The Baptism & Gifts of Holy Spirit

7/30/2019 The Baptism & Gifts of Holy Spirit

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Understanding The Baptism Of Holy SpiritBy Bobby Long Th.D

My prayer is to help Christians get a better understanding of the biblical teaching on the

Baptism and gifts of the Holy Spirit. Before we get started, please understand that I believe

the gifts are for today. I believe the gifts are a vital part of the church and that the church

cannot operate in the full extent that Christ would have it operate without them.

My kids go to karate. I watch as they try to mimic their instructors. As they emulate the

teacher, they may have a foot in the wrong place or they may not be standing correctly. Bad

form leads to bad habits. I see the other teachers come behind my kids and take them by the

shoulders or by the arm and place them in the correct position; good form develops good

habits. My boys were being instructed to do things right in the beginning so as they learned,

they have a good fundamental foundation on which to build. Practice does not make perfect,

perfect practice makes perfect.

On any given Sunday, one may visit a hyper charismatic church or, on the other end of the

spectrum, they may attend a church that believes the gifts are not for today. They see people

that exercising [or not] their charismata; however, they are in bad form. How do I know?Look at the strife, discontent, division, and pride that, is so prevalent, not to mention

unbiblical. This has been going on for years. Tell me then; how can they be in good form,

yet be so messed up! Something is wrong. The formation of unbiblical habits has led to

unbiblical charismata [or lack of]. True charismata will exhibit agape love.


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The gift of tongues will come up frequently, so I want to give a Biblical definition that fits

what scripture tells us about tongues. The gift of tongues is a gift from God (1Cor. 12:11)

where the chosen recipient [by the Holy Spirit] expresses the inexpressible TO God (1Cor.

14:2). What do I mean by that? There may be times when the known vocabulary cannot

express the prayer, praise, or declaration in words that the heart desires. The spirit then helps

in that weakness. We have faith that what the Spirit is praying is what we want conveyed

except in a language that is beyond understanding. This is what it is.

There is only one gift of tongues which is synonymous with tongues throughout scripture.

Do all have this ability? NO (1Cor. 12:30). It is a gift that is given by God to whom He

chooses. It cannot be learned, taught, bought, or forced; it is not a gift the believer gets by

DEFALT. 1 Cor. 14:15 tells us that with the Spirit wepray to God,sing to God, and bless

God. Does that mean that when I pray with understanding, or I groan in my spirit that which

words cannot express, its really not a spirit filled prayer and my prayer is less effective? By

NO means! The Bible clearly says that the prayer of a righteous man avails much (James

5:16). Tongues is a gift of God given to whom He chooses by which that individual prays

outside their understanding when a known vocabulary is not enough to express what they

wish to convey (1Cor. 14:2, 14). Do I have to pray in tongues when my spirit groans; NO.

Let me turn my attention to prophecy. Prophecy does not come to us by the gift of tongues

(1Cor. 14:6&19). Prophecy is not the interpretation of the gift of tongues. By means of

sheer definition, interpretation is translation from one dialect to another. If I said, What is 2

+ 2? in French and I asked for the interpretation or translation of what I just said in English,

what would the interpretation be? Answer: What is 2 + 2? The interpretation would not

be 4. Prophecy comes to us by means ofGod speaking to man (1Cor. 29-32). Man must

discern if what God gave is individualistic in nature or something God wants to share with

others. The words of prophecy are always subject to the prophet (1Cor. 14:32). A good

definition of prophecy is found in 1 Corinthians 14:3. Prophecy edifies, exhorts, and

comforts.


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In a private setting, we may pray in tongues TO God and God reveal something to us in the

form of a prophecy (1Cor. 14:31). God gives us words of edification, exhortation, and

comfort. In a congregational setting, where someone stands up, draws attention to them

selves, and speaks in a tongue, the interpretation should not be prophecy, words of

knowledge, wisdom or revelation (1Cor. 14:6). The interpretation of the tongue should be

what was put forth in tongues. It should be the inspired interpretation of what the tongue of

the man said TO God. If the interpretation is directed FROM God TO man, then by all

Biblical accounts it is not the correct interpretation (1Cror 14:15, 16, 17). Does that mean

that it was not of God? NO. What was bypassed was the interpretation of the tongue.

Does this mean that one cannot pray in tongues to themselves during a church service and

receive a prophecy from God that is for the congregation; By all means, NO. However, the

prophecy shared with the congregation will come in a known language and not a tongue

(1Cor. 14:19). There is no need to interpret this tongue because it was not shared with the

congregation. Can God supernaturally interpret words of prophecy to so that others of

another dialect understand and be exhorted, edified, and comforted? YES

With this said, I will now try to explain what I just put forth.


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Baptism of the Holy Spirit does not always

result in the gift of tongues.

We will take each of the instances of the Baptism of the Holy Spirit one by one.

The Baptism of Jesus (Luke 3:22)

The first and most overlooked scripture that deals with this is the Holy Spirit Baptism of

Jesus Himself. We find,

and the Holy Spirit descended upon Him in bodily form like a dove, and a voice

came out of heaven, "You are My beloved Son, in You I am well-pleased."Luke 3:22.

This brings me to my first point. The Baptism of the Holy Spirit enables the believer to face

the temptations and trials of this world and to live a victorious Christian life of service

through Godly agape love.

Before Jesus started His formal ministry, He was empowered by the Holy Spirit when the

Holy Spirit fell upon (epee) Him. To say that Jesus didnt need the power of the Holy Spirit

upon His life is to deny His humanity. Jesus was 100% man and 100% deity. To deny

either is heresy. Because Jesus was a man, the empowering of the Holy Spirit was a pre-

requisite for victory in His life. Nowhere in scripture does it account that Jesus spoke intongues.


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The Promise of Power

In Luke, we see Jesus providing the same path to His disciples that He took. Jesus didnt

want them in the world without the empowering of the Holy Spirit. He instructs them to wait

until they are empowered from on high. Again, there is no mention by Jesus of tongues in

this conversation. The monumental effect on the disciples will bepower for ministry.

"And behold, I am sending forth the promise of My Fatherupon you; but you are to

stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high." Luke 24:29

In the book of Acts in chapter 1, we find the promise being restated and the mission that the

powerof the promise will help them undertake.

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon [epee] you, and

you will be my witnesses [martuv martus Martyr witness in a legal, social, andethical sense.] in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the farthest

partsof the earth.Acts 1:8

Jesus was telling them what to look for and what to expect. This brings up the question,

Why do we look for a sign other than what we were told to look for by Jesus Himself?

The undeniable characteristic of the baptism of Holy Spirit is a life that is unshakable in their

witness. In every sense of the word, they become a martyr for Christ. I think the answer

is 3 fold.

1. We want to know now It is our nature to want to know and have confirmationimmediately.

2. The alternative may yield uncomfortableresults It is so much easier to point to atime and place and an event and say, This is when I received the Holy Ghost. How

do you know? Because I spoke in tongues. What if we were to look for the

power for ministry and witness that Jesus told us to look for? What if we examinedour life and saw no power? What if we examined our life and saw no fruit? I feel

that people are more comfortable with disillusionment than with the truth.

