wont call you intoxicated like Frankie did, but I do believe that you are just ignorant to certain scriptures. By ignorant I'm using it as the Bible does in the sense of you just haven't been taught.
So the Bible is the FINAL authority in the Christian life ( 2 Peter 1:19). I agree with Frankie that you need the Holy Spirit to discern the things of God in His word. The Bible clearly states that in 1 Peter 1:11-12. The Bible also says that we need a preacher, because how can we hear without one ( Romans 10:14). So the Bible was given by the Holy Spirit/God and needs to be discerned through that, because the Bible is of no private interpretation ( 2 Peter 1:20-21). God had a specific meaning for each word and only He can tell us what that is.
I also believe what the Bible says in Acts 2:17 that in the last days people will prophesy, have dreams, and visions. If the Bible says it, then it's true. That being said, since the Bible is the final authority, if anything they say happened in the prophesy, dream, or vision that goes against the Bible, then it's a false dream.
Here's how to discern if they are truly a "prophet" in the sense of them prophesying, dreaming, and having visions:
1. Does it follow scripture ( 2 Peter 3:16)
2. Look at their fruits ( Matthew 7:15-20)
3. It doesn't breed confusion ( 1 Corinthians 14:29-33)
4. It is of the Holy Ghost/Jesus ( 1 Corinthians 12:1-3, John 16:13-15)
I hope this was a help to you and there is definitely more studying that can go into this, but that's about the summary of this.
Biblical authority should come first in a Christian heart . If it contradicts the Word then where does it come from ? I'm sure we all know that the word devil is also meant as a ' deceiver ' . If we stick to what the Bible says we will not be deceived , the Spirit of Truth never contradicts the Word of God .
We are part of a church that still believes that a woman shouldn't teach nor usurp authority over a man. ( 1 Tim. 2:11,12). Women still have a role in teaching children and guiding the house. Just a proper order. In America we have lost some of these concepts through different "movements" and there is pressure for the church to follow along. Maybe that is also why we have some of the "gender identity" issues in America.
1 Corinthians 11:4 discusses a woman praying or prophesying with a head covering; hence the concept of silence is only perhaps in a formal service. It also may suggest that asking questions as a distraction isn't to happen rather than the concept of always remaining silent.
These verses also show the limit of a woman in regard to expression in worship settings since they are not to have authority over a man ( 1 Timothy 2:12). This fairly well mirrors the Old Testament where at least in the Book of Judges and a few other instances there were women acting as a Prophetess. There were no female priests at least with Judaism; these occurred with pagan rights quite often; however. It will be noted the consistency in messages at that time with God's overall plan in other texts as well as overall history. Judges 4:9 is an interesting passage with Deborah predicting victory in Sisera at the hands of a woman; perhaps that is one reason God used her. It is also said the lack of visions and available male prophets at the time may have necessitated God using her in this occasion.
There are cases where women would praise God in a prophetic manner; in Exodus 15 Moses started off with a victory song; and Miriam joined in later in verses 20-21. This shows they were in one accord.
If we survey what are the fruits or results of women who take on roles forbidden in scripture usually we see spurious doctrine manifest. 1 Samuel 15:23 reminds us that rebellion is as witchcraft. We see quite often the other half of the problem; namely men that are unwilling to take on the role as head of the household and the responsibilities in worship services. Thus we have a major part of the breakdown of society.
Women also need to fully take on teaching their children; guiding younger women as well as evangelizing to women in this generation; albeit perhaps leaving some more dangerous assignments to men. A woman with more intellegence can help men behind the scenes.
The phenomenon of speaking in Tongues was a legitimate means by which God spoke directly to Believers and the Church before the Bible was completed. And God laid down very specific rules for how that was to occur. It is interesting that God makes a distinction in 1 Cor 14 between the value of Tongues in the early Church verses Prophesying. And every True Believer is indeed a "prophet" as they faithfully declare the Word of God.
Once the Bible was completed with the book of Revelation, God declared in Rev 22:18 that He would never again speak directly to mankind apart from the Bible itself.
I am personally convinced that God allowed this phenomenon of Tongues in the early Church before the Bible had been completed as a testing program for our Day as to whether the Church and individuals would be satisfied with the Bible Alone as our Authority. Or would there be an insistence in additional Devine Revelation in addition to the Bible itself.
