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There are estimates that between 140 and 370 million Christians engage in speaking in tongues worldwide. If there are 1.8 billion Christians, then between 7.7% and 20.5% of all Christians engage in this activity....... Are the other 80 to 90% missing out on the Holy Spirit?

Have you ever wondered why some churches speak in strange languages and others dont ?
Thanks for taking time to read this. This is about the religious phenomona of tongue speaking. I have had the opportunity to visit many churches in my area.
Certain numbers of churches have a very strange occurrence take place within them. Some people spoke very strange sounds. Their speach seemed to be some kind of language that I didnt understand. So right away I began studying on the subject and under the ponderance of evidence found in scripture, It came to my understanding that this practice was a manifestation of corrupt teachings, old time rituals, and misenterpreting and missapplying scripture. Often scipture pertaining to tongues boldy goes unaddressed so that todays tongue speaking can continue. This controversial subject is probably the most often talked about Holy Spirit gift in the church today. Churches and people have been divided over tongue speaking for a very long time. I will let you know beforehand that this information "with its biblical truths presented before you " will attest that the NEW testament gift of tongues has ceased and whats going on today is not scriptural.
My goal here is to shed light on a very controversial subject which may " if shown" help those who believe in tongues today, to reconsider that belief and understand the Holy Spirit in a new light that will help them grow to a more truthful understanding of how the Holy Spirit works in man.

There are some who believe a religious experience must come from God since it is~~ religious. That isnt necessarily so. All religious experiences must be validated by scripture and 2 Pt:1:20 says that noone should understand scripture in a way that God didnt intend for them to. Because tongue-speaking comes without conscious effort and is not understood in truth by tongue speakers, it has often been confused for divine intervention in religion.
If something your doing in the religious field like worshipping, is in question, check everything that God says about it. Whatever you find about a certain subject must be taking in consideration and placed in its correct context. Nothing can be left out.
Dont trust what your heart tells you,- or what someone else tells you, or what you have been taught in church or by your family and friends. If you feel you had a heartfelt religious experience that may could be in question, see what the bible says about it. Test those spirits with the Word of God to see if they ARE FROM GOD. (Jeremiah 17:9) says, that the heart is deceitful and untrustworthy .

There is a biblical concept called "will-worship" read (Colossians 2:22-23). This is the kind of worship that feels good to a person; but its according to their own will and not God's will. Many of the things some do in the religious world feel good; but that does not mean God accepts them. Romans 10:2 says For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. The way we stay in agreement with God is according to his knowledge revealed in The bible.
The Bible is our Christian guide to live according to how God wants us to. Everything we must know to live a life according to God, is in his complete written will " The Bible ". In 2 Peter 1:3, God says...... seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. Now, If you are wondering if Tongue speaking today is a authorized from God, than test it to the Word of the bible. The answer you seek will be found there !!!

If you are told by anyone to " just believe" without giving reason, you are listening to someone who is not meeting Gods standard for sharing HIS Word. In 1 Peter 3:15: God says to be ready to give answer to why you believe in HIM. I also believe it means to be ready to give reason to why you believe in anything including tongue speaking today. I will often speak of Charasmatics in this work . Charasmatics are those who practice a type of Christianity that emphasize personal religious experience and divinely inspired powers, as of healing, prophecy, and the gift of tongues. Its not my position to say whether the tongue speaking experience is real to charasmatics or not, It obviously is; but scripture can tell if their experience is scriptural....Heb:4:12: For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

Many months of work are involved here; Im sharing only the most important information I could find.
What tongues "were" and what they need to be

The word tongues, in the Bible means languages. It is first mentioned in Genesis 10:5 To speak in other tongues is the ability to speak in foreign languages without having studied or otherwise learned them . This miraculous gift of the Holy Spirit enabled apostles in their day to teach people in many lands. The apostle Paul plainly said in ( 1 Corinthians.14:22). , that tongues had an evangelistic purpose: "tongues are for a sign, not to those who believe, but for the unbelieving".
Tongues were also a sign to those who heard those languages confirming that the message was authenicated by God. In Mk:16:20: The bibles says "And they (the apostles) went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them ( the apostles), and confirming the word with signs following." Tongues were a sign that proved that those who were commissioned to spread the gospel at that time were being authenitcally sent from God. These are some of the most important rules for the tongue speaker of that day. They were not to speak in tongues ( a foreign language) unless that person listening was an unbeliever and secondly , spoke in a language that the listener UNDERSTOOD ! Wow, if these two rules given by God were obeyed, Most tongue speaking today would cease immediately ! So many tongue speakers today speak out loud to anyone that can hear them AND NOONE UNDERSTANDS WHAT THEIR SAYING ! If the church is full of believers like most of them are today, why speak in tongues? What good are you doing for someone if he or she already believes? What good are you doing if the listener does not understand you? If you speak in tongues to an unbeliever , he may think you have lost your mind.....1Cor:14:23

Mark 16:20 is a very misused verse that is used in charasmatic doctrines today. They claim the verse indicates that those who recieve the Holy Spirit will recieve the gifts that the apostles did. This clearly isnt so. It was a sign given to apostles for their apostalic commission. 2 corinth 12:12 says Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds. In Mark 16, Jesus had been resurrected from death. Just 3 days earlier he was beat beyond recognition, flesh ripped from his body and face , left to die on a cross. Now Jesus had returned. Surely he didnt return in the same appearance as he was on the cross, so In Mark 16:11-13 its no suprise that those who saw him were having trouble believing it was him. Yeh, Jesus had done some mighty miracles but this one was the greatest miracle of all !!! Mark 16:14 continues on the same way; Jesus was scolding the apostles for not believing it was HIM after he had risen . Now without anything to waste; Jesus says in Mark 16:15 Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. Jesus was saying, believers will be saved and unbelievers will not and that statement was also directed to the apostles !!! Thats Simple enough. continuing... And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues. Jesus was speaking to the congregation of eleven. The eleven was the " THEY" he was talking to. Wheres the proof you ask ?
They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.
Do we today take up serpents, and drink deadly stuff to honor God with his gift of salvation? No way, God says not to put him to a foolish test Lk 4:12
Do we huredly go find some sick people to lay our hands on after getting saved? If we did wouldnt be awesome if we could heal the sick by laying hands on people? This is obviously not what were supposed to do. If we did try, would they recover? Probably not because we are not apostles with the gift. When the Holy Spirit was working with the apostles, the miracles were instantaneous and there was no question about it ! When hands were layed on the sick, they recoverd instantly !!! IF not, than the miracle would be in question as to whether the healing could have been natural. Yes, these miracles ARE NOT FOR US TODAY !!!

And they (THE APOSTLES) went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following.
2 Cor:12:12: Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds.

We; like the apostles are commissioned by God to spread the gospel but it is clearly indicated in 2 Corinth 12:12 that signs, wonders and mighty deeds were done by the apostles. In Ephesians 4:11-12: And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Each of us are members in the body of Christ. Each member has a gift or gifts that helps us work for the ministry of Christ. Each member has a gift or gifts that is used for the edifying of this Body. Apostles had the gifts of tongues and we simply do not. Gifts in Mark 16 were gifts that were to FOLLOW these apostalic believers, not everyone throughout time. Is this making sense to you yet?

Get your pencils and paper ready, this is where the rubber meets the road . This is why and when tongues ceased !!!! 1 corinthians 13:8
If there are prophecies, they will be done away; if there are tongues, they will cease; or knowledge, it will be done away. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part; but when that which is perfect comes, that which is in part will be done away. When I was a child, I used to speak as a child, think as a child, reason as a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things. For now we see in a mirror, in an enigma, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I shall fully know just as I am fully known. I will repeat this verse many times throughout for an obvious reason.
In the passage quoted above, the Apostle Paul taught that at the coming of "that which is perfect," three things were to happen: "Prophecies" would be abolished, "knowledge" or (supernaturally revealed knowledge) would be abolished, and "tongues" (the supernaturally acquired speaking of languages) would cease.
"Prophecies, "knowledge," and "tongues" were things that were "in part," incomplete or imperfect.
Paul compared having them as being like a child, and to looking through a mirror dimly instead of "face to face; then doing away of those things when maturity and perfection arives. Based on Paul's words in this passage, the only question as to whether or not the gift of "tongues" exists today as it did in Bible times is a question of timing: Has "that perfect thing" come?" If it has, then tongues have ceased, but if it hasnt; then tongues have continued through the generations up to this very day.