3. Tongues is something that I can counterfeit; supernatural fruit is something that Icannot. Enough said.


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The Promise Fulfilled

Acts 2

In Acts 2 we see the prophecy of Joel being fulfill in that the Spirit of God was being poured

out on all flesh not just the Jews. The time is Pentecost and every able body Jewish man is in

Jerusalem. Some scholars believe there could have been as many as 3 million people in the

city at that time. Contrary to popular belief, Acts 2 has nothing to do with speaking in

tongues but the pouring out of THE PROMISE, who is the Holy Spirit on ALL.

Acts 2: 2-4 And suddenly there came from heaven a noise like a violent rushing

wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. And there appeared to

them tongues as of fire distributing themselves, and they rested on each one of them.

Andthey were all filled with the Holy Spiritandbegan to speak with other tongues,as the Spirit was giving them utterance. NASB

They did not speak in tongues as a result of the Baptism but in addition to the Baptism.

They spoke in tongues as the Holy Spirit GAVE them the gift of tongues.

The disciples were in the upper room waiting as instructed. Then a hurricane force wind

blew in causing the crowd of people to start to gather outside the upper room to see what was

happening. When the Jewish crowd got there, they found the disciples declaring the

wonderful works of Godin their native tongue (Acts 2:11) .. as the Spiritenabledthem.

11 Cretans and Arabs--we hear them speaking in our own tongues the wonderful

works of God."

The word enabled is the word, didmi. It means:

1) to give

2) to give something to someone

a) of one's own accord to give one something, to his advantage1) to bestow a gift

b)to grant, give to one asking, let have

c) to supply, furnish, necessary things


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God gave the gift in Acts 2; it was not something that happened as a resultof anything. The

gift of tongues is not the overflow effect of the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. It is given by

God to those He chooses to enable. This view is consistent with the gift of tongues found in

Corinthians when Paul says theHoly Spirit gives gifts as He chooses.

There are a few things to notice here.

1. The tongues were over heard; the disciples were notspeaking directly to the people.2. The tongues came as God enabledthem or better yet, As God GAVE them.3. Teachers sat, heralds proclaimed; Peter stood and proclaimed the gospel in a known

language (probably Konia Greek due to Alexanders proclamation)

This is what we know. This is all we know concerning the gift of tongues in this instance.

However, this is not the purpose nor is it the thrust of Peters message. The thrust of Petersmessage was to repent and believe on Christ and Him crucified.

It was Peters declaring the gospel under the newly gained power of Holy Spirit that

convicted the hearts of the Jews and prompted the question:

"Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus,whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ." 37 Now when they heard this, they were

cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, "Men and brethren,

what shall we do?"

Peter was exhibiting the power to be Jesus witness (martyr) in Jerusalem just as Jesus said

they would do. It wasnt the tongue that takes main stage in this story, it is the power of the

gospel of Jesus Christ and that power being used to bring the lost to repentance.

The giftof the Holy Spirit is literally talking about the person of the Holy Spirit which is

called the promise.

and you shall receive the giftof the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is to you andto your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call."

Acts 2: 38b - 39

The Promise is not Tongues; the Promise is the Person of the Holy Spirit

The Promise endows with Power for ministry, service, and witness

The Promise is for all nationalities and genders not just for the Prophets.


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Paul Receives the Holy Spirit (Acts 9:17)

In this passage of scripture, we find no mention of the gift of tongues. What we do find is

something like scales falling from his eyes. Some scholars believe the reason is that there

was no purpose for the gift at that time. We do know from other passages in Corinthians

that Paul did receive the gift of tongues, but when is not known. God chose to give the gift

of tongues to Paul, just not at his Holy Spirit baptism.

So Ananias departed and entered the house, and after laying his hands on him said,

"Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road by which you were coming,has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit."Acts 9:17

What we do know from Acts 19: 20 is that, immediately he began to proclaim Jesus in

the synagogues,saying, This man is the Son of God. Act 19:20. This is consistent with

what Jesus said would happen at the baptism in the Holy Spirit. Paul immediately began to

be a witness saying, This Man is the Son of God.

Scripture does notindicate that Paul spoke in tongues

Scripture does indicate that immediately he began to proclaim Jesus as Lord


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The Gentiles Receive the Holy Spirit

Note: For the moment, I will skip Acts 8:14-17 but will return to that after we discuss Acts

10 and 11. We will only discuss Chapter 10 in detail because Chapter 11 is not another

instance of tongues, but of a recap of the events of Chapter 10.

Peter is still thinking very Jewish in his attitude toward other races. We see this from the

following passages:

But Peter said, Certainly not, Lord, for I have never eaten anything defiled and

ritually unclean! Acts 10:14

He said to them, You know thatit is unlawful

for a Jew

to associate with or visit a

Gentile, yet God has shown me that I should call no person defiled or rituallyunclean. Acts 10:28

It wasnt until Acts 10:34 that Peter finally realizes that the Gospel was for all peoples.

Then Peter started speaking:I now truly understand that God does not show

favoritism in dealing with people, Acts 10:34

As Peter was speaking, the Holy Spirit fell and Cornelius, along with all that were there,

began to praise God in tongues just as they did in the beginning. This phrase is important

because it clarifies what the activity of the tongue was. Some could argue that there were

two things going on 1) speaking in tongues and 2) praising God. In the beginning, referring

to Acts 2, they were declaring the wonderful works of God. This is a major point in Peters

defense later in Chapter 11. Peter took six brothers of the circumcision with him to witness

this. They were astonished, not at the tongue, but at the realization that salvation has now

come to the Gentiles.

10:45 Thecircumcised believers

who had accompanied Peter were greatly

astonishedthat

the gift of the Holy Spirit

had been poured out

even on the Gentiles,

10:46 for they heard them speaking in tongues andpraising God. Then Peter said,

No one can withhold the water for these people to be baptized, who have received

the Holy Spirit just as we did,can he? Acts 10:45-47

11:18 When they heard this,they ceased their objections

and praised

God, saying,

So then, God has granted the repentancethat leads to life even to the Gentiles


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We can pick out some very important observations from this passage.

This was the turning point that caused Peter to finally realize that salvation isuniversal to all who call on the name of the Lord.

Those that did speak in tongues were understood to be praising God because if fell onthem as it did in the beginning.

Peter understood because of the tongues that had fallen on the Jews, that salvationhad also come to the Gentiles. This praise in tongues had as its first goal, to glorify

God, the secondary goal was to show the full scope of Gods redemptive plan.

The important fact of the matter is not tongues, but that salvation has come to theGentiles. This should excite us!


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PETER EXPLAINS WHAT ONLY PETER COULD

In Chapter 11, we see Peter making the case to the Jewish counsel in Jerusalem that salvation

is for all races. It is very clear from scripture that if any other person would have witnessed

these events other that a prominent Jew as Peter, the counsel would have taken issue with

them to the point of denying the salvation experience altogether; even if that person would

have been Paul. Notice the Holy Spirit makes a point to ensure the reader realizes that the

counsel that Peter was confronting was of the circumcision (Acts 11:2).