And is it not amazing how the Tongues phenomena and interest in Signs and Wonders has spread like wild fire with the charismatic movement during the last few decades.
This is just another evidence as to why our understanding of the Nature of the Bible is so very important in our Day.
1 Corinthians 14:33. "For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints."
Deuteronomy 31:8 "And the LORD, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed."
My COGIC Worship: 1 Corithians 15:3-4 KJV. Intro My Intrepretation: I Worship God allows me to work with my holy hands. I. My Intrepretation: I Worship God that allows those working with holy hands unto salvation. Verse 2 I Worship God giving a mouth to speak of God. Verse 3 My Intrepretation: I Worship God that gives cloven tongues of fire to sit upon us to be holy and live. Verse 4 I Worship God the Father only way Holy Ghost can work. II. I Worship God that gives gifts to build ourselves up ,elevate self and the church. Verse 16 I Worship God that blesses me to do the same things of God.
Genesis 11:1
And the whole earth was of onelanguage, and of one speech.
The Tower of Babel is when God made every man speak different languages and they all scattered because of confusion.
Genesis 11:9
Therefore is the name of it called Babel; because theLorddid there confound thelanguageof all the earth: and from thence did theLordscatter them abroad upon the face of all the earth.
The Jews were scattered all over the world and came together in the book of Acts to witness a miracle. The Jews spoke in different languages because of what country they all came from.
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 ownlanguage.
The gift of tongues was to be use to communicate to Jews with different languages in the word of God.
1 Corinthians 14:27
If any man speak in an unknowntongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret.
Because we have the complete written word of God and the Holy Spirit, we don't need the gift of speaking in tongues.
1 Corinthians 13:8
Charity neverfaileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shallfail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.
With all the technology of cellular, we all can translates languages very easily.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
1 Corinthians 14:5
I would that ye all spake with tongues but rather that yeprophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying.
Romans 12:6
Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whetherprophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;
1 Corinthians 13:2
And though I have the gift ofprophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.
1 Timothy 4:14
Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee byprophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
(Part 2):
I'm assuming by what you have written in this thread that you are a single woman, or perhaps you are asking who a woman with no husband is supposed to ask (in response to 1 Corinthians 14:35). In this case, if a woman with no husband has questions during the service, why can't they ask the pastor afterwards? That's who they should be asking.
If you don't mind my asking, are you a pastor? And if I may ask a few more questions, in 1 Corinthians 14:34, women are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. Can you tell me what law this is referring to? Can you please share your understanding of 1 Timothy 2:11-12? What qualities must a pastor possess? Lastly, as far a church function, God has given us His order. Can you tell me what that order is?
Finally, I would like to say that all believers are equal, both men and women, but they have different functions and responsibilities. Does God use women to preach the gospel? Yes, but they are not to be placed in a position of authority over the men in the church. Regardless of what we think about this topic, the bible is clear that women are not allowed to be pastors!
(Part 1):
I have been following along in this thread from the beginning and chose not to engage earlier because I thought there were some pretty solid answers given to support the fact that women are not allowed to be overseers or pastors in a church assembly. I would like to share a few thoughts of my own on this.
First, I am sorry to hear that you spent so much time reading from Genesis through Revelation trying to find where Paul said a woman shouldn't teach or be over a man. Since Paul's letters are only found in 13 books of the New Testament, you could have saved yourself a lot of time in your search.
You said, and I quote "I know he (Paul) gave the church of Corinthians instructions by writing them a letter in prison." I'm wondering how you know this for a fact since Paul was not in prison at the time he wrote the letter to the church in Corinth. Paul wrote this letter during his 3rd missionary journey, not while he was in prison.
I do agree with your conclusion on 1 Corinthians 14:34. Here, Paul is not giving instruction about who can or cannot pastor a church. Paul gives instruction elsewhere on this, and those sections of scripture have already been shared with you. Did you notice in this very same verse, it says nothing about the men? Also, you mention that you "have not read where Paul said a woman shouldn't teach or be over a man," but where does Paul say a woman can or should teach and be over a man? Or where does Paul say that a woman can be a pastor?