First, to determine whether or not "that perfect thing" has come; we must determine exactly what "that perfect thing" is. The Greek ( bible language at that time) word for "perfect" is telios, t-e-l-i-o-s. It means complete," "full grown" or "mature." It refers to something that has been brought to its end or goal. Paul was looking forward to a coming maturity or completeness. The term telios does not refer to “perfect” in the sense typically understood by the average modern English reader....to be sinless. Following this faulty notion, some have concluded that the “perfect” refers to Jesus-since He has been the only perfect person. (by the way, there is no record of Jesus speaking in tongues) ! Other interpretations apply “perfect” to heaven (the only perfect place that will be free of sin and imperfection), or Christian maturity and perfect love (the perfect condition or quality). But, in context, Paul wasnt contrasting qualities or places. He was contrasting quantities....
He was making a contrast between the partial miraculous gifts, with the coming of the what was to be- an imparital thing..... the fully revealed Word of God.
Again the Greek word describing PERFECT is teleios. The word refers to totality, that which is whole, brought to its end, finished, and lacking nothing necessary to be complete. Even James in James 1:25 used the term PERFECT to refer to the all-sufficiency of God’s Word in its ability to achieve everything it was intended to do. ((( I believe it is already evident that tongues have ceased but Im going to burn away any mystery about tongues today about 20 more times before Im finished here))). Teleios is a neuter word. Most foreign languages use nouns in the masculine or the feminine gender considering on how the noun is used. Here its used as a neuter word, giving strong indication that it does not refer to a person ,so PERFECT does not refer to Jesus. But thats just a language lesson making our point, lets dig into scripture now...
There are two places in the New Testament that speak of that perfection to which Paul and the 1st-century Church were hoping to attain.
From these two passages and their contexts we will be able to determine exactly what " that perfect thing" was to be, and also when it was to come. The two references are Eph. 4:13 and Heb. 9:11. Let us first look at Eph. 4:13

Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive. Here we see that "that which is perfect" was to be the full-grown Body of Christ, the mature Church." God was building up Christ's Body, the Church, through the gifts of the Holy Spirit and by revealing his word to the Church so it could grow up in Christ-likeness unto the mature or perfect Man We would be mature in Gods full knoweldge so that we wouldnt be persuaded by mans untruths and deceptions. Heres a question that simplifies what Paul was saying about being perfected in Christ...
How can something be fully replicated toward something; if that something hasnt been fully revealed itself?
Mankind could not be perfected or completed in the image of Christ until Christs image was made complete through the finished works of the bible.. Gods Will had to be completely revealed before we could honor his will completely. Wow, this is beautiful stuff !!!!!

And Eph. 2:21 teaches us exactly what this final perfection of the Body of Christ was to mean:"
When the Church finally reached maturity or perfection through the gifts of the Holy Spirit and the fully revealed word of God, The body of Christ which is THE CHURCH was to become God's Temple. Through the gifts of the Holy Spirit, the Church was "being built together into a Dwelling-place of God in the Spirit." Peter refers to that future perfection when he wrote "... Eph 2:19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief cornerstone In whom all the building fitly framed together grows unto a holy temple in the Lord: In whom you also are built together for a habitation of God through the Spirit. We are the temple (the body of believers) the unity - the oneness, that Jesus spoke of which was built without hands through his circumsision in Colossians 2:11
That which is perfect" came by means of the Holy Spirit and was the consummation of the work of the Holy Spirit." The body of believers was the end result from the work of the Holy Spirit. Dont forget that one duty of the Holy Spirit was to reveal Gods Word through prophecy and knowledge that was being revealed through apostles and prophets ;- and to help propigate that knowledge was the gift of tongues. Once that prophecy and knowledge was finished being revealed, It would cease... and so would the tongues that helped propigate it !!! ( Are you accepting these facts so far or just snickering at it?)
Now according to the Bible, when exactly in history was the work of the Holy Spirit in perfecting the Body of Christ to be consummated or finished, so that the perfect Temple of God ( The body of believers )would reach its fullness....... bringing about the cessation of tongues?" To answer this, let's look at the final New Testament reference to the coming of "that which is perfect."

A study on the Imperfect Tabernacle and the perfect Tabernacle . One had to go before the other one came into existence.
This will explain what took place WHEN tongues ceased. Hebrews 9:11 But Christ having appeared as a High Priest of the coming good things, through the greater and more perfect Tabernacle not made with hands, that is, not of this creation....
The "more perfect Tabernacle" here is that heavenly "Temple" or "Dwelling place" unto which the Church was growing through the power of the Holy Spirit in Eph. 2:21,22. This temple was not a building or anything that was created by hands. " It corresponds to the heavenly "building," "house" and "home" with which the Church was expecting to be clothed. 2 Cor. 5: 1,2,6;
it is the "Abode" which the Father and the Son were going to make within believers (Jn. 14:23);
it is the promised "Tabernacle of God among men" which the Church was anxiously awaiting (Rev. 21:3; 22:7,10,12,20).
" It was to be the formation of Christ in the Church which Paul was eagerly expecting Gal. 4:19."
It was to be the realization of the first-century Church's hope of glory: "Christ in you" (Col. 1:27).
" In very truth, it is that Kingdom which Jesus said is "within you" (Lk. 17:21).
This is what "Perfection is". "Its the full spirit of God in man " Again I say, none of this could come to be without the Bible; the complete and finished revelations of God. When the book of Hebrews was written (A.D. 66), the saints knew that the Way into the heavenly, PERFECT Tabernacle or Sanctuary (the face-to-Face Presence of God) had not yet been manifest to all the saints ( Heb. 11:39,40) because the first, earthly tabernacle was still standing (Heb. 9:8,9)
In other words, as long as the worldly, fleshly, old-testament tabernacle of God was still standing, then "that which is perfect" ("the more perfect Tabernacle", the Temple of God; the complete, blood- perfected Church) had not yet come in its fullness."
As long as the imperfect earthly house of God remained standing and its sinful ministers were still in power, the "more perfect tabernacle" would not be established with finality in Christ's true people. In light of the above, we are now in a position to answer the question, When in history did this new more perfect temple arive; or better said; when did "that which is perfect" come?

The answer is- when the old-testament temple was thrown down and the old-testament world and way of worship passed away and vanished (Heb. 8:13)." At that time, tongues ceased ! Jesus said concerning the old, imperfect temple at earthly Jerusalem, Do you not see all these things?" [the beautiful stones and gifts and buildings of the temple]" "Truly I say to you, there shall not be left here one stone on a stone which shall not be thrown down." In A.D. 70, about 40 years after Jesus' spoke that prophecy, the old temple and the old covenant world were thrown down." God's heavenly Temple was then completely established among men." That which is (PERFECT) had come!" God gathered His elect into His House ( or Kingdom) when the earthly, hand-made" house was thrown down (II Cor. 5:1)." The Church was complete (PERFECT) in the New Covenant Presence of Christ ! To sum up- prophecy, knowledge and tongues came to an end when:
1. the Church became the Perfect Temple through the work of the indwelling Holy Spirit,
2. when the Way into the heavenly, perfect Tabernacle of God was made manifest to all the saints,
3. when the ( imperfect), old testament tabernacle was thrown down by the judgment of God and the saints in the consummation of the old covenant age in A.D. 70.
4. and tongues came to an end when the complete revelations of God were made known to man through the finished works of the bible.

Pauls illustration in 1 Corinth 13. says that -When the church possessed only bits and pieces of God’s will, as revealed through scattered miraculous gifts and the gradual production of scripture, Paul could not achieve full spiritual maturity. He could not become a mirrored image of God until (God) had revealed himself fully to man. Hence the verse....For now we see through a glass, dimly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as I am fully known. Paul could not see God completely because God at that time had not revealed himself completely ! Paul only knew IN PART about God; God was dim to HIM- obsure to HIM. But after God revealed himself fully through the completion of the bible, Then Paul could see God clearly- in full revealed detail.. Paul then could know God fully as God fully knows Paul. !!! ALL THIS IS SCRIPTURE SCREAMING THE TRUTH ABOUT TONGUES TO YOU !!!!!!
Now lets disect 1 Corinthians 13:8 from what we have learned;
Love never fails: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.
For we know in part( at that time Paul knew only the imcomplete bible), and we prophesy in part ( Paul could only preach Gods incomplete revelations at that time)
But when that which is perfect comes ( when Gods full revelations come) , that which is in part ( those apostalic gifts just spoken of ) will be done away.
When I was a child ( the incomplete man in Christ) , I used to speak as a child ( speak without the total knowledge of God) , think as a child, reason as a child; when I became a man ( when Paul matured in fullness through Gods complete revelations) , he did away with childish things ( those apostalic partial gifts- TONGUES BEING ONE OF THEM !!!) . For now we see in a mirror, ( at that time God was not clearly seen) , but then ( after God completed his revelations) face to face ( Paul could see God in his fullness) ; now I know in part ( Gods revelations were incomplete) , but then ( when Gods revelations WOULD BE complete) I shall fully know ( Paul will know all the information about God ) just as I am fully known ( Just as God already knows all there is to know about Paul)
Like I said This where the rubber meets the road why and when tongues have ceased. It is so important that we understand this lesson so we can incorporate .... or should I say so we shouldnt incorporate it in our worship services.
Paul lacked the necessarey information for spiritual maturity. He was as a child.
However, when the totality of God’s will, which became the New Testament, had been revealed in its entiriety, Paul then would have the means available to become “a man” (1 Corinthiasn 13:11).
Once the church (body of believers) had access to all of God’s written Word, -the means by which the Word was dispersed ( sometimes tongues ) would dissapear !!! They would be obsolete, useless, and therefore be “put away”. Now that the church has access to “all truth” (John 16:13), the use of tongue-speaking and other miraculous enhancements in the church today; would be done away. (( how many times do I need to say this)) ??