Notice the fact that the Gentiles had now accepted the gospel was totally over looked at first.

What they were more concerned with, at the beginning, was that they went to uncircumcised

men and shared a meal with them.(Acts 11:3)

Acts 11:1Now the apostles and the brothers who were throughout Judea heard thatthe Gentiles too had accepted

the Word of God.

11:2 So when Peter went up to

Jerusalem,

the circumcised believers

took issue with

him, 11:3saying, You went

touncircumcised men and shared a meal with

them. Acts 11: 1-3


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The Samaritans Receive the Holy Spirit

Now we will turn our attention to the Samaritans of Acts Chapter 8. Earlier in the chapter

we find Phillip performing signs, miracles and preaching. The result was that many were

being saved. Notice that Simon was amazed at the working of miracles and signs so much so

that he stayed close to Phillip constantly.

Acts 8:12But when they believed Philip as he was proclaiming the good news about

the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they began to be baptized,both

men and women. 8:13 Even Simon himself believed, and after he was baptized, hestayed close to

Philip constantly, and when he saw the signs and great miracles that

were occurring, he was amazed.

[Keep in mind, the events of Acts 8:12 happens prior to Peters attitude changing

experience in the Gentile home of Cornelius in Acts 10.]

When the Jerusalem counsel heard that salvation had come to the Samaritans, they sent Peter

and John. What they found was salvation had truly come to the Samaritans. We all know the

position the Samaritans held in the minds of the Jewish people. This was not a race of

people the Jews would openly accept into the family by any means.

14 Now when the apostles in Jerusalemheard that Samaria hadaccepted the word

of God, they sent

Peter and John to them. 15These two went down and prayed forthem so that they wouldreceive the Holy Spirit. 16 (For the Spirit

had not yet come

uponany of them, but they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)

17

Then Peter and John placed their hands on the Samaritans,

and they received the

Holy Spirit. Acts 8:14-17

Lets review this passage and see what the Bible says.

1. The counsel was inquisitive about the Samaritan believers so they sent witnesses.

2. When Peter and John prayed for them to receive the Holy Spirit, they did.

3. There is no mention of tongues.

4. It does state that something happened after words that cause Simon to pursue the powerto give the Holy Spirit but it does not say what it was.


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Many argue that the Samaritans did speak in tongues; the Bible just doesnt mention it. My

inclination is that the Bible doesnt mention tongues because tongues didnt happen but that

other gifts were given by the Holy Spirit.

1. My reasoning is as follows:

2. Peter was there at Samaria and

3. Peter was the one that went to Cornelius home in Acts 10.

4. He was also apart of the laying on of hands in Samaria and

5. He also was preaching in Corneliuss home.

6. He was witness to the Samaritans receiving the Holy Spirit, yet he was not swayed tobelieve that salvation was for all.

7. It wasnt until he was in the home of Cornelius and heard them speaking in tonguesas they did in the beginning, that he now believed.

I would argue that Peter would have believed the moment the Samaritans received the

Baptism of the Holy Spirit if they had spoken in tongues due to the fact that they were not

regularGentiles, but Samaritan Gentiles. The fact that Peterdidntbelieve until Acts 10 is a

strong indication that the Samaritans didntspeak in tongues upon receiving the Holy Spirit.

Not to mention the fact that the Bible doesnt say they did.

Could they have received the same gifts that Phillip exhibited causing Simon to stand in

amazement? YES Do we know for sure what those were? NO

I feel Simon was amazed at the miracles and signs that accompanied Phillip. He was so

astounded that he stayed close to Phillip apparently to watch and learn more about how those

miracles occurred. When Simon saw the people exhibiting the same miraculous acts when

Peter and John lay hands them, he wanted it. He concluded that in order to do the samemiracles and wonders that Phillip, John, and Peter did, he must have same ability that flowed

through the act of lying on of hands.


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Johns Disciples Are Granted Repentance that Lead to Life

In Acts 19: 1-7, we see Paul laying hands on those of Johns baptism and them receiving the

Holy Spirit, speaking in tongues, and prophesying. This is unique in that someone who used

to persecute the Christians is now seeing the same gifts and tongue that Peter and John

(prominent Jewish Christians) saw upon their laying on of hands on the Gentiles.

Remember Peter was the apostle to the Jews and Paul will be the apostle to the Gentiles.

Acts 19:1 WhileApollos was in Corinth,

Paul went through the inland

regions

and

came to EphesusHe

found some disciples there 2 and said to them, Did you receive

the Holy Spirit when you believed?They replied,

No, we have not even

heard that

there is a Holy Spirit. 3So Paulsaid, Into what then were you baptized? Into

Johns baptism, they replied.

4 Paul said, John baptized with a baptism of

repentance, telling the people to believe in the one who was to come after him, that

is, in Jesus. 5 When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the LordJesus, 6andwhen Paul place

his hands on them, theHoly Spirit came upon them,

andthey began to speakin tongues andto prophesy.

7(Now there were about twelve

men in all.) (Acts 19:1-7)

Some point to this as proof that tongues can be used to prophesy or how God can edify,

exhort, and comfort men. I would have to say that this is not what the passages say. If this

be the case, it is no longer consistent with the separation of the primary goal of the gifts.

This interpretation also puts tongues at odds with its primary goal of praise, prayer,

adoration, or a communication to God.

Note that in Acts 10 the passages reads, 10:46 for they heard them speaking in tongues

and praising God. Some say there are two things going on here: 1) speaking in tongues

and the other 2) praising God. This is not the case because later in Chapter 11 Peter says that

the Holy Spirit fell on them as it did on them in the beginning. If this were the case [and

it is], then it would be them declaring the wonderful works of God. Therefore, the

tongue was a communication to Godfrom man.


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However, in Acts 19: 1-7 we see that the Holy Spirit came upon them AND they began to

speak in tonguesAND TO prophecy. There ARE three different things going on otherwise

the passage would have read something like, [ Holy Spirit came upon them, and they began

to speak prophecies in tongues].

In Acts 19:1, we see that the disciples of John were 1) Baptized in the Holy Spirit, 2) Spoke

in tongues of which we are not told what they were speaking and 3) they also prophesied.

and they began to speak

in tongues and to prophesy. They are connected by a

conjunction and meaning also. It is a building effect. Paul says that to prophecy is

better that speaking in tongues. Here we see a progression after the baptism of power by

Holy Spirit; speaking in tongues (praising God) and the better; prophecy.

Summary of the Holy Spirit Baptism Passages in Acts and Luke:

Luke 3:22 Tongues did not accompany Jesus Baptism in the Holy Spirit

Acts 2:11 Tongues accompanied Baptism in the Holy Spirit declaration to God& Sign to the Jews

Acts 8: 14-17 Tongues did not accompany Baptism in the Holy Spirit

Acts 9:17 Tongues did not accompany Baptism in the Holy Spirit

Acts 10:46- Tongues did accompany Baptism in the Holy Spirit declaration to God& Sign to the Jews

Acts 19:1- Tongues did accompany Baptism in the Holy Spirit unknown Speech& Fulfillment of Jesus Baptism with fire.