Please see part 2
They will use bride of Christ, Adoption of the Abraham, they will use speaking in tongue and the Lord's table. Now, I wonder if Peter, John, James and Jude speaks of all these subjects like Apostle Paul's epistle does.
My point is, Apostle Paul has all the answers to live a Christian life today for the Gentiles.
1. Bride of Christ
God is love and is marriage. Paul explains marriage by using the Church the body of Christ.
2 Corinthians 11:2
For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chastevirginto Christ
2. Speaking in tongue
Apostle Paul gives the rule for speaking in tongue.
1 Corinthians 14:27
If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be bytwo,orat the most bythree, and that by course; and let one interpret.
3. Adoption of Abraham
We that are saved have the blessings from Abraham through Jesus Christ.
Galatians 3:14
That theblessingofAbrahammight come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.
4. Lord's table
Apostle Paul gives the rules to the Gentiles for the Lord Table, because they were doing it all wrong.
1 Corinthians 10:16
The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?
May we fully understand why Jesus Christ chosen Apostle Paul and put the Twelve on the shelf for a season for the Kingdom of Heaven on earth to come. This is the Grace age of Church the body of Christ Jesus.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 the body of Christ Jesus is the Church today and we must believe the gospel .
So, the reference you gave won't be found in the Mosaic Law, but derived from the references elsewhere to Christ's eternal existence. And my Bible cross references the following to John 12:34: Psalm 110:4, Isaiah 9:7, and Daniel 7:13,14. Hope this helps a little.
1 Corinthians 14:23 - 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?
The word "mad" is the word maniac in Greek! I've seen meetings where everything is nice, and everything is flowing along, and then all of a sudden, a whole bunch of people jump up and just start jabbering, raising their hands and "speaking in tongues" or whatever it was that they called praising the Lord. People were jumping up and down and running around and rolling on the ground. And others were confused and saying, "What's going on around here?" But to the people that were doing it, they were supposedly "showing their spirituality." That's not spiritual at all!
1 Corinthians 14:28 - But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God.
If nobody's there to explain to the non-believer the sign they just witnessed, then be silent!
1 Corinthians 14:29 - Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge.
The word judge is the word for discernment. I think it's interesting that people are supposed to judge what they are hearing. In Acts Chapter 17, the Bereans eagerly received what Paul had to say, but they still searched the scriptures daily to see if it was true.
1 Corinthians 15:33 - Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.
He says everywhere from doctrine to your social life; it will not be the believer that rubs off onto the non-believer. It will always be those who have corrupt morals. They are the ones in social interaction with believers that are going to corrupt your good ethics. The word manners is ETHOS where we get our word ethics from. So don't be deceived. If you're living that life of eat, drink, and be merry for tomorrow we die, if you're hanging around that crowd, whatever good ethics you have is going to be down the drain.
1 Corinthians 14:13 - Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret.
Wherefore let him that speaks in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret. Again, the word interpret means explain. It does not mean translate! There are people in churches today where someone will get up and "speak in tongues" and then someone else will come forward and translate. That is not biblical.
1 Corinthians 14:14 - For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful.
For "if," same thing we had back in Chapter 13 Verse 1. He's not saying he does, but "if" I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful. The word understanding is the Greek word NOUS, for perception. He's telling them what they do! If my spirit prays, but I have no understanding (Bypassing the brain), my spirit prays but my understanding is unfruitful.
1 Corinthians 14:18 - I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all:
Paul says, "I thank my God that I speak with tongues more than you all:"
What a statement to make there! The one (Paul) who can speak in tongues (languages) more than anybody is the one who is correcting the problem! So, it's not like "Yea, I don't believe in that stuff. I've never done it and I never want to." Paul says, "No, God's Spirit through me has spoken in languages. I speak in languages more than you all." So that's not the problem!
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.
Does that tell you priority? Paul says that I would rather speak five words that everybody can understand, and it's for your spiritual benefit, than to speak in these unknown languages in ten thousand words. In fact, in the Greek, it's the word myriads which means infinity. The people in Corinth thought that it was spiritual to do that.