In Epheisans 4, Paul made essentially the same point to the Ephesians that he made to the Corinthians. Apostlic Miracles given by Christ, were to last “till the unity of the faith came into existance and the (FULL COMPLETE )knowledge of the Son of God was revealed.” ONCE we receive the fullness of Christ (The ARMOR OF GOD) which is the helmet of salvation, the sword of the spirit, the shield of faith, The breastplate of righteousness,The belt of truth ---all of these were brought about by the complete revealed word and works of God ; we as children of God would have the means available to keep from being deceived by the doctrines of men. (Eph 4:14) !! Again "Perfect" is neuter gender; "Christ" is always masculine gender. Scripture does not say, "when He who is perfect comes" but "when THAT" which is perfect comes refers to a thing, not a person and certainly not Christ. Jesus is a person, not a thing!!!!!!

Lets put this issue to rest.............
Supernaturally revealed knowledge- prophesy, and tongues, were tools used to build Gods church. Once that church is built to its completion, those tools are put away and no longer used. by the way... Read 1 Cor 13:8 again. Now for those charismatics who think PERFECT is heaven- If tongue speakers are correct that the perfect is heaven , Why would God bother telling mankind that tongues would cease when were DEAD and gone to heaven? According to tongue speakers, we will be dead here on Earth when the Perfect comes !!!!!! OUR FLESH and our TONGUEs will have rotted back to the dust !!! God was telling us that there will soon be a time that tongues will cease !!!!
ps . Take note, these 3 and only 3 gifts were to cease, not the other spiritual gifts we are to seek and desire. ((Lets keep studying)) !

Why Tongues Ceased - another lesson why tongues have ceased.
God never intended the gift of speaking in tongues to continue indefinitely. Paul expressly wrote, "tongues shall cease" (I Corinthians.13:8). The evangelistic endeavor that established the early church all over the Mediterranean world was carried out under the leadership of the apostles. The apostolic prophetic offices were revelatory (Ephesians.3:5). This is to say, during the period in which the New Testament was being written, apostles and prophets received truth directly from God. Apostles were sent off with the gospel, while prophets seem to have been apostolic assistants. The revelation that they received was recorded in the books we call the New Testament. Not only did miraculous gifts enable apostles to preach in many languages they did not know ,but these gifts also attested to their apostolic commission (II Corinthians.12:12) just as miraculous deeds attested to Jesus' evangelistic work (Acts.2:22). Moreover, by extraordinary gifts, God confirmed the apostles writings (Hebrews.2:2-4). When the writing of the Scriptures was completed, their authorship needed no further confirmation !!!! It was during the laying of the foundations of the church that miraculous gifts were needed. The offices of apostle and prophet, with whom God deposited these gifts, ceased when that foundation was laid. This is clear from Ephesians.2:20. A foundation is laid at the beginning only; it does not extend up the walls or into the roof!
When Paul said special gifts were "the signs of a true apostle", he surely implied that not all Christians had them. It was only the apostles, and those to whom they imparted them (Acts.19:6 and 7; Romans.1:11), who possessed these gifts. Suppose I were to say "Our church meets in a house in the 200 block of Central Avenue - you can't miss it; just look for the sign." But, when you arrived, every house looked alike and all had the same sign! Then the sign would be useless; it would no longer be good for anything . If after Jewish and Gentile Pentecosts (Acts.2:10), when the Holy Spirit came directly, gifts were mediated only by the Apostles (Acts.8:17,18; ACTS 19:6,7), then, they would indeed be a sign of a true apostles (II Corinthians.12:12). But only so. If anyone could himself obtain gifts from God, apart from apostles, then tongues would be no more a sign to help you identify a true apostle than the all those signs on Central Avenue !!!
Signs and wonders belonged to the foundation period of the church - - a period, presumably, that those who teach otherwise (ex. Pentecostal and Holiness churches) seem not to recognize (even though Paul clearly alludes to it in Ephesian.2:20) !!
They have no more place in the church today than newly revealed Scripture today ( TAKE NOTE FOR THOSE WHO BELIEVE IN PROPHETS OF TODAY). You may assume, therefore, that no matter how well-meaning persons who claim the gift of tongues may be, they have deceived themselves about it. Do not be taken in by their sincerity or the "heavenly gibberish" that they may seem to speak. Im sure their experience is genuine to them, but its not scriptural. Pray for them. Ask them to listen to scripture. Ask them to learn with you. Dont share experiences, feelings or church doctrine. These things change and can be corrupted. Stick to scripture, it does not change and its perfectly true. God even said Jer:17:9: The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? . With this said why would you trust your heart over scripture? Focus your attention on the Scriptures and the One of Whom they speak. In Him alone, is the mighty power of God deposited and displayed.........not tongue speakers. ( Are yall tired yet? Weve got so much more to study) !!

Cons of tongue speaking. Some churches refuse to allow speaking in tongues not only because its not scriptural but because it causes confusion. Any time there is strong pro- and strong con beleifs on any matter, their will be discord. It's as true of church as it is of anything else; it's how human beings are. This is what happened in the church of Corinth. They were a zealous people ( we already talked about zealous people) and wanted the gifts but they didnt have them, so it was obvious that many were imitating them when Paul sayed in 1 Corithians 14:5 " I wish you could all speak in tongues" ( NOTICE PAUL SAID WISH AND NOT (((PRAY)))) FOR THERE WAS NO REASON TO PRAY FOR SOMETHING THAT ONE WOULD KNOW WOULD NEVER HAPPEN !!!))
Speaking in tongues often triggers dissagreement in a congregation. One big problem is that some tongues-speakers come to believe that those who have not spoken in tongues are somehow lesser Christians. Even many of those who do not come out and say may act like it. Treating one's brothers and sisters in Christ as 'lesser'- is at its root a denial of the Gospel, a rejection of oneness in Christ and of how we all stand the same as forgiven sinners . Pride is a tool that Satan uses to crawl throughout the Body, infecting its parts with spiritual arrogance. One of the things God hates is pride Proverbs 6:17. Ive even been told by someone close to me that She was on higher spiritual level then me because she THOUGHT she had an apostolic gift. In short, it is not the way of the Spirit to see any superiority in being a tongues-speaker or even having a gift considered being better than another. That is not the fruit of the Spirit, nor a ministry of consolidating believers into one body. A lesser problem is in the reaction to the tongues. Many people are put off by the speaking of tongues. They find it disturbs their worship experience. It's disorderly, sometimes loud, spontaneous and unpredictable. Who knows how long a session of tongue speaking will last or what else the person may do during a bout of tongue speaking. Christians who dont know about tongue speaking will wonder why they themselves are not speaking in tongues. Alot of charasmatics claim that one must speak in tongues for evidence of salvation. Although this is the most ludicrous thing Ive ever heard, those who dont have scriptural backing, will believe such nonsense. I would never want to be held accountable for misleading someone into doubting their salvation because I told them they must speak in tongues to show their salvation. This kind of deception is satan in action right in the middle of a zealous christian church ( who by the way are on fire for God but without truth on many matters ) ! Then you will have Christians that do know about tongues wondering whats wrong with those who are speaking them !
Somebody in the church has got to know what he is talking about right? !God is not the author of confusion, so I must conclude in this simple realization, that God is not the author of tongues today !
Before I studied tongue speaking in-depth, a wonderful God loving charasmatic lady came to me and asked if she could pray for me. I said "sure". She put both hands on my head and began praying for me. I felt blessed but then her words became gibberish to me. She was speaking in todays tongues. It wasnt doing me any good hearing the muttering she was doing. I was dumbfounded and confused. There was no edifying done for her or me. God says that everything in church must be done for edifying. It really gave me an uncomfortable feeling. During this episode I could hear others in the church speaking in tongues at the same time this lady was. Later I learned in scripture that ALL those speaking in tongues during this time werent obeying scripture. Why? --1Cor:14:27: If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret. So there you go, even if if tongues were still intended for today, this one definately wasnt obeying scripture ! Too much attention to tongues (and other unusual signs, gifts, and displays) takes attention away from more important matters at hand, matters of racism and poverty , of evangelism and teaching, of the Love of God; the kinds of matters that are the "main and plain" things of the Scriptures, and the work of the Church. There shouldnt be anything going on in the church today that raises confusion, division, pride or uncomforatable feelings.