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Here we have 50% of the time tongues did happen at the same time, and 50% of the time it

didnt. Observations that occur only fifty percent of the time simply do not prove a universal

generalization. Even the Assemblies' of God position paper must admit that speaking in

tongues is not mentioned in the accounts of the Samaritans receiving the Holy Spirit in Acts

8, and the account of Paul receiving the Spirit in Acts 9:17. Although attempts are made to

evade the issue by saying that "details are not given" in these accounts and arguing that

"circumstances seem to indicate" tongues were present, the truth is that the Bible does not

say tongues occurred. They fail to even acknowledge Jesus baptism and the fact that two

separate events happened in Acts 19. What is NOT printed in scripture can be just as

important as what IS printed.

I believe that the point is clear. Some say we should assume the gift of tongues is there even

though the Bible doesnt say they were. I say that if the Bible says it didnt happen then we

cannot assume it did. I believe the latter is on more solid ground.

The Baptism of the Holy Spirit isnt about speaking in tongues or not speaking in tongues. It

is about being empowered to love people enough to boldly proclaim the Word of God, to be a

true witness to a dying world, and to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind and loving

our neighbor as ourselves. It is about power for ministry; it is about dedication to service toour Lord and being a vessel of honor used to bring a true testimony of Jesus to the world, as

we go; We Are To Be MARTYRS.

I will say this again. My views are my views. This is not a point of division. If some do not

believe the argument that I am putting forth, then that is their right. I must stress that

doctrine cannot be founded on emotion, our interpretation of an event, or an experience. If

that experience does not match up with the Word of God, then dont doubt the experience,

but doubt YOUR interpretation of the experience. Be a Berean and search yourself without

any denominational prejudices and see what you find. Call me a liar, but let the Word be true.


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Baptism of the Holy Spirit is evidenced by power for ministry and

is recognized over the life of the believer and not a one time event.

Baptism means to be fully permeated in something as with a cloth in dye. If we are fully

emerged in the Holy Spirit then we should take on the attributes of the Holy Spirit. The main

attribute of the Holy Spirit is to testify of Jesus Christ. In the life of the believer, He

produces fruit:

Gal. 5:22-23 says, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness,

goodness, faithfulness,23gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law."

We are called to be fruit inspectors not tongue inspectors. The true evidences of the life of a

believer living under the anointing of the Holy Spirit are as follows:

Their devotion to Jesus is more important than their dedication to the world.

Their humility was more important than their prominence.

Their bond was more important than their belongings.

Their love for one another is more important than their love for themselves.

Unity in love and devotion to one another is more important than individual achievement.

To say that the overwhelming, undeniable, constant, initial characteristic of a Holy Spirit

Baptized believer is first tongues is both superficial and premature. I see that scripture tells

us that the Characteristic of the Christian life both in the Old Testament and in the New

Testament is one of FAITH. Some say the initial evidence or proof of the Baptism of Holy

Spirit is a tongue, and this one exception is a characteristic of God? This can not be

scripturally supported and therefore should be rejected.


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Some say that it is a response to the overwhelming presence at the Baptism of the Holy

Spirit. That sound good, but that statement is totally grounded in assumption not scripture.

We are talking about a life that already has the Holy Spirit present and living inside of it.

Why doesnt this happen when the Holy Spirit first regenerates a dead and lifeless soul? The

later would seem to be the more drastic.

I receive salvation by faith,

I receive forgiveness by faith,

My hope is grounded in faith,

We are called to walk by faith,

It is by faith that we live,

It is by faith that we move,

It is by faith that we have our being,

Yet in all this, God gives asign that we have been baptized in the Holy Spirit by an unknown

tongue? This doesnt make sense on a scriptural level nor does it make sense on a logical

level. God calls us to walk by faith in the power of the Holy Spirit. If we ask for power of

the Holy Spirit to come upon our life with the right heart and motive, then we must have faith

that God has given us that power. The gift of tongues is not a gift we receive by DEFALT.

It is a gift given by God to who He chooses.

1. We can walk by faith that when our time comes to be a witness for Christ, that God willbe faithful to give us the words to say.

2. We can rest assured, by faith, that when we are called upon to live holy when thetemptation is great, God will give us that power.

3. We can rest assured, by faith that when overwhelming trials come, God will give uspower to overcome by His Spirit upon us.


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We receive and walk in the power of the Baptism of the Holy Spirit not because we speak in

tongues but because we trust God that when we are called upon to be a witness, we will have

the power to do so in a manner that is pleasing to God and is powerful in Spirit. If someone

speaks in tongues and does not manifest the results listed in Ephesians 5:19; 6:9 or has the

fruit listed in Galatians, I would be hard pressed to say the proof is in the tongue. They are a

sounding cymbal and clanging brass to use Pauls expression.

Our error may be that we have not created a separation between God giving spiritual gifts as

HE chooses andGod pouring His Spirit upon us for ministry. These are two separate events.

Can they happen at the same time? YES. Does it HAVE to happen at the same time? NO.

Is their one gift that God gives each time He Baptizes someone in the Holy Spirit? NO.

We will touch more on this later, but even though there is one gift of tongues it can have

many activities. Notice that in every case the gift of tongues is specifically mentioned as

being praise or declaration to God, its first purpose is glorifying God, a residual purpose was

a sign to the JEWISH BELIEVERS that salvation and repentance has come to the Gentile.

[Act 2 & 10] However, in Acts 19, we read,

when Paul placehis hands on them, the Holy Spirit came

upon them, and they began to

speakin tongues and to prophesy.

Paul placed his hand on the 12 people in the room and they did 2 things.

1) They spoke in tongues and

2) They prophesied.

That is the clear reading of the scripture. Do we know that they allspoke in tongues? NO

Do we know if they allprophesied? NO. I believe the meaning of the text is that some

spoke in tongues and some prophesied. Do we know what they were saying in tongues?

Not really. We can see that in every place in scripture where tongues are defined, they wereeitherdeclaring the wonderful works of Godorpraising God. In 1 Corinthians 14:2, it says

that those who speak in tongues speak not to man but to God. Paul goes on to say that he

will sing, pray, and bless God in the Spirit. These verses give clear indication that those in

Acts 19 were communicating to God their praises and prayers.


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There are many gifts, but the Spirit is the source of it all. These gifts have different

ministries and activities but it is God who works in them and through them for His glory not

ours.

There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries,

but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God whoworks all in all. 1Cor. 12:4-6

Ministries probably have in mind the different offices in the church, such as apostles,

prophets, evangelists, and pastor-teachers, as Paul also described in Ephesians 4. Pauls

point is clear: though there are different offices, it is the same Lord granting the offices and

directing the service.

The Greek word for activities is energemata, where we get our words energy, energetic, and

energize from. It is a word of active, miraculous power. Activities is the same word as

working in verse ten of this chapter (the working of miracles). Differences of activities

means that God displays and pours out His miraculous power in different ways, but it is

always the same God doing the work.