1 Corinthians 14:5 Continued...
Now I encouraged you before and I will encourage you again to look up the mystic religions, the pagan mystic religions, and you will get a background on this. The spirituality was presented in these meetings as being so emotionally worked up into a frenzy that you bypass your brain. If you're still thinking, you haven't reached utopia.
Now some of the people couldn't reach that state. They were still thinking. They would give them alcohol and get them drunk to help them bypass the brain. And in their worship services, to reach this point of spirituality, it is interesting that they would clang cymbals. That's what Paul said earlier. If I don't have AGAPE, it's just clanging cymbals, noise!
And psychologically, it was to put their brain to sleep like hypnotism through the clanging of symbols. And if you couldn't bypass your brain to reach utopia, they would give you alcohol to drink. Now these people got saved. And now they're in the church and they're doing almost the exact same thing, only they are not doing it with cymbals and the pagan way of doing it. Somebody told them about the "gifts of the spirit."
They were being told that they can reach this level of spirituality and that they can speak the language of angels. They were being told that you are not in the spirit (meaning God's Spirit), unless you bypass the brain. And that's being taught today in the mainstream churches today. If someone says to me "I speak in the language of angels," I would say let's look what the word says about that. Right away they shut you off because they have to think. "Well, you know, there's other people that don't agree with that," or "that's your interpretation."
1 Corinthians 14:5 Continued...
The only instruction or teaching about tongues in the whole bible is in 1 Corinthians 14:20-25. That's the only place! Where are people getting these mystic experiences that they call the gifts of the spirit and speaking in tongues? It's only taught in one place. We only have one example.
But they are finding other places, and they are pulling out little words here and there, like in Chapter 13 Verse 1 where Paul says though I speak with the tongue of angels. "Ooh, there it is. You see, Paul can speak with the language of angels!"
But that's not what he said. They're taking the word "though" as meaning even though I do. But that is not what he's saying. Besides that, and this is the golden rule about understanding the bible. Since we only know in part. We don't know everything. God didn't reveal everything to us.
If indeed 1 Corinthians 14:20-25 is the only place that instructs us about tongues, then everything else has to agree with it. All the little things that people try to pull out of the bible, they have to agree with 1 Corinthians 14:20-25.
There are people that will say "Yes, that's what Paul taught, but see over here Paul said that he spoke the language of angels." And they use that as an excuse and a justification for what they do. There's only one example of it and the only instruction is in Verses 20 to 25. These two facts are very important for this particular subject.
Now I would like to share some background information. When these non-Jewish people were in the pagan world, and it goes all the way back to Chapter 12 Verses 1 to 3 (the beginning of this whole section), he says "When you were following after those dumb idols."
The word dumb means voiceless, couldn't speak! And he's chiding them by saying "however you were led by them," like they are alive or something. They are not alive. They don't talk to you. But they were being led, according to them, by the spirit of this idol.
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.
I would that you all spoke with tongues, but rather that you prophesied:
Paul is not saying don't do it. But he says, "For greater is he that prophesies than he that speaks with tongues, except you interpret." This word "interpret" means explanation, which is what happened in Acts Chapter 2, that the church might receive edification. Interpret here does not mean to translate.
Now the prophet means a spokesperson, but he receives the word from God and gives the word of God to God's people. He does two things. He receives the word from God and gives the word of God to God's people.
In our day, a prophet would be somebody who takes the word of God, but there's no new revelation because we already have it in written form. He takes the word of God and ministers it to God's people. A prophet would be somebody who ministers the word to both believers and unbelievers. But a teacher would be somebody that ministers to God's people specifically.
As far as tongues are concerned, the only example of tongues (which means languages) is in Acts 2:1-13. This is the only place in the whole bible where you can actually read about it and its description. It's when the disciples were filled with God's Spirit on Pentecost, and they spoke the various languages of the various people that were in Jerusalem at that time. They were known languages that God gave them the ability to speak that they had not known.
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.
For he that speaks in an unknown tongue. I would like to share this about the King James because we've gone many years wondering why "unknown" is in italics. Obviously, it's not in the original text. But the translators are trying to get a message across. They're interpreting it for us.