Heavenly language misused/ speaking mysteries
1 Cor. 14:2 says, "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." Notice the word "tongue" is singular, versus "tongues" as in the"gift of diverse tongues" which is plural! Further, notice the difference of application here. The unknown tongue is a tongue in the spirit, its being spoken to and understood by God and not men, whereas the Gift of Tongues is to be spoken to and understood by men! 2 verses later in Verse 4 it says, "He that speaketh in an [unknown] tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesy's edifies the church."
Lets study what these "mysteries" are and the tongue this man is speaking. The mysteries of the kingdom of Heaven were written about in the Old Testament, but evidently not understood. Indeed, even when our Lord revealed those mysteries, He did so only to His disciples, but kept them hidden from the crowds. We read in Matt. 13:10-12 our Lord's own testimony to that fact. "The disciples came to Him and asked, 'Why do you speak to the people in parables?' He replied, 'The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of Heaven have been given to you, but not to them". Interesting huh? There are many mysteries and parables which were at a time mysteries to people back in the time the bible was being written. Fullfilment of prophecy and revelation had not came to a close yet. I could speak on many examples of mysteries but like my introduction to this work states, I will stay on the issue of tongue speaking. Hang tight; Im getting right to the point....
The word mystery or mysteries in the bible usually refer to the mysteries of God, Christ and or the Kingdom of God. Col. 4:3-6 Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds: That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak. Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man. Here we are talking about God opening a door of utterance for us so that the mystery of of Christ may be spoken about to those that want to hear answers to their questions about the grace of God. Paul was in bonds for preaching the mystery of Christ. By determining the specific reasons for Paul's bonds, we can then determine what the mystery of Christ is. Pauls first and foresmost ordained duty was the same as ours. To spread the gospel of Christ. The gospel is a mystery to all until it is revealed to those that are willing to believe. It was preached to the Jews and at that time it was a mystery even to Paul; but then it would be later preached to the Gentiles. The mysteries of the New Testament usually have to do with the resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. They are mentioned or alluded to more than any other mystery. After reading about the reason Paul was in Bonds, and the how CHRISTS DEATH BURIAL AND RESURRECTION ARE REFERRED TO AS A MYSTERY SO OFTEN, This seems, in my opinion, to be extremely appropriate for what the man who speaks mysteries is talking about !! Our salvation rests upon our belief in Christs death and resurrection; there is nothing more important or more fundamental than that. But like I said we were having a little fun learning about what those mysteries the man in 1 Corinthians may have been talking to God about. Those mysteries he was speaking could mean anything; you will soon find out why;

Lets repeat... "For he that speaketh in an [unknown] tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth [him]; however in the spirit he speaks mysteries." Now lets use the bible to elaborate what this man is doing speaking in mysteries....1 Corinth 14:4 just 2 verses after the man who speaks mysteries, Paul elborates on this man.... He that speaketh in a tongue, edifieth himself: but he that prophesieth, edifieth the church.
The bible says let all things be done to edifying. Or simply said. Let anything spoken be done for Christ. If tongues were to continue today, it should be done to profit the church or an unbeleiver. Tongues are NOT to be used to benefit the tongue speaker ! But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.1 Corinthians 12:7 Man is this powerful stuff ! In conclusion, the one and only scenario that this verse could be saying while obeying scripture is this man is speaking in his own language to God. He is speaking ( praying ) to God. No one can understand him because noone ( at that moment) knows his language. ( that is why his language is being called an unknown tongue)
My point is this.... If your speaking to God why not speak English so the both you and God understand, and just in case someone else may be listening, speak in English so they can be edified too ! Unknown tongues are not doing you, God , or anyone else ANY GOOD !!


Lets go a little deeper and realize how important it is to God for one who speaks in tongues to be understood.
1 Corinth 14:28: But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silent in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God. God says if anyone present does not understand what your saying through the speaker or the speakers interpreter, keep your lip zipped. In this verse it says you can speak to God and yourself while STILL REMAINING SILENT. So tongue speakers who insist on speaking in tongues BETTER have an interperter and only then ,after they have obeyed ALL of Gods rules for speaking out loud in tongues ! So even if there was such a thing as a mysterious heavenly language that consisted of ecstatic utterances ( and their isnt) noone should speak such utterances unless someone understands those utterances !The man in who spoke mysteries was speaking to God and noone could understand because noone spoke that mans language. He could say whatever he wanted to God in his language. If you didnt speak his language, not matter what he said, it would always be a mystery to you. Its that simple.

Glossolalia Today glos·so·la·li·a from the american heritage dictionary 1. Fabricated and nonmeaningful speech, especially such speech associated with a trance state or certain schizophrenic syndromes. If the gift of tongues were not ecstatic utterances and if the gift of tongues ceased shortly after the death of the Apostles, then how do we account for the phenomenon of tongues in the form of ecstatic utterances today? It is interesting to note that glossolalia is not a phenomenon confined to Christianity. Pagan religions throughout the world are frenzied with tongues. Glossolalia is practiced among these few non-Christian religions of the world; the Peyote cult among the North American Indians, the Shamans in the Sudan and Greenland, the Shango cult of the West Coast of Africa, the Shago cult in Trinidad, the Voodoo cult in Haiti, the Zor cult of Ethiopia, the Chaco Indians of South America, the Curanderos of the Andes, the Thonga shamans of Africa and Tibetan monks just to name a few. Certainly we wouldn't attribute Glossolalia in these heathen religions to the work of the holy Spirit !
Behavioral Scientists have conducted extensive research on glossolalia and for the most part concur that supernatural forces are not necessary to explain its existence. Here are some basic findings...
1. Glossolalia is an ancient and widespread phenomenon of most societies, occurring most usually in connection with religion.
2. Glossolalia may occur as part of a larger condition of hysterical, dissociative, or trance states, or it may occur completely alone.
3. Glossolalia is not necessarily related to specific personality types but it its prevalent in certain denominations and void in others. HOW very very INTERESTING
4. Glossolalia may be deviant behavior due to abnormality of the mind, or it may be normal expected behavior, depending on the social,cultural, and religious environment.
5. Tongues Can Be Psychologically Induced
Tongues-speakers go into something called motor automatism or automatic speach. It is clinically described as radical inward detachment from one's conscious surroundings. In fact I have a video ( http://www.conspiracyworld.com/index0021.htm) tape of a charismatic pastor teaching how to speak in tongues !!! Motor automatism results in disassociation of nearly all voluntary muscles from conscious control - it is that which occurs at Rock concerts. When the emotion is so high, people loose control of their muscular functions and roll around and talk in a gibberish manner.


There is a wealth of reasonable information which gives us an outline of the mental, social, and cultural contexts within which glossolalia can be, and is, produced. We need not invoke either divine or devilish supernatural forces to explain or justify the existence and function of glossolalia.
Perhaps the most important distinction that should be made is between cause and consequence. Glossolalia is not "caused" by supernatural forces. However, glossolalia may be a "consequence" of involvement in deep and meaningful spiritual worship. Glossolalia does not miraculously change people in a supernatural sense, but participating in glossolalia may make the person or group feel more spiritual, supernatural or/and blessed, hence therefore causing some Christians to think they are on a higher spiritual level than others. IT MAY EVEN MAKE THOSE WHO WATCH, FOR OUT ALL THEIR MONEY !!!
Glossolalia is an unusual pattern of aberrant speech. Current research provides new sources of information for examining the phenomena of glossolalia. It may be a conscious connection between deep sincere thought processes which manifests themselves into ones speech. The meaning and function of glossolalia is closely tied to its social and cultural context. Some glossolalia is very poorly organized and consists of little more than grunts and barely-formed sounds, while other glossolalia is highly organized into a systematic series of vowels and consonants. Several language studies, suggest that glossolalists develop their speech from ill-formed structure to "practiced" and "polished" glossolalic speech. Werner Cohn, at the University of British Columbia, took naïve students to charasmatic churches to hear glossolalia and then asked the students to speak glossolalia in the laboratory. They were able to successfully do so. Their recordings were then played to tongue speakers who were not told of the experiment. They described the glossolalia as beautiful examples of Holy Spirit induced tongue speaking !!!! Think about this... what good would a miracle from God be, if mankind could reproduce, and replicate that miracle? Who has the authority in church to say that anyone that is speaking in an unknown language is REALLY incorporating a miracle in the church? NOONE !!!