Some gifts are ministries standing offices or positions in the church. Some gifts are

activities miraculous events or outpourings at a particular time and place. The Holy Spirit

is always present in and among Christians. Jesus said of the Holy Spirit,He may abide with

you forever (John 14:16). Some times the Spirits presence is more apparent than other

times. There are times when He may choose to manifestHimself, that is, to make Himself

apparent. We should never think the Holy Spirit is more present when He is manifested

through the gifts. The Holy Spirit is always present with believers, but at times He is more

apparent through the manifestation of the Spirit. This manifestation doesnt have to happen

at church. If the only time a believer manifest the gifts is at church, I would question the

motive.


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But the manifestation of the Spirit isgivento each one for theprofit of all:

1. for to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit,2. to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit,3. to another faith by the same Spirit,4.

to another gifts of healings by the same Spirit,5. to another the working of miracles,

6. to another prophecy,7. to another discerning of spirits,8. to another different kinds of tongues,9. to another the interpretation of tongues.

But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each oneindividually asHe wills.I Cor. 12: 7-11

Notice the last part of this section of scripture. There is one Spirit that distributes to each one

individually as He wills. There is nothing anyone can do to earn a gift. There is nothing

that we can do to force a gift. A gift from God cannot be taught, a gift cannot be learned; it is

given freely by God to whomHe chooses for us to exercise in faith according toHis calland

His purpose in us.

The one trying to learn it, force it, or earn it, will experience no power, and will have no

lasting fruit. The one who embraces the gift that God has intended for them will step out in

faith and the result will power in their ministry.


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Lets take a look at the gifts that Paul outlines here.

The Word of Knowledge:

This is the unique ability to declare knowledge which could only be revealed supernaturally,as shown in Jesus (Matthew 17:24-27) or Paul (Acts 27:10, 23-26). We must understand the

difference between the word of wisdom and the word of knowledge. Someone may have

great knowledge, even supernatural knowledge, yet have no wisdom from God in the

application of that knowledge.

As well, we must always use discernment in the receiving of a word of knowledge,

remembering that God is not the only source of supernatural knowledge - even if a word is

true, it does not mean that it is from God and that the one speaking the word is truly

representing God.

The Gift of Faith:

Though faith is an essential part of every Christians life, thegiftof faith is the unique ability

to trust God against all circumstances, as Peter did when he walked out of the boat on onto

the water (Matthew 14:22-33).

Gifts of Healing:

This is Gods healing power, eithergiven orreceived, and has been repeatedly documented in

the New Testament and since. A great time for the gift of healing to come would be during

communion when we focus more intensely on the body and blood of Jesus that was given to

take away our sin.


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If God wants to give a prophecy through someone, why does God need to validate it through

a tongue? The answer is: He would not and does not. God allows those who hear the

prophecy tojudge it for accuracy according to the Word of God and relevance to what God is

doing at that time. If God is the one validating the prophecy by the tongue, then there is no

reason to judge for who are we to judge what God validates.

A scenario would be like someone standing up, gaining the attention of the entire body and

speaks in tongues. What is normally given as the interpretation is really a work ofProphecy

and not the interpretation of the tongue. A normal interpretation sounds something like this

[Note: Most of the time its in King James English],

Thus saith the Lord, return to me and I will give thee life and life everlasting. For you haveturned your back on me and I am waiting for my people to return to me.

Notice the conversation direction. It is God TO man. As we will see later in vs. 14 of

Chapter 14:

For he who speaks in a tonguedoes not speak to men but to God. 1Cor. 14:2.

Am I saying that this was not a valid tongue: NO. Am I saying that this is not a valid

Prophecy for the church? NO What I am saying is that there was no interpretation of the

tongue. If I stand up in a congregational setting and ask God for direction in a situation in

tongues and the interpretation is a prophetic answer, then how are any to judge if that is

correct? WE DONT KNOW THE QUESTION.

Nowhere in scripture can one find Biblical grounds that the gift of tongues and praying

privately in tongues is any different that the gift of tongues in Acts or when Paul mentions

the Gift of tongues or speaking in tongues. In each case, we see the gift of tongues. Paul

does not make any distinction at all. In the scenario above, the gift of tongues is exercised

and the gift of prophecy is exercised, however, there was NO interpretation of the tongue.

We will delve into this more later.


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Another important aspect of prophecy is itspurpose. Many words spoken in church services

today are those of condemnation, rebuke, and judgment. According to Paul, this would not

be a prophetic message. More than likely, the words give to the speaker are meant for the

speaker alone and should not have been shared. This is where the prophecy should be

JUDGED not interpreted. There is no such thing as a gift of interpretation of prophecy.

Discerning of Spirits:

How we need the gift of discernment in the church today! The ability to tell the difference

between true and false doctrine and between what is of the Holy Spirit and what isnt (Acts

8:18-23; 16:16-18). This is a gift that is in dire need in the church today.

Satan appears as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14).

He deceives with a false, tempting message (Genesis 2:16-3:5). There can be lying spirits in the mouths of prophets (1 Kings 22:21-23; 2 Chronicles

18:20-22).

Satan can speak right after God speaks (Matthew 16:23).

Sometimes people who seem to say the right things are really from the devil (Acts13:6-12; 16:16-18).

It is important to test the word of anyone who claims to speak from God (1 John 4:1-3).

Satan can work deceiving miracles (2 Thessalonians 2:9-10, Revelation 13:11-14).

The devil will try to infiltrate the church with false teachers (Jude 4, 2 Peter 2:1-2).And we sleep and say AMEN.

The Gift of Tongues

This is a personal language of prayer given by God to whom He chooses, whereby the

believer can communicate with God beyond the limits of knowledge and understanding (1

Corinthians 14:14-15). Language is an agreement between parties, where it is agreed that

certain sounds represent certain objects or ideas. When using the gift of tongues, we agree

with God that as the Holy Spirit prays through us, though we may not understand what we

are praying, God does.


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The Biblical aspects of tongues that is put forth in this paper is that:

1. Tongues have an important place in the devotional life of the believer whom Godgives the gift to, but a small place in the corporate life of the church (1 Corinthians

14:18-19), especially in public meetings (1 Corinthians 14:23).

2. When tongues are practiced in the corporate life of the church, it is to be carefullycontrolled, and never without an interpretation given by the Holy Spirit (1

Corinthians 14:27-28).

3. The ability to pray in an unknown tongue is not a gift given to every believer (1Corinthians 12:20).

4. The ability to pray in a tongue is notthe evidence of the filling of the Holy Spirit; this

emphasis has led people to seek the gift of tongues (and to counterfeit it) merely toprove to themselves and others that they really are filled with the Holy Spirit.

We will spend more time on this gift in Chapter 14, but for now, realize that even though we

are focusing particularly on a few gifts, Paul does not identify any gift over another except

the gift of prophecy. This is simply because the gift of prophecy is to edify, exhort, and

comfort men.

