The topic of “speaking in tongues” is often surrounded by questions and even confusion. Is it real? Is it still happening today? What does it look like? And more importantly: What does the Bible really say about it?
If you’ve never studied the Bible before, don’t worry. This guide will walk you step by step through what Scripture teaches about the gift of tongues, using simple language, metaphors, and reflection points.
Step 1: Jesus Predicted It
Before anything else, it’s important to know that Jesus Himself said that His followers would speak in new tongues.
“In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues.” — Mark 16:17
This promise became reality after Jesus returned to heaven, when the Holy Spirit was poured out on the disciples.
“All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.” — Acts 2:4
🧠 Action Step: Ask yourself: Why would Jesus want His followers to speak in new languages? What purpose would that serve?
Step 2: Tongues as Real Languages
At Pentecost (Acts 2), the gift of tongues was used to speak real, known languages that the speakers had never learned. This was not gibberish, but clear communication.
“Each one heard their own language being spoken.” — Acts 2:6
So, the gift was a tool for mission—to preach the gospel to people from many nations.
🧠 Action Step: Read Acts 2. How did the use of tongues help people understand God’s message?
Step 3: Tongues as One of Many Gifts
Speaking in tongues is just one of many spiritual gifts given by the Holy Spirit. Not everyone receives it.
“To another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit…” — 1 Corinthians 12:10-11
The Bible never says that every believer must speak in tongues. The Spirit gives different gifts to different people, all for the building up of the church.
🧠 Action Step: Reflect: What gift might God want to give me to help others?
Step 4: Order and Clarity Matter
The church in Corinth had problems with disorder during worship, especially when it came to speaking in tongues. Paul gave clear instructions:
“If anyone speaks in a tongue, two—or at the most three—should speak, one at a time, and someone must interpret.” — 1 Corinthians 14:27
Without interpretation, people would just hear noise. God is not a God of confusion, but of peace.
“Everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.” — 1 Corinthians 14:40
🧠 Action Step: Think about your church or community. Is there clarity and purpose when spiritual gifts are used?
Step 5: Not Proof of Salvation
Some believe that speaking in tongues is the ultimate sign of being filled with the Holy Spirit. But the Bible doesn’t teach that.
“Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Do all speak in tongues?” — 1 Corinthians 12:29-30
The fruit of the Spirit—like love, kindness, patience—is a better sign of spiritual maturity than any one gift (see Galatians 5:22-23).
🧠 Action Step: Ask yourself: Am I more focused on showing gifts or growing fruit in my spiritual life?
Final Thoughts: A Gift, Not a Requirement
The gift of tongues is real and biblical. But it’s not required, not superior, and not meant for personal show. Like every gift from God, it’s meant to serve others and glorify Him.
“The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless someone interprets…” — 1 Corinthians 14:5
God gives His gifts wisely, and His Spirit leads each believer differently.
🧠 Final Action Step: Ask God to fill you with His Spirit, not just with signs—but with a heart that loves and serves.