True communicative language has structure , but tongue speakers linguistics are very limited to any identifiable structure; and that their capacity to speak in any type of semi-organized language can be replicated very easily. Thus, glossolalia does not appear to be a supernatural "strange language," but rather the aborted or incomplete formation of familiar and structured language. This research clearly undercuts the claims of tongue speakers that they speak a "heavenly language." In reality they are speaking crude abbreviations of their national language or just simple gibblerish. John P. Kildahl, a clinical psychologist and professor at New York Theological Seminary, said the charasmatic practice of speaking in tongues constituted "learned behavior." In his address, he said that on the basis of his research and extensive correspondence with charismatics, it appeared that five elements were normally present when someone began speaking in tongues. These are a "magnetic" relationship with a group leader, a sense of personal distress or excitement, and "intense emotional atmosphere, a supporting group, and the prior learning of history of tongue speaking and its religious significance in that group. In the case of people who begin to speak in tongues when they were alone, he said "these five conditions have been present in the days or weeks preceding the initial experience."

By the way, never has there been a recorded case of anyone speaking in biblical tongues that didnt have prior learned knowledge of supernatural tongue speaking !
Kildahl in his book The Psychology of Speaking in Tongues, further explains how glossolalia is initiated: Typically after an ordinary evening church service, interested members of the congregation are invited to remain in church in order to discuss the gift of tongues. The leader encourages the people to "receive" this ability going from one to another laying his hands on each person's head. The leader may then speak..."Say after me what I say, and then go on speaking in the tongue that the Lord will give you." One might utter a few syllables, speak for two or three minutes, or however long they feel to speak. Once possessed of this ability, a person retains it and can speak with fluency whenever he chooses. It does not matter whether he is alone ,or in a group of fellow tongue speakers. He can do it silently in the midst of a party, or aloud before a large audience. The experience brings peace and joy and inner harmony. Tongue speakers view it as an answer to prayer, an assurance of divine love and acceptance. It is referred to as a "direct and personal encounter with the holy Spirit." How do we explain tongues today? As has been noted, tongues-speaking is also practiced in many heathen religions throughout the world today. Certainly this is not the work of the holy Spirit.
When a person has experienced tongues he is absolutely convinced as to the scripturalness of his experience and the correctness of his doctrinal beliefs. Hence the traditional charasmatic insists on the correctness of the "second blessing." . Charasmatics testify that their tongue speaking experience has deepened their devotion to God. A tongue speaking experience convinces anyone that their brand of Christianity is right. Im sure you would hear many reasons from tongue speakers why they believe in tongues but when you have so much scientific data backed by a megaload of biblical scripture and LOGIC saying tongues have ceased, there really isnt any reason to believe in tongues today. Tongue speakers can repeat scripture upon scripture backing up their claims to speak in tongues but you can not; must not , take scripture out of context. It must correlate, compliment and obviously fit in with all scripture relating to the subject of speaking in tongues. Even if authentic tongue speaking were still going on today, most tongue speaking would cease if rules that the Apostle Paul gave about tongue speaking were obeyed.

The Abuse of Tongues at Corinth
It is helpful to understand why Paul had to go into a discussion on tongues in 1 Corinthians 14. Corinth was the commercial center of Greece. Much of the commerce between Rome and the East passed through its harbors. Consequently it was a city of many different nationalities and tongues ( languages).
The gift of tongues (foreign languages) was prevalent among the brethren of Corinth to assist them in witnessing the Gospel to so many diverse nationalities.
1 Corinthians 14:19-20 reveals that the brethren at Corinth abused the gift. They were childish in the use of tongues. Like little children with a new toy, they wanted to show off. ( sound familiar ?) At their church services they exhorted in tongues and they prayed in tongues without any interpretation. This edified none . Hence Paul's reprimand, "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.
Note the phrase "that by my voice I might teach others ALSO." This implies that if he spoke in tongues ; he taught "others . Even when he spoke in tongues to others ( he would pray that he would understand what he was speaking himself. HENCE 1Cor:14:13: Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret. THIS STUFF FITS TOGETHER LIKE A PUZZLE OF A MILLION PIECES DOESNT IT????

People were supposed to learn something from tongue speaking. Tongue speaking wasnt just a sign, it was a tool for propigating the gospel. Today tongues are used as a claim of initial evidence of being overcome by the Holy Spirit and being saved . Where does the bible say that? I cant find it anywhere !
1 Corinthians 14:6 Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine? Tongues in the early church were revelations, prophecies, knowlege and scripture aurthorized by God. This is what the listener heard from someone who was speaking in authentic tongues. The language the listener heard was his own and what he heard through tongues was revelations, prophecies and knowledge. The thought of speaking in tongues today where the listener does not comprehend what the tongues-speaker is saying is absurd and contradicts scripture. Who knows what tongue speakers today are saying. Its possible if their tongue is controlled by a demonic spirit, that they could be cursing the Lord out loud in church, while all those listening would say " Amen" to it. Wouldnt satan just love that !!! I dont want any part of it !
First Corinthians 14:9 provides another proof that Paul is speaking of foreign languages and not ecstatic utterances. In dealing with the problem of tongues Paul said, "except ye utter by the tongue; words [rational sounds] easy to be understood , how shall it be known what is spoken? For ye shall speak into the air [in vain]. Paul says if you are not speaking a language he understands, you might as well be barking at the moon !

1 Corinth 14:10 There are so many kinds of languages in the world, [notice Paul is not talking about so called "heavenly languages" but voices in the world] and none of them are without signification [each national language has its distinct meaning]. Thanks alot Paul, you just erased that heavenly gibberish doctrine away in one verse. 1 Corinth 14:11 11: Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh shall be a barbarian unto me. Barbarian is a Greek word that means foreigner, not barbarian as we are used to understanding it. Paul is clearly saying that an unknown voice or tongue is the equivalent of a foreign language that he of course could not understand. The logic of 1 Corinthians 14:9-11 is only meaningful if tongues are foreign languages and not ecstatic utterances. Paul has surely laid down the law for some easy understanding. Makes one wonder in awe what in the world are those crazy sounds coming out of tongue speakers today !!

Groanings which cannot be uttered
Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Romans 8:26 The common Charismatic interpretation of this verse says that since we often don’t know what to pray for, we should speak in tongues and the Holy Spirit will pray through us the very thing that needs to be prayed. Is that what this verse is talking about? No it is not ! This passage says that the Holy Spirit will pray FOR us not "through" us. It further states that what is prayed are "Groanings which cannot be utterered (spoken). Since tongues are spoken, they cannot be what this verse is referring to.
What then is this verse saying? Exactly what it says is this; since we do not always know what to pray or how to pray , the Holy Spirit prays FOR us. His groanings are our groanings which while were in despair, cant be made into the words we want to use, but The Holy Spirit undestands what we are trying to say and then translates them for us so God can understand.. ( another concept of the Holy Trinty in action !! )
allow me to elborate. Sometimes we are so distraught and confused, that we dont know exactly what or how to pray. Ive been like that. This is where the Holy Spirit carrys our groanings unto God for us because at the time we cannot speak what should be spoken to God. See at the beginning at the verse, the Spirit is helping us with our infirmities. The sprit is helping us in our dispair to get our needs in prayer carried on to God. The spirit is interceding for us. This is so simple and think about it, God has got us covered in our worst situation. Even when we are down and out, so distraught that we are unable to put our problems into words so that we can speak them to God, the Holy Spirit intercedes for us and carrys our groanings that we cant put into words , and makes them where they can be understood by God. IF we come to God crying and all we can say is " God help me" or even if we are beyond speaking, he will understand. Isnt our God a wonderful God !!!! Amen Hallelujah !!!!
Since we see that todays tongues are not a sign for being spirit filled , how can a Christian know if he or she is indwelled with the Holy Spirit? We will read what the Bible says ARE SIGNS OF A SPIRIT FILLED CHRISTIAN

Signs of being saved... (1) Loving the brethren (1 John 3:14).
(2) Holding the beginning of our confidence to the end (Hebrews 3;14).
(3) Walking in the light as Jesus is in the light (1 John 1:7).
(4) Doing righteousness (1 John 3:10).
(5) Worshiping God, rejoicing in Jesus, and having no confidence in the flesh (Phil 3:3).
(6) Having the fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:22-25).
Although the Holy Ghost does not cause Christians to speak in tongues, dont think that The Holy Ghost does not have an active role in the lives of Christians today.
Prayer is still effective, the sick can be made well. James 5:13-18 The gospel message still rings out Matt 24:14 God still offers us wisdom James 1:5-8
The Spirit is still active John 16:6-11 and the Father is still working to bring men to salvation Acts 17:24-27 and guides us in all truth John 16:13

But the miraculous does not come at the hands of men. Apostalic gifts have been done away with and have been superceded by truth. There will be no more prophesy, the Bible is complete. We are not to add to it, or subtract from it. It alone will judge us John 12:47-48 The Holy Ghost still does miracles, but it is at the discretion of God, not of man ! Unlike those with specific gifts of times past, God does not use miracles as a witness to truth, but rather as a testimony to his power.
God no longer has to prove his power or himself through miracles because God has ALREADY PROVED HIMSELF; and his proofs are recorded in the finished WORD of the bible. Now God does incorporate miracles in this age but they are not the miracles used by the apostle for the reasons apostles used them.
If God could not heal, give, forgive, do miracles galore.... than why are praying? Because we know that God can answer our prayers. Faith is what we are justified through.