The Gift of the Interpretation of Tongues:

This gift allows the gift of tongues to be of benefit to those other than the speaker. As they

are able to hear and agree with the tongue-speakers words to God, they too are edified. The

gift of interpretation is necessary because the conversation of tongues is directed TO God

FROM man. If there is no interpreter or God has not given the speaker the interpretation,

then the speaker should keep silent.

This is another area that people seem to go astray. Some say that they go into a trance and

cannot control the tongue. There absolutely no Biblical basis for this at all. I say that is

false and unbiblical. If Paul says that only 2 or 3 at the most should speak in tongues and if

there is no interpretation they should speak to themselves and to God, then there is a level of

control exercised by the speaker.


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All believers do not have the gift of tongues.

Later, Paul elaborates on the exclusivity of God in the distribution of gifts.

Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually. And God has appointed

these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after thatmiracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues. Are allapostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? Do all

have gifts of healings? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? But earnestly

desire the best gifts. And yet I show you a more excellent way. 1 Cor 12:27-31

Notice here that we are all apart of the body. Christ makes sure that every person has a gift

but not everyone has all the gifts. Another point to make is that there are offices that God

appoints apostles, prophets, and teachers. This list is expanded in Ephesians by the addition

of evangelists and pastors to teachers. After this there are the gifts of:

Miracles, healing, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues. The gift of tongues here

by the way, is the same gift of tongues just as it is the same gift of healings, and miracles.

There are many varieties of tongues as there are people with the gift. The gift of tongues

may have different activities, but these activities happen within a stated parameter.

The point is well taken. Not all have the gift of miracles, not all have the gift of healings, not

all have the gift of tongues, not all are apostles, not all are evangelists; but, we are ONE body

working together for the edification of each other toward the glory of God.


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The more excellent way is the famous love chapter; 1 Corinthians 13. Here Paul says that,

1 Corinthians 13

"If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but do not have love, I have become

a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 And if I have the gift of prophecy, and know allmysteries and all knowledge; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but

do not have love, I am nothing... 1 Cor13: 1-2

Love is the key. The gift is the container, but what should pour from any and all gifts is

love. Without that, the gift is meaningless and harmful. We, as Christians are nothing

without love. We are an inconsistent witness to Christ. The inference that one can speak

with the tongues of men and angels and have not love is a direct rebuttal to tongues being

evidence of any Holy Spirit baptism power in the life of the believer.

Paul is disqualifying ANY gift being what we should seek after if our motive for

attaining that gift is not to be a vessel that we can store up and pour out love. Without

love the vessel of the gift is useless and meaningless and we are NOTHING.

The first verse of chapter 14 says it all: Pursue love, and desire spiritual gifts, but especially

that you may prophesy.! Cor. 14:1

However, many charismatic churches of today have it backwards; we pursue the gifts and

desire love. God wants us to go after love with everything that is in us for God is LOVE.

Along the way, we should desire the gifts to help us attain the goal of our pursuit.

All throughout scripture, we see the Holy Spirit testifying of Jesus Christ. We find shadows

in the Old Testament of Holy Spirit being portrayed as the Un-named Servant. It was an un-

named servant who sought out the Gentile Bride for Isaac. In Boaz and Ruth, we find Boaz

is introduced to Ruth by a servant whose name is hidden. When we enter the New

Testament, the Holy Spirit testifies to truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, reveals the nature

and person of Jesus Christ, and comes at the command of Jesus Christ. Everything the Holy

Spirit does magnify Jesus and so should all the gifts He gives.


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1 Corinthians 14

Those that speak in tongues speak not to man but to God.

Paul spoke earlier of prophecy and tongues only in the context of other gifts. With the gift of

tongues, the speaker is addressing God, not men. Disregard of this verse leads to one of the

most significant misunderstandings regarding the gift of tongues, believing tongues is a

supernatural way to communicate man to man instead of man to God.

However, if we miss the fact that Those that speak in tongues speak not to man but to

God. our views of scripture are distorted and can lead to damaging conclusions.

1. If we misunderstand this, we misunderstand Acts 2 and think the disciples werepreaching to the crowd in tongues on the day of Pentecost. Instead, they werespeaking to God when the multi-national crowd overheard their praises to God. Acts2:11 says, we hear them speaking in our own tongues the wonderful works of God.

Later, Acts 10:46 describes the hearing of the gift of tongues: they heard them speak

with tongues and magnify God.

2. If we misunderstand this, we misunderstand what is really happening when someoneattempts to interpret a tongue and addresses his or her message to men. A true

interpretation of the gift of tongues will be addressed to God, not men. It will be aprayer, praise, or some other communication to God.

3. If we misunderstand this, we can be led to believe the gift of tongues is just the abilityto speak another language, and all Paul is speaking about here is interpreting the

preachers sermon in someones native tongue. But no one needs to interpret the

preachers sermon to God!

4. If we misunderstand this, we can misuse the gift of tongues, using it in a way thatdraws unnecessary attention to ourselves. God does not primarily give anyone the

gift of tongues for the direct sake of others (though indirectly others are edified), butfor that believer and God alone.

For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understandshim; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries. But he who prophesies speaks

edification and exhortation and comfort to men.1 Cor. 14:2-3

NOTE: Do not let this contrast go unnoticed. A tongue is men speaking TO God.

Prophecy is God speaking TO men.


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Paul recognized that normally, when someone spoke in tongues, no one else could

understand him. The reason is simple: with the gift of tongues, the intention is to speak to

God and not man. Therefore, it is fine if no one understands him.

The exception is when the tongue is publicly interpreted in a corporate setting. Even then, it

is not the tongue itself that is understood, but the interpretation of the tongue.

In the spirit he speaks mysteries: When the tongues speaker can not be understood, it does

not mean it isnt really language, or that they are merely speaking gibberish. It means they

are speaking in the spirit and that they speak mysteries. Does in the spirit refer to the

speakers spirit, or to theHoly Spirit? It could be either one, because both are true.

In contrast to the gift of tongues, the gift of prophecy is directed to men. It is God speaking

supernaturally (often naturally supernaturally) throughpeople to people.

As we pointed out earlier, not only is the gift of prophecy directed towards men, it is also

largelypositive in its character. Often, when a negative word is spoken, it is not truly a

word from God at all, or it is a word meant only for the individual, not for someone else.

Prophecy Edifies: Edification is building up. It is a construction term, and speaksour being built up in the Lord. A word of prophecy will build someone up, not tear

him or her down.

Prophecy Exhorts: Exhortation is encouragement. It is like the speech from thecoach in the locker room, rallying the team to go out and perform as they have been

trained to perform. A word of prophecy will encourage someone, not discourage himor her.

Prophecy Comforts Men: Comfort has the idea of not only consoling, but also

strengthening. It doesnt just cry with someone hurting, it puts its arms around themand strengthens them to carry the load. A word of prophecy will strengthen, not

weaken someone.


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One of the most drastic differences in Prophecy and tongues is contrasted in whom they

edify.