An unknown tongue is something that is totally foreign to Christianity. It is foreign to the bible. It's unknown. Now the people who misuse what they call "speaking in tongues" today, they say "See, it's an unknown tongue. I'm just babbling and carrying on and it's something that is unknown to the human."
But that's not true. Paul is applying it to their fleshy human way they are going. It's not spiritual at all. He's telling them, for he that speaks in an unknown tongue, speaks not unto men, but unto God: for no man understands him; howbeit in the spirit he speaks mysteries.
1 Corinthians 14:3 - But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.
But he that prophesies speaks unto men. Three things: To edification, which means development. It's a construction term. It means to build a house. It means development. Secondly: Exhortation, which means to encourage. And thirdly: to comfort.
So, he says this person in your group that's "speaking in tongues," they're talking to God in all these mysteries and you're standing there going "What in the world is that all about?" But the person who ministers God's word, it's part of your development, encouragement, and comfort. You see, he's showing the contrast between the two, and the priority!
1 Corinthians 13:7 - Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
Love bears all things. The word beareth means to cover. In essence, God's love is more interested in covering someone's sin and weaknesses rather than exploit them. Love hopes all things. The word hope in Greek doesn't mean I "wish" it would. It's actually a word of expectancy. I expect everything's going to turn out okay. It's not a matter of positive thinking. It's a matter of God's Spirit saying, "God's love has got you covered!" And lastly: Love endures all things. All things! It remains under. It doesn't have to run away. It remains and endures all things.
1 Corinthians 14:1 - Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy.
Follow after charity, or AGAPE. The word follow means to chase. In other words, pursue AGAPE. And also, desire spiritual gifts. Again, notice the word "gifts" is in italics. It is literally spiritual things, those things of God's Spirit. Pursue AGAPE and desire spiritual things. That's the literal translation from the Greek. But rather that you may prophesy. Remember prophecy is giving the word of God. It is taking the revelation of God and ministering God's word to people.
SCHOOL BOOK JULY 28,2024 1 Corinthians 14:13-26 KJV
My Respond: COGIC WORSHIP- I worship Christ that is God, A God of understanding, A God that shows you who he is , A God that teaches you how to live. A God that who haves a heart, A God that gives you a heart like his A God that gives you freedom of actions, speaking, and to be in his presence-&church. A God that can be private and given privacy.
The sceptre shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh come; and unto him shall the gathering of the people be. ( Genesis 49:10)
If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. ( 1 Peter 4:11)
When taking a look at scripture; there are roles women play as Prophetess; prayer; teaching children; or the "virtuous woman" summing up Proverbs 31. When it comes to the 10 Commandments and the laws of the Lord in the Old Testament; or the rules about women remaining silent in the New Testament ( 1 Corinthians 14:34-35) it seems in regard to instruction in law continues as a man's responsibility. That would have further implications in regard to teaching established DOCTRINE related to the law; or the Gospel of Grace which expounds the full meaning of what is concealed in the Old Testament but revealed fully now.
When we try to fully grasp these concepts in human understanding; of course we fall short. An example that gives us insight is in Exodus 15:20 which shows Miriam; the older sister of Moses and Aaron as the first Prophetess in scripture. We could say in some way that Moses acted as the first Prophet in the Bible; at least in predicting what would happen to Israel in the last days in Deuteronomy 4; but Deuteronomy 18 talks about the coming Prophet like Moses who must be heeded (Christ). Technically Abraham was called a Prophet; the first example in the Bible but his predictions were toward his descendants when giving the family blessings at his death.
We see with Miriam that she foolishly spoke out about the second wife of Abraham of African descent and was struck with leprosy temporarily. Her best moment was in the role of the victory song as they crossed the Red Sea.
1 Corinthians 14:34
1 Timothy 2:11-12
The real question is what is the goal: to please God or please man? We already know what God wants because its written down and is clear what it means. Naturally, some will try to twist that to mean whatever else they want it to mean, but that doesn't make it true. God knows our hearts when we try to distort the truth.
What does the Word of GOD say? 2Peter 3:8 - 8 But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one Day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one Day.
So, what matters and prevails is the Word of GOD, the Word is GOD, self-executing, understand?