Paul gave direct instruction that tongues are a sign to unbelievers and not believers.
So in any given instance it must be presumed that anyone who spoke in tongues, spoke for the reason that their were unbelievers in their presence. If this wasnt the case, then we would have to acknowledge that there are contradictions in the bible...... and we know this isnt so.
Although the bible does not always mention VERBATIM that unbelievers are in the midst of tongue speakers, We have to assume by order of scripture that there are. For instance, in Acts 10: 45 Lets read "While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word.
And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost". For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. THEY who heard were a household of ITALIAN Gentiles and Cornelius , THEM was the apostles. The apostles spoke tongues to the Italians. Even though IT seems apparent by the way it SOUNDS that those who recieved Christ spoke in tongues. BUT you must consider ALL INFORMATION pertaining to the situation. Dont twist what you read to make it say something it isnt.
Peter and John were sent to Cornelius a Samaritan Soldier who was a gentile to receive the Holy Ghost, THERE WERE OTHERS IN THE PRESENCE OF THESE THREE !!! According to Scripture, Cornelius was of the ITALIAN BAND and others were present , during the anointing of the Holy Ghost.
Acts 10: 25-27 And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him. But Peter took him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man. And as he talked with him, he went in, and found many that were come together. So here we have many others in the house of Cornelius. Who really knows what different languages were in that house but we should assume there was at least ITALIAN spoken, which wasnt a language spoken by the Apostles (without the aid of the apostolic gift of tongues).

While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. And they of the circumcision ( The Gentiles) which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. --Who was hearing who speak tongues???? The Italians where hearing the apostles speak in tonuges magnifying God. Hallejuha ! The Lords salvations was being directed to NON JEWS NOW ! YES, Charasmatics are also correct when they say the Holy Ghost fell on those who heard the WORD, but they who the HOLY GHOST fell ON, DID NOT SPEAK IN TONGUES. The bible does not say that those who heard spoke in tongues. What it does say is that the HOLY GHOST was being directed to the Gentiles NOW. This is the direct prophecy coming into play as spoken in Isaiah 28:11
Here is the explanation again, spoken so many times before. ITALIANS who did not speak the language of an apostle heard the gospel spoken to them in their own language.... Acts:2:8: And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born? Again it is proven here that the gifts of tongues were not only a sign to unbelievers but was a tool to propigate the gospel. ( how many times have you heard this already)? All 1st century tongue speaking is done in accordance to all of Gods rules for tongue speaking. Tongues as spoken today are claimed to be an intial sign of being filled with the Holy Ghost. The lesson we just learned exposes the misconception that charasmatics swear by, using scripture that they have misconstrued.

Acts:10:48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Interesting verse here,. If tongue speakers believe that tongues come after being saved ( The SECOND baptism ) like they claim , then that doctrine would contradict this scriputre because here it says that they were being baptised AFTER speaking in tongues. Charismatics say that tongues comes after being saved.

Take a break here. We will now study in detail how salvation was sent to man beyond Gods chosen people the Jews. You may wonder what the next few paragraphs have to do with tongues speaking...... just remain calm and read !

Peter's meeting with Cornelius basically changed the world. It was in this simple and straightforward message that the gospel message was released to the world. No corner of the earth was to be left out now! God had already called Paul the apostle to thrust the message forward. Here however we see what happened when the Word of God actually went out to the Gentiles. Instead of facing opposition or rejection, Peter was welcomed as an angel. Instead of becoming unholy, Peter and the others trembled at the power of God's Word. Peter basically summarized the effect of this message as, "Who dares stop God from saving the non-Jews!"
Signficant Points in Peter's Message -* Jesus’ home life in Galilee and baptism, “You know” shows that they in fact had heard about Jesus Christ. * God’s anointing of Jesus by Holy Spirit.Pay attention to this point. The same Spirit that anointed Jesus (Christ means anointed one) will in fact anoint them. God didn’t even wait for the message to be finished (10:44)! * Did good and healed those oppressed by the devil,God did these things through Jesus. It was God showing His power and love through Christ. * They testified that they witnessed all these things. Peter and others witnessed all this. They saw all of Christ’s life in Jerusalem and the surrounding areas. * They put Him to death by hanging Him on a cross .The Jews not only heard about Christ but in fact responsible for putting Him there. He died there. There is no possibility for the Swoon theory. Peter and others witnessed His death. * God raised Jesus up on the third day. God raised Jesus from the dead on the third day and had a number of people see Him alive and visible. He was no ghost or spirit. * They were among the chosen witnesses to see Him alive from the dead.No bragging allowed. Nor was Peter alone witnessing these things. * Jesus ate and drank with them after He arose from the dead
This shows that it was a bodily resurrection. Several heresies arose claiming that the flesh is evil (influence of Greek philosophy) and therefore stated that Jesus only ‘spiritually’ arose. Peter clearly says of Jesus that he ‘ate and drank.’ Jesus bodily arose from the dead.
* He ordered them to preach to the people. Peter finally catches on why he was there! God appointed him as one of the apostles to clearly declare what went on with Jesus Christ and what it all meant. * Forgiveness is granted to everyone who believes as is testified through all the prophets.
Again, we see that the Old testament is coming to his mind and sees that man is saved by faith in Christ rather than keeping the law Acts 10:34-44
Opening his mouth, Peter said: "I most certainly understand now that God is not one to show partiality, but in every nation the man who fears Him and does what is right is welcome to Him. The word which He sent to the sons of Israel, preaching peace through Jesus Christ (He is Lord of all)--you yourselves know the thing which took place throughout all Judea, starting from Galilee, after the baptism which John proclaimed. You know of Jesus of Nazareth, how God anointed Him with the Holy Spirit and with power, and how He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him.
We are witnesses of all the things He did both in the land of the Jews and in Jerusalem They also put Him to death by hanging Him on a cross. God raised Him up on the third day and granted that He become visible, not to all the people, but to witnesses who were chosen beforehand by God, that is, to us who ate and drank with Him after He arose from the dead. And He ordered us to preach to the people, and solemnly to testify that this is the One who has been appointed by God as Judge of the living and the dead. Of Him all the prophets bear witness that through His name everyone who believes in Him receives forgiveness of sins. While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who were listening to the message. It might be helpful to clarify your view of world events. See a great tsunami coming over the earth. It is not here yet, but it is surely coming. God has spoken. The world is passing away. We need to prioritize sending out rescue mission teams to these places warning them of the coming of God’s Great Judgment. We know that God is not going to judge the world by water next time but by fire. We only have so much time to catch the vision. Peter was slow in catching the meaning of these things, but God was patiently working with him. God will work with us too, but we should realize that through these two visions, God has already showed us the priority of reaching out to all the nations no matter what their customs are.

Peter’s puzzle
The vision did its job! Peter was puzzled. He lost confidence in his dogmatic interpretation of what should happen in the New Covenant period. God was teaching him how to live in light of a greater promise (see Romans 4 for more information). Do you believe in coincidences? This is not one of them! This is an answer to prayer. Most of the time when God answers prayer we are not looking for an answer and therefore miss the answer that God provides. In this case as he was asking God for an answer, the men called at the gate. The next time you ask for something, notice what happens when you are praying or immediately afterwards.
Spirit sent them; he is not to fear Peter needed even more directions. God gave them. He is never short a miracle. Miracles are not as uncommon as we think. Miracles are commonplace workings of God in our world. But arise, go downstairs, and accompany them with out misgivings; for I have sent them Myself. (Acts 2:20). Peter asks them for the details Peter was still unclear but his interest sure was piqued! He does not understand the significant implications of the vision yet. He soon will. Peter lodged them and went with them. Already he was willing to lodge them and care for them. The choice of God for these people meant that he had to accept them too even if they were not Jews nor kept Jewish customs. Changes are not easy. A cross-cultural missionary must accept a whole set of unfamiliar and sometimes repulsive situations, sounds, and foods. They adjust their lives because God wants them to, not because they like it.