He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies thechurch. I wish you all spoke with tongues, but even more that you prophesied; for he

who prophesies is greater than he who speaks with tongues, unless indeed heinterprets, that the church may receive edification.

NOTE:Note the contrast: The gift of tongues has the edification of the saint as its primary

goal. Prophecy has the edification of the church as its primary goal.

Paul is simply stating the nature of the gift of tongues. Since he who speaks in a tongue

does not speak to men but to God, it follows that it is a gift whose initial activity is for self-

edification, not church edification. However, when tongues is exercised in a public setting,the interpretation should be man to God and the praise, song, or declaration of the wonderful

works of God will be such that the entire congregation is edified.

He who prophesies edifies the church: Because prophecy can be understood by all, a true

word of prophecy builds up everyone. There is no gift of Prophetic interpretation because

there is no need for interpretation. It is God speaking to man through man.

Paul was positive about the gift of tongues! Because of the tone of this chapter, it is easy to

think he was down on the gift of tongues. Not at all; Paul valued the gift of tongues in his

own life (I thank my God I speak with tongues more than you all, 1 Corinthians 14:18), and

wanted other Christians to speak with tongues.

Why did Paul wish they all spoke with tongues? He knew the value of it in his own life.

Paul was able, when in the spirit he speaks mysteries, to lay his soul before God in a way

going beyond human language and intellect. He could pray, praise, and intercede beyond his

ability to understand and articulate. Paul wanted every Christian to know this same blessing!

But at the same time, understood that all would not have that gift, BUT would work in other

gifts that were just as needed.


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But even more that you prophesied: As good as the gift of tongues is, Paul sees the gift of

prophecy as better for the church as a whole because He who speaks in a tongue edifies

himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church. And the focus here is clearly, that the

church may receive edification. Pauls context in 1 Corinthians 14 is more focused on what

the Corinthian Christians do when they come together as a church, than on what they do in

their own devotional life.

There are things that are fine for a Christian to do in their own devotional life, which may be

disruptive, annoying, or self-exalting for a Christian to do in a church meeting. The gift of

tongues is one of those things. So, since Paul is focusing on when the Corinthian Christian

comes together as a church, it is clear why he regards the gift of prophecy as greater.

I truly believe that if someone were to ask Paul, Which is greater for ones devotional life:

the gift of tongues or the gift of prophecy? He would no doubt say the gift of tongues,

because who do you prophecy to when you are alone with the Lord in your prayer closet?

But, just because Paul wishes they all spoke in tongues doesnt mean all can as we have

clearly solidified by Scripture. Paul also wished that he could be sent to hell if it would save

his brethren.


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There is no such thing as a message FROM God TO a

congregation via an Unknown Tongue.

In verse 6, Paul spoke for the profit of all. It would do them no good for Paul to come

speaking in tongues. INSTEAD he came speaking via revelation, knowledge, prophecy, and

teaching. Paul is describing methods of communication that can be edifying to the entire

body corporately.

But now, brethren, if I come to you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit youunless I speak to you either by revelation, by knowledge, by prophesying, or by

teaching? 1Cor. 14:6

Even though Paul has stated all this, he says this to the Corinthians.

Even so you, since you are zealous for spiritual gifts, let it be for the edification of the

church that you seek to excel. Therefore let him who speaks in a tongue pray that he

may interpret. For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding isunfruitful.1 Cor.14:12-14.

He says let the gifts be for the edification of the body in a corporate setting. The speaker in

tongues should pray that he interpret as well so that the entire body can be lifted up as he

himself is edified. Again Paul is emphasizing that the gift of tongues is prayer to God from

man. It should also be noted that they were zealous for the gifts. God will not give anyone

anything they do not earnestly desire for the right reason.


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Paul then gives us a clear understanding of when to and when not use the gift of tongues:

What is the conclusion then? I willpray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the

understanding.I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding.

Otherwise, if you bless with the spirit, how will he who occupies the place of theuninformed say Amen at your giving of thanks, since he does not understand what

you say? For you indeedgive thanks well, but the other is not edified. I thank myGod I speak with tongues more than you all; yet in the church I would rather speak

five words with my understanding, that I may teach others also, than ten thousandwords in a tongue. I Cor. 14:15-19.

#1: Tongues is for praying, singing, blessing God from the heart.

#2: Tongues gives thanks TO God.

#3: Theprimarypurpose of tongues is NOT the edification of others.

#4: IN THE CHURCH

a. What could be the five words: CHRIST DIED AND ROSE AGAIN.

#5: Tongues does NOT teach therefore it is not: revelation, knowledge, prophecy, or

teaching. It is a prayer, a song, or a blessing given BY MAN TO GOD.

But now, brethren, if I come to you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you

unless I speak to you either by revelation, by knowledge, by prophesying, or by

teaching? 1Cor. 14:6

Paul gladly proclaims: I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding.

Paul would not pray with understanding if he didnt think it wasjust as effective as praying in

tongues. Always remember- God knows the heart whether we speak in tongues or a known

language.

I will sing with the spirit, I will also sing with the understanding. Paul will use the gift of

tongues, both in prayer and in song, and he will use it often though not exclusively. Yet in

the church he, and I, would rather speak five words with my understanding . . . than ten

thousand words in a tongue. Therefore, Pauls use of tongues was pretty much focused in his

devotional life with the Lord and not in a congregational setting.


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This also points to the fact that the private devotional tongue is the same as that used in a

congregational setting. The gift of tongues in Acts was used to declare and praise TO God

just as this is. There is ONE gift of tongues not two.

Paul here makes reference to how we can sing in the spirit. God can give us the freedom to

exercise the gift of tongues in a melodic way, so it flows in with worship. However, based

on the principles in this chapter, if this is done, it should never be done in a way that would

draw attention to itself or distract others. Church is not a bless me club. We come to

church to lift up Christ and serve.

If no one understands my blessing of the Lord, if no one understands my thanks to God, they

cant say Amen with me. When I am gathered together with other believers, I cant just do

my own thing and say, Well, it blesses me. I must have a concern for others also. Paul is

completely consistent in his emphasis on tongues being directed to God.

Just in these verses, he points out what we do with the gift of tongues: we pray, we sing, we

bless, and we give thanks. All of these we do unto the Lord, not unto man with the gift of

tongues. This is consistent with every single time tongues are mentioned in scripture.

So, Paul saw great value in the gift of tongues for his own devotional life before the Lord: I

thank my God I speak with tongues more than you all. Yet, when he gathered with other

Christians, his concern was to be a blessing, not with getting a blessing.


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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. If therefore

the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and therecome in [those that are] unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad?1 Cor.

14:22-23

Next, a sign does not necessarily have to be a good thing. Paul draws from a passage in

Isaiah concerning Israels refusal to hear the words of the prophets (Isa. 28:9-12). There can

be signs of coming destruction and desolation; there are signs of the times that indicate that

our time is short. In the passage below, I feel that tongues are being portrayed as a sign in a

negative sense of the word to those Jews that refused to believe Peters message at Pentecost.