We should know that 6000 years after Adam are pointing midnight at GOD's clock, so it is the turn from the sixth to the seventh Day, and Day of GOD's rest, so it is the END of the sixth and beginning of the seventh and last millennium, or seventh and last Day, the LORD's Day. But actually have already passed around 23 years, something like minites at GOD's clock.
Wake up, be careful, and get ready - Matthew 25:6. Take a look.
Lord JESUS will return in the day 1335 of this current millennium according the Word of GOD. The Word is GOD, self-executing.
Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand- Daniel 12:10.
If the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle? 1 Corinthians 14:8
Great question! How do you interpret something you don't understand? You can't. It is impossible to interpret something without first understanding what is being spoken.
Something that might help in understanding 1 Corinthians 14:13 is that the word interpret means explain. It does not mean translate. There are three point-blank facts the bible teaches on speaking in tongues.
Number 1: It is a known language. Not necessarily known to the person speaking, but it is a human language.
Number 2: It is a sign.
Number 3: It is to unbelievers, not believers.
The only example given to us is in Acts 2:1-13. Those who were speaking in tongues were speaking in known languages. There was no need for anyone to interpret or translate the tongues being spoken. In fact, in Acts 2:8, it says "And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?"
You see, they were not looking for someone to interpret or translate what was being said. Those who were speaking in tongues were speaking in known languages and it was understood by those who were hearing them speak. Acts 2:9-11 gives us a list of the languages from which they were speaking. And then Acts 2:12 says that "they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this?"
So, they were all amazed, and they were in doubt, saying one to another, what does this mean? Again, they weren't asking for anyone to interpret what they heard. They were needing an explanation. They're not asking what they were saying when they asked, "what does this mean?" They said we can hear them in our own languages, but what does this mean? They admit that it's a miracle, but they really don't know what's going on.
It's sad that what many call "speaking in tongues" today is not the tongues the bible teaches. The tongues in the bible were actual known human languages, not a bunch of babbling gibberish sounds that no one, not even the person speaking can understand.
Hope this helps!
Luke 24:47,48 Mark 16:16,17 I received the Holy Ghost Acts 5:32 Acts 2:4. 1 Corinthians 14: 2,22,39
John 3:1-6 Acts 19:1-6. 1 Peter 3:21 Proverbs 11:30. John 21:15 it is essential for Salvation to be baptized in Jesus name Acts 4:12 and be filled with His Holy Ghost power speaking in a brand new tongue Acts 2:4 , and live a holy life loving Jesus and loving others !
Luke 24:47,48 Jesus said!
Mark 16:16,17 Jesus said!
Acts 2:38,39 Peter preached what Jesus said!
Acts 4:12 No other name!
John 3:1-6 Must be born again of the water & Spirit!
1 Peter 3:21 Baptism saves us!
Acts 10:44-48 Can't be good enough without Jesus!
Acts 8:1-6 Ethiopian Eunic gets baptized in Jesus name and starts a 2000 plus year revival still going on today !
Acts 19:1-6 have you received the Holy Ghost since you been a believer?
Acts 5:32 gotta obey Him!
1 Corinthians 14:2,22,39 tongues are for a sign!
Acts 2:4 The Spirit gives the utterance!
Acts 1:8 Receive power !
John 21:15 Jesus loves you dearly!!!!!!!
1 Corinthians 14:26-28 is just saying if you are speaking in a tongue/another language you need an interpreter. Tongues were known languages. You see, tongues is used to say that they are speaking in a language they weren't taught. Proof of this is in Genesis 10:5 where the world was split because of the building of the tower of Babel, and God gave them each a different language or tongue.
Now the New Testament understanding of tongues is that you are filled with the spirit and in turn you can speak in tongues of other languages. That was completely reserved for the first century church and here is why:
1. It was clearly not a sign of salvation ( 1 Corinthians 14:22)
a. It was for the Jews ( 1 Corinthians 14:21) "This people" is God talking about Jews.
2. It was done away with ( 1 Corinthians 13:8-10)
a. "Tongues shall cease": the meaning of "that which is perfect" means the completion of scripture. So when Revelation was finished by the apostle John, tongues ceased.
3. Proof of salvation is by our works and not by signs ( James 2:14-19)
4. Tongues was never received after baptism, but after receiving the Holy Spirit ( Acts 10:44-48, Acts 19:6)
a. After receiving the Holy Ghost they would speak in tongues, it was not when they were baptized.
5. Tongues are not necessary ( 1 Corinthians 14:19)
As clearly seen, tongues were merely a sign for the Jews that was used by Spirit filled Christians which was done away with after scripture was completed; not proof of salvation. Salvation is completely through Christ and Christ alone. Romans 5:8, 6:23, 10:9, 10:23, and John 14:6. You don't need tongues to tell you that you are saved, you need the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
If you would like more elaboration, just respond back to this with your questions.
So the Bible is the FINAL authority in the Christian life ( 2 Peter 1:19). I agree with Frankie that you need the Holy Spirit to discern the things of God in His word. The Bible clearly states that in 1 Peter 1:11-12. The Bible also says that we need a preacher, because how can we hear without one ( Romans 10:14). So the Bible was given by the Holy Spirit/God and needs to be discerned through that, because the Bible is of no private interpretation ( 2 Peter 1:20-21). God had a specific meaning for each word and only He can tell us what that is.
I also believe what the Bible says in Acts 2:17 that in the last days people will prophesy, have dreams, and visions. If the Bible says it, then it's true. That being said, since the Bible is the final authority, if anything they say happened in the prophesy, dream, or vision that goes against the Bible, then it's a false dream.
Here's how to discern if they are truly a "prophet" in the sense of them prophesying, dreaming, and having visions:
1. Does it follow scripture ( 2 Peter 3:16)
2. Look at their fruits ( Matthew 7:15-20)
3. It doesn't breed confusion ( 1 Corinthians 14:29-33)
4. It is of the Holy Ghost/Jesus ( 1 Corinthians 12:1-3, John 16:13-15)
I hope this was a help to you and there is definitely more studying that can go into this, but that's about the summary of this.
These verses also show the limit of a woman in regard to expression in worship settings since they are not to have authority over a man ( 1 Timothy 2:12). This fairly well mirrors the Old Testament where at least in the Book of Judges and a few other instances there were women acting as a Prophetess. There were no female priests at least with Judaism; these occurred with pagan rights quite often; however. It will be noted the consistency in messages at that time with God's overall plan in other texts as well as overall history. Judges 4:9 is an interesting passage with Deborah predicting victory in Sisera at the hands of a woman; perhaps that is one reason God used her. It is also said the lack of visions and available male prophets at the time may have necessitated God using her in this occasion.
There are cases where women would praise God in a prophetic manner; in Exodus 15 Moses started off with a victory song; and Miriam joined in later in verses 20-21. This shows they were in one accord.
If we survey what are the fruits or results of women who take on roles forbidden in scripture usually we see spurious doctrine manifest. 1 Samuel 15:23 reminds us that rebellion is as witchcraft. We see quite often the other half of the problem; namely men that are unwilling to take on the role as head of the household and the responsibilities in worship services. Thus we have a major part of the breakdown of society.
Women also need to fully take on teaching their children; guiding younger women as well as evangelizing to women in this generation; albeit perhaps leaving some more dangerous assignments to men. A woman with more intellegence can help men behind the scenes.
Thanks
The phenomenon of speaking in Tongues was a legitimate means by which God spoke directly to Believers and the Church before the Bible was completed. And God laid down very specific rules for how that was to occur. It is interesting that God makes a distinction in 1 Cor 14 between the value of Tongues in the early Church verses Prophesying. And every True Believer is indeed a "prophet" as they faithfully declare the Word of God.
Once the Bible was completed with the book of Revelation, God declared in Rev 22:18 that He would never again speak directly to mankind apart from the Bible itself.
I am personally convinced that God allowed this phenomenon of Tongues in the early Church before the Bible had been completed as a testing program for our Day as to whether the Church and individuals would be satisfied with the Bible Alone as our Authority. Or would there be an insistence in additional Devine Revelation in addition to the Bible itself.
And is it not amazing how the Tongues phenomena and interest in Signs and Wonders has spread like wild fire with the charismatic movement during the last few decades.
This is just another evidence as to why our understanding of the Nature of the Bible is so very important in our Day.