Peter’s Visit to Caesarea (10:23-48)
Christian men from Joppa accompanied him
The next day they made that 30-mile walk up the coast to Caesarea. As they approached this distinctively Roman place, Peter no doubt asked himself many a time if he was doing the right thing. He went back again and again to the vision and timing of the vision. Relatives & friends waited with Cornelius -Cornelius wasn’t going to waste this special visit. If an angel had spoken to him, he got those that might be open to what message God might send to them. Already we read how he led his family in worship of the One True God. He also influenced friends. Verse 27 says that many people were there.
False worship rejected by Peter (10:26) Cornelius didn’t know what to do. Perhaps he sensed that Peter had something to do with this angelic visit. He fell to the ground in worship at Peter’s approach. Peter like John in Revelation rejected that worship and simply said, “Stand up; I too am just a man.” Peter’s explanation of the visit and vision (10:28-29) Peter starts by explaining the reason he is there at all. In other words, Peter as a Jew typically would not have at all associated with a foreigner or visit one. But he relates, God has shown me that I should not call any man unholy or unclean. That is why I came without even raising any objection when I was sent for. Peter is probably explaining the reason of his presence there to himself as much as to them. He probably still doesn’t know why he is there. He only knows God wants him there. We do see, however, that finally Peter understood the full meaning of his vision. What God had considered unlawful, in his perspective, has now changed. He cannot call any man holy or unholy by his background. Again, this is a powerful truth that should fully impact our lives. There is no room for prejudice. For example, have you ever wondered why we as New Testament Christians do not need to keep the Old Testament ceremonial laws? God is showing us that there is a greater covenant that we are to abide by. The Book of Hebrews does a great job contrasting the old and new.
Cornelius’ explanation of his request and vision (30-33)
Now Cornelius didn’t know what was happening either. He stood by relating the facts. He spoke about what happened when he was praying. An angel appeared and spoke to him. His prayer was answered. That is why he invited Peter to his house. He is expecting a message from God via Peter.
We should note that the only prayer that God would hear from a non-Christian is to be saved. God answers prayer by leading this person to one where he can hear the gospel and become a child of God.

Peter’s impromptu message (34-44)
Peter is getting the point. He is familiar with God giving him a message now (see earlier in Acts). Before talking about the historical facts that Christianity is founded upon, he first catches up on this whole ‘Jewish meet Gentile’ scene. He now sees, I most certain understand now that God is not one to show partiality, but in every nation the man who fears Him and does what is right, is welcome to Him. (10:34-35).
OK, here we go, back to the tongues study.....
Gift of Spirit on Gentiles (44-46)
An amazing thing happened after Peter briefly shared the gospel. The Holy Spirit fell upon all those who were listening to the message. The Holy Spirit is a special gift depicting God’s presence in a person’s life. If God chose to dwell in them, Peter and others then had to accept the Gentiles just as any other Jew that would believe. Peter described it like this, The gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out upon the Gentiles also (Acts 10:45). Cornelius and the others were speaking in different languages and exalting God. This is similar to the very outpouring upon the disciples in Acts 2. Many problems would later develop because the Judiastic believers were not willing to refrain from imposing their Judaism upon their fellow Gentile believers. Paul spoke strongly against them in the Book of Galatians.
Baptism of Cornelius and others (47-48) Peter was now to take the boldest step of all which he would later need to explain over and over again. It is one thing to see God do something but now he went forward and baptized them. He said it in such a way that we can sense his deep and rich conviction about the matter.
Surely no one can refuse the water for these to be baptized who have received the Holy Spirit just as we did, can he? (Acts 10:47). The gift of the Holy Spirit then is normally received after salvation. In this case God reversed the sequence in order to give clear proof to Peter and the church of their acceptance as God’s people. Peter would soon return and relate this incident to the others. God now is saving Gentiles. God is reaching out to the nations !
We can imagine a pile of Old Testament quotes came to Peter’s mind affirming God’s purpose of reaching to the nations. In 10:48 Peter ordered that they be baptized in the Name of Jesus Christ.
A Few Questions
What is the relationship between belief and anointing by the Spirit?
Baptismal regeneration teaches that a person is saved by water baptism. What do these verses say about baptismal regeneration?
Why do you think the Spirit came on them first?
Why was it important that they were still water baptized? How important is water baptism today?
Comments
Acts 2:38 clearly states that salvation comes prior to the gift of the Holy Spirit. Repentance and baptism stand for the salvation process while the ‘gift of the Holy Spirit’ is something they receive afterwards. So even though they were not through the whole process at this point, God showed them that they were really saved even before the baptism. We can see two reasons for this.
(1) Peter was not sure what to do. Baptizing Gentiles is a colossal step forward. God needed to instruct or lead him forward on what to do.
(2) God also had to convince the rest of the church that what happened here would be normal. That does not mean that all would first receive the Holy Spirit or speak in tongues. Not at all. The point is that the sequence was put out of order so that the onlookers could see what God was doing in their lives.
This of course does not mean we can neglect baptism. Peter did not neglect it. The point is that through inverting the process, we can see that baptism does not save a person (we know they are saved by their faith in Christ) nor does the keeping of the Law. Only faith in Christ saves. Baptism is still necessary though because it is demanded. Our greatest concern is for those supposed Christians who can be baptized but are not. Why aren’t they? Perhaps they are holding back in their faith.

44. And as Peter yet spake. God declareth now by a new miracle, that the doctrine of the gospel is common as well to the Gentiles as to the Jews. And this is an excellent seal of the calling of the Gentiles; because the Lord would never have vouchsafed to bestow upon the Gentiles the graces of his Spirit, unless it had been to declare that even they were adopted together into the society of the covenant. These gifts, mentioned by Luke, differ indeed from the grace of regeneration; and yet, undoubtedly, God did by this means seal both Peter's doctrine, and also their faith and godliness which heard him. He saith that they were all endowed with the Spirit, like as we saw before, that they came all encouraged to learn and obey.
This visible sign representeth unto us, as it were in a table, what an effectual instrument of God's power the preaching of the gospel is; for he poured out his Spirit as Peter spake, to the end he might show that he sendeth not teachers to that end, that they may beat the air with the vain sound of their voice, but that he may work mightily by their voice, and may quicken the same by the power of his Spirit, to the salvation of the godly. Thus doth Paul put the Galatians in mind, that they received the Holy Ghost by the hearing of faith; and in another place he saith that he is the minister of the Spirit, and not of the letter. The gift of the tongues, and other such like things, are ceased long ago in the Church; but the spirit of understanding and of regeneration is of force, and shall always be of force, which the Lord coupleth with the external preaching of the gospel, that he may keep us in reverence of his word, and may prevent the deadly dotings, wherein brain-sick fellows enwrap themselves, whilst that, forsaking the word, they invent an erroneous and wandering spirit. But it doth not, nor shall not, always so fall out, that all those which hear the word with their outward ears, do or shall also receive the Spirit; and the ministers do seldom light upon such hearers as Peter had, who are willing, with one consent, to follow God. Yet he bringeth to pass that all the elect feel in themselves the consent of the external word, and of the secret power of the Spirit.
45. The faithful were astonished. He calleth them faithful who were as yet possessed with a wicked error. So the Lord doth not by and by wipe away all clouds of ignorance from his, and yet they do not darken the praise of faith before God, because he pardoneth errors and doth vouchsafe to favor it, as if it were pure and plain. And yet it is a wonder, that seeing they knew that Peter was sent of God, they would now be amazed, as at some strange and new thing, because God giveth the grace of his Spirit to those to whom he would have Christ now preached; but the sudden change is the cause of this, because, whereas God until that day had separated the Gentiles from his people as strangers and aliens, he doth now favor them both alike, and lifteth them up into the like degree of honor. Although we be also taught by this example, how hard a matter it is for us to wind out ourselves out of our errors once conceived, especially when they are of any continuance.
46. For they heard them. He expresseth what gifts of the Spirit were poured out upon them, and therewithal he noteth the use; to wit, that they had variety of tongues given them, so that they did glorify God with many tongues. Also, it may be gathered out of this place, that the tongues were given them not only for necessity, seeing the gospel was to be preached to strangers and to men of another language, but also to be an ornament and worship to the gospel. But ambition did afterward corrupt this second use, forasmuch as many did translate that unto pomp and vain glory which they had received to set forth the dignity of the heavenly wisdom, as Paul doth sharply reprove this fault in the Corinthians. Therefore, no marvel if God took away that shortly after which he had given, and did not suffer the same to be corrupted with longer abuse.
47. Peter answered. Peter reasoneth from the thing to the sign; for, seeing that baptism is an addition or appurtenance of the spiritual grace, he which hath received the Spirit is also apt [fit] to receive baptism; and this is the (most) lawful order, that the minister admit those unto the receiving of the outward sign whom God hath testified to be his children by the mark and pledge of his Spirit; so that faith and doctrine are first. And whereas unlearned men infer thereupon that infants are not to be baptized, it is without all reason. I grant that those who are strangers from the Church must be taught before the sign of adoption be given them; but I say, that the children of the faithful which are born in the Church are from their mother's womb of the household of the kingdom of God. Yea, the argument which they use preposterously against us do I turn back [retort] upon themselves; for, seeing that God hath adopted the children of the faithful before they be born, I conclude thereupon that they are not to be defrauded of the outward sign; otherwise men shall presume to take that from them which God hath granted them. As touching the manifest grace of the Spirit, there is no absurdity therein, if it follow after baptism in them.
And as this testimony maketh nothing for maintenance of their error, so it doth strongly refute the error of the Papists, who tie the grace of the Spirit to the signs, and think that the same is fet [fetched] from heaven with enchantments, 2 as those witches did think that they did pull down the moon with their charms. But forasmuch as Luke saith that these had the Holy Ghost given them who were not as yet baptized, he showeth that the Spirit is not included in baptism. Lastly, we must note that the apostles were content with water alone when as they did baptize, and would to God this plainness had been retained amongst their posterity, and that they had not gathered here and there divers trifles, whereof baptism is filth in Popery. They think that the worthiness of baptism is adorned with oil, salt, spittle, wax-candles, whereas they are rather filthy pollutions which corrupt the pure and natural [genuine] institution of Christ.
48. And he commanded them to be baptized. It was not of necessity that baptism should be ministered by Peter's hand, as Paul doth likewise testify that he baptized few at Corinth, for other ministers might take this charge upon them. Whereas he saith, in the name of the Lord, it must not be restrained unto the form, as we have said in the third chapter; but because Christ is the proper scope of baptism, therefore are we said to be baptized in his name. When as Luke saith, last of all, that Peter was requested by Cornelius and his kinsmen that he would tarry a few days, he commendeth in them their desire to profit. They were, indeed, endued with the Holy Ghost; but they were not so come to the top, but that confirmation was as yet profitable for them. And, according to their example, so often as opportunity to profit offereth itself, we must use it diligently; and let us not swell with pride, which stoppeth the way before doctrine.