This would be a sign of condemnation to hardened Jewish believer that comes into the

church and hears the same thing that they rejected at Pentecost. Isnt this what happened in

Acts 2? The gift was being exercised in a place where the public could overhear and the

crowd was confused and thought they were all drinking. Peter had to get up and set things to

their proper perspective in the common language of Koine Greek, yet there were those that

denied the preaching and continued to believe the disciples were nuts.

Prophecy is a sign to the believerwhich edifies, exhorts, and comforts the body. As the

unbeliever enters a room in which the body is being edified, comforted, and exhorted, they

will be moved to want what they have and believe even if they are idits. This is the

Greek word used here for unlearned. This would indicate someone without any skills or

learning at all. The Scythians would be an example of these who would occupy the realm of

the unlearned.

But if all prophesy, and there come in one that believeth not, or [one] unlearned, heis convinced of all, he is judged of all: And thus are the secrets of his heart made

manifest; and so falling down on [his] face he will worship God, and report that Godis in you of a truth. 1 Cor. 14: 24-25

When a church is engaged in edification of the body, exhortation of the body, and comfort of

the body IN A KNOWN LANGUAGE, then those that come into the church comes under

conviction of sin as the church is exhorting each other to repent and turn from sin. The heart


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of the unlearned is condemned by the very Gospel the body of Christ is building one another

up by. As conviction and faith comes to the unbeliever, confession is made with the mouth;

repentance is made in the heart and the unlearned falls on his face and worships the God who

saved him.

IN SUMMARY

I want to say that this in no way should be construed as blasting any denomination or any

body. This was an attempt to restate my views concisely as possible and in a more organized

fashion. I want nothing less than all our members to operate in the gifts that God gives in

proper fashion. I wish that none would try to operate in a gift that God has not given them.

To do this is detrimental to the person and the body as a whole. It is a source of division and

pride. Clear teaching of scripture and sound doctrine leads to a healthy body that can

withstand the trials and face any opportunity with Holy Spirit endowed power. It leads to

God pleasing praise and worship. That is what I want for the body here at THE ROCK.

I will say this again, and I mean it with all my heart. I will gladly review my position if

someone can take the scriptures that I given and show me where I was wrong in its

interpretation. Until then, I can do nothing but teach what I feel is the clear extrapolation of

the whole council of God. If my views are correct, then we should not be afraid what men

will think, or even if we were wrong in past thinking. My pride is nothing compared to the

truth of scripture. This Word has consumed me and I am glad of it.

In Love,

Bobby Long

Examples:


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Prayer in tongues

No need to interpret.

No one else around

Comm. To God

Pray to God

Sing to God

Bless God

Give thanks to God

T

O

N

G

U

E

S

Tongues In

Private

T

O

N

G

U

E

S

Pray to God

Sing to God

Bless God

Give thanks to GodInterpretation

Understandable

Pray to God

Sing to God

Bless God

Give thanks to God

Interpretation to

Congregation In English

Interpretation to


or

or

Prayer

is

Edified

Congregation

isEdified

Tongues In

Corporate Setting

Pray to God

Sing to God

Bless God

Give thanks to God

Prayer in tongues

No need to interpret.

No one else around

Comm. To God

Pray to God

Sing to God

Bless God

Give thanks to God

T

O

N

G

U

E

S

Tongues In

Private

T

O

N

G

U

E

S

Pray to God

Sing to God

Bless God

Give thanks to GodInterpretation

Understandable

Pray to God

Sing to God

Bless God

Give thanks to God

Interpretation to


Interpretation to


or

or

Prayer

is

Edified

Congregation

isEdified

Tongues In

Corporate Setting

Pray to God

Sing to God

Bless God

Give thanks to God


40/42

40

P

R

O

P

H

E

C

Y

From

God

To

Man

In

Private

P

R

O

P

H

E

C

Y

From

God

To

Man

In

Congregational

Setting

Discernment

Is if for Congregation

or Not?

Sharing of Prophecy

In English

Edify

Comforts

Exhorts

EdifyComforts

Exhorts

Edify

Comforts

Exhorts

EdifyComforts

Exhorts

YES

NO

P

R

O

P

H

E

C

Y

From

God

To

Man

In

Private

P

R

O

P

H

E

C

Y

From

God

To

Man

In

Congregational

Setting

Discernment

Is if for Congregation

or Not?

Sharing of Prophecy

In English

Edify

Comforts

Exhorts

EdifyComforts

Exhorts

Edify

Comforts

Exhorts

EdifyComforts

Exhorts

YES

NO


41/42

41

TO

NGU

ES

Pray to GodSing to God

Bless God

Give thanksTo God

What is given

as the

interpretation

is a

Message

or Word

From God

To Man

No InterpretationINTER

PR

E

TA

TI

ON

Pray to God

Sing to GodBless God

Give thanksTo God

No Biblical

Foundation

There is no Biblical foundation

for this. In this example, the

tongue was given, but what wentto the congregation was

message from God to man

which is not the interpretation of

the tongue.

Otherwise it would be the

declaration of praise, song,

thanksgiving, or prayer TO God.

Obedience not only occurs when

someone is given the tongue in

a corporate setting, but there

must be obedience on the part

of the one that is to interpret the

tongue as well.

If this is said to be a response to

a question asked of God, then

how are those around to Judge ifthey do not know the question?..

TR

UE

or

TO

NGU

ES


Bless God

Give thanksTo God

What is given

as the

interpretation

is a

Message

or Word

From God

To Man

No InterpretationINTER

PR

E

TA

TI

ON

Pray to God

Sing to GodBless God

Give thanksTo God

No Biblical

Foundation

There is no Biblical foundation

for this. In this example, the

tongue was given, but what wentto the congregation was

message from God to man

which is not the interpretation of

the tongue.

Otherwise it would be the

declaration of praise, song,

thanksgiving, or prayer TO God.

Obedience not only occurs when

someone is given the tongue in

a corporate setting, but there

must be obedience on the part

of the one that is to interpret the

tongue as well.

If this is said to be a response to

a question asked of God, then

how are those around to Judge ifthey do not know the question?..

TR

UE

or

UNBIBLICAL EXAMPLE:


42/42


Bless God

Give thanksTo God

Pray to GodSing to GodBless God

Give thanks

To God

Biblically

Solid

or

Tongu

es

inte

rpretati

on

Interpretation

To congregation

WordofProphecy

Prophecy

To congregation

Edification

Comfort

Exhortation

EdificationComfort

Exhortation

Body isEdified

Words of:Knowledge

WisdomRevelation

Teaching

SongEct..

To congregation


Bless God

Give thanksTo God

Pray to GodSing to GodBless God

Give thanks

To God

Biblically

Solid

or

Tongu

es

inte

rpretati

on

Interpretation

To congregation

WordofProphecy

Prophecy

To congregation

Edification

Comfort

Exhortation

EdificationComfort

Exhortation

Body isEdified

Words of:Knowledge

WisdomRevelation

Teaching

SongEct..

To congregation

The Baptism & Gifts of Holy Spirit

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Transcript of The Baptism & Gifts of Holy Spirit