Introduction: A Controversial but Crucial Topic
Few subjects divide the modern Church as much as speaking
in tongues. Is it a sign of spiritual maturity? A requirement for Spirit
baptism? Or just one of many gifts, not meant for everyone?
With voices from different denominations saying different
things, many Christians are left confused, guilty, or skeptical.
This article aims to examine this question
biblically, theologically, and practically, answering:
“Must every Christian speak in tongues?”
Understanding
Speaking in Tongues
Speaking in tongues is the supernatural ability to
speak in a language unknown to the speaker, often through the inspiration of
the Holy Spirit.
It appears in:
- Acts 2: At Pentecost
- Acts 10: Cornelius' household
- 1 Corinthians 14: Paul’s detailed instructions
- Mark 16:17: Listed as one of the signs accompanying
believers
There are generally two categories of
tongues:
- Private devotional tongues (prayer language)
- Public tongues (message to be interpreted)
Understanding the distinction is vital to answering this
debate.
What the Bible Says:
Key Scriptures Explored
Acts 2:4 – “They
were all filled... and spoke in tongues”
This verse is often cited to argue that every
Spirit-filled believer should speak in tongues. Indeed, all 120
disciples did.
But does that set a universal precedent?
1 Corinthians 12:30
– “Do all speak in tongues?”
Paul’s rhetorical question suggests not everyone
does. But here, Paul is likely referring to public tongues
with interpretation, a gift not all receive.
1 Corinthians 14:2 –
“Anyone who speaks in a tongue does not speak to people but to God.”
Here, Paul points to the personal, devotional use of
tongues, which seems available to all believers for private edification.
Many theologians agree that the gift of tongues
(for public ministry) and prayer tongues (for private
devotion) are distinct.
What Do Fathers of
Faith Say?
Smith Wigglesworth
Believed tongues were vital for spiritual power and
personal revival. He once said, “You cannot take people further than
you’ve gone yourself in God.”
Kenneth Hagin
Taught that every believer can and should speak in
tongues to grow spiritually and pray God’s will effectively.
David Oyedepo
Often teaches that tongues is a spiritual weapon and a
tool for supernatural empowerment.
Kathryn Kuhlman
Though she focused more on the person of the Holy Spirit
than tongues itself, she acknowledged the importance of being
Spirit-filled and Spirit-led.
Arguments For “All
Believers Can Speak in Tongues”
Tongues is Evidence
of Spirit Baptism
- In Acts 2, Acts 10, and Acts 19, tongues immediately
followed Spirit baptism.
- This pattern supports the idea that tongues is a common
evidence, even if not a strict requirement.
Available, Not
Exclusive
- In Mark 16:17, Jesus said “These signs will
follow those who believe… they will speak in new tongues.”
- This implies a broad availability, not a restriction.
Useful for Every
Believer
- Tongues helps with spiritual warfare, praying
God’s will, and edifying the inner man (Jude 1:20).
- Why would God reserve such a powerful tool for only a few?
Arguments Against
“Every Christian Must Speak in Tongues”
Not Everyone Did in
Scripture
- There’s no biblical record of tongues when Jesus breathed the Holy
Spirit on the disciples in John 20:22.
- Some early believers like Apollos (Acts 18:24-28) were
powerful and eloquent even before knowing about tongues.
1 Corinthians
12:29-30 – Gifts Vary
- Paul explicitly asks, “Do all speak in tongues?” suggesting
a distribution of gifts, not uniformity.
Tongues Can Become
Legalistic
- Teaching that tongues is a must can create pressure,
guilt, and faking—which grieves the Holy Spirit.
So, What’s the
Biblical Balance?
Not Required for
Salvation
- The Bible is clear: “If you confess with your mouth… you
will be saved.” (Romans 10:9)
- Tongues is not a salvation issue but a spiritual
empowerment issue.
Available to All,
Forced on None
- Like healing, prophecy, or wisdom, tongues is a gift God
wants to give freely, not something to manufacture or mandate.
Eagerly Desire,
Don’t Despise
“Do not forbid speaking in tongues.” –
1 Corinthians 14:39
“Eagerly desire spiritual gifts…” – 1 Corinthians 14:1
The right heart posture is openness, not obligation.
What Should You Do
If You Don't Speak in Tongues?
- Ask the Holy Spirit for the gift (Luke 11:13).
- Get into an atmosphere of faith and worship.
- Yield your tongue and don’t overthink it.
- Start by praising God; when prompted, speak what He gives.
- Don't fake it, but don’t fear it either.
Is tongues the
evidence of the Holy Spirit?
It’s a common evidence, but not the only one.
Love, boldness, and spiritual fruit are also signs.
Can I be
Spirit-filled without speaking in tongues?
Yes. Many Spirit-filled believers have not yet spoken in
tongues, but the gift is still available to them.
Is tongues necessary
for spiritual growth?
It greatly enhances it, but it's not the only path.
Obedience, the Word, and prayer are just as critical.
What if I try and
nothing happens?
Don’t force it. Stay in worship, faith, and expectancy.
Sometimes it happens later in prayer or worship without pressure.
Don't Debate the
Gift—Receive It
The real question isn't, “Must I speak in tongues?” but “Why
wouldn't I want to?”
Tongues is a gift, not a burden. It’s given
for your benefit, not your bondage.
Whether you speak in tongues today or not, walk in humility, hunger, and
holiness.
If you're hungry for more of God, the Holy Spirit has more
to pour. Why settle for less?
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