Acts:10:45-which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Spirit.For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify YAH. Then answered Peter,
The Hebrews were amazed that the Gentiles (Indo-Eurasians) had received the spirit! How did they know that they had received the spirit? Here is the answer: “For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify YAH” Now the question is this, how would they (Hebrews) know that they (Greeks) glorified YAH? They knew because they heard the Greeks glorify YAH in another tongue/language the HEBREW TONGUE! This was the SIGN that was given to show that the Greeks had received the spirit.
Again, the point is this. Whether it is prophesying or just speaking in tongues, it is very evident that others can understand what is being spoken.
Look again and consider. Paul was a believer, so why did the disciples speak to him in tongues at Ephesus? The answer is simple. It was a sign to show that the disciples had received the spirit. It was confirmed by them speaking in a tongue that Paul could understand. Peter was a believer, so why speak to him in tongues. It was a sign to show that the Greeks had received the spirit, as did the Hebrews on Pentecost. And It was validated by the fact that they (Hebrews) UNDERSTOOD the language that the Greeks spoke, this is how they new that they MAGNIFIED GOD! Now lets move on to our next scripture.


HERE IS yet Another indication that tongues have ceased. It is found in Acts chapter 8. The part of the chapter I am referring to; speaks about the ministry of Philip at Samaria. Philip was ordained by the Church at Jerusalem, (Acts 6:1-6). The Apostles laid hands upon Philip during his ordination. In Acts chapter 8, we read where the gifts were active with Philip. However, he was unable to pass these same gifts on to those who were present. Then, when the Apostles heard of the Samaritans entering the Church, they sent the Apostles Peter and John to Samaria. Once the Apostles arrived, they prayed and laid their hands on these new Church members so that they too received the gifts. Now then, lets add up something here- what would happen when the Apostles ministry ended? There may have remained people in Philip’s condition: able to have the gifts work through them but unable to pass them on those who entered the Church !! So then, when the ministry of the Apostles ended, the ability to pass the gifts on ended !. But as you have heard already, this isnt the only information backing up the claim that tongues have ceased.. It is interesting enough to mention this. Although tongues seemed to be able to be passed on to others from the apostles---- NOWHERE , - not one place in the bible is the gift of tongues spoking where there wasnt an apostle present, and nowhere in the bible is it stated that someone who had recieved the gift from the apostles passed it on to someone else !!! Wow, this stuff almost spooks me ! What in the world is going on in tongue speaking churches today?


Like in the church of Corinth, we're not told there was an apostle present continually at church. There might not have been. God said these certain gifts were subject to the prophets. So like the bible says, tongues were not just any tongues but these tongues spoke doctrine, and revelations. The apostles are prophets but not all prophets were apostles ! Now lets chew the fat of one of the charismatics favorite verses !
Forbid not to speak in tongues. 1Cor:14:39: Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues.

The first thing that will come to your mind is " how is he going to get around this plain and simple verse "? Is he going to contradict what the bible plainly says?
Truthfully and emphatically Im not going to. I stand by it one hundered percent. But before you take scripture and run wild with it, you must understand the who, what, when, wheres and whys of scripture. Misinterpretations are one errancy of understanding scripture but in this case YOU MUST NOT MISSAPPLY Scripture that is easily understood !
To explain more on this verse, let me first share a perfect example of scripture that is sometimes missapplied because some dont have the full knowledge of all applied scripture. Some scripture can throw you way off course if you dont take all scripture pertaining to a certain subect into context. Ive said this many times before !
2 Cor:6:14 says: Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness and what communion hath light with darkness? Wo, is God saying we cant fellowship with the unrighteous? We also could read Proverbs 13:20 Be with wise men and become wise. Be with evil men and become evil.
In Mark Chapter 2, Jesus ate and drank with sinners. Did Jesus become evil? Certainly not ! These scriptures are easy to understand but can be easily taking out of context ( Like forbid not to speak in tongues) If missapplied, these biblical truths would manifest themselves into Christian character and cause them to figuratively lock themselves in their houses. You can certainly become friends with unsaved sinners and even eat dinner with them but dont become associated with them and their lifestyles, or give them indication that you condone their sinful behavior. Paul had returned to Corinth; Corinth was in Greece, a metrocenter for trade and commerce, so the oppertunity to speak in tongues was obviously there. Paul returned to Corinth after he heard the Corinthians were misusing and missAPPLYING the gifts. This is evident by the strict and straightforward rules he stated concerning spiritual gifts, especially tongue speaking !!!
Beginning In 1 Corinthians 12:1 Paul said " now concerning spiritual gifts brethern ( he called them brothers so they would know he was not some outsider starting trouble) "I would have you NOT BE IGNORANT ". Then Paul got to the beef right away explainng that there were different gifts of the spirit and not all had the same gifts. In short he said that ALL PEOPLE could not speak in tongues ! In 1 Corinthians 12:10 . He said "To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:

In 1 Corinth 12:28: Again Paul said all can not speak in tongues. God has set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles?
Have all the gifts of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret?
It is evident that some in Corinth were ACTING like they were speaking in tongues. Here is the first evidence of church goers acting like they had a certain gift when in reality they didnt. THIS IS EXACTLY WHAT IS GOING ON TODAY !!! Then Paul indicates in the next chapter that some who REALLY had a certain gift were misusing their gift. 1 Corinthians 13, explains that if these gifts are misused, that is if the are used selfishly without LOVE they are good for nothing.
A very interesting verse to note is 1 Corinthians 13:4 Charity suffers long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,
The definition of Vaunteth is to speak boastfully of; brag about. --intr. 1. To speak boastfully; Speech of extravagant self-praise. With this in mind, it must be concluded that Paul meant those who posessed the gift of tongues should never give themself praise about having the gift !! They should never brag about it. Tongues speakers sure have an air of pride about themselves when yelling out mutterings in the church ! Remember pride is something God hates.

And more interesting to note that Paul says in just the next few verses in 1 Corinthians 13:8 : Love never fails: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. Paul was saying that Love would outlast those gifts so we should show love when displaying those temporary gifts. We should display something that would be eternal in contrast to something that would be temporary.
It is very interesting to see Gods chapter on Love right smack dab in the middle of his rules about spritual gifts. I think there is a meaning behind it !
Anyway continuing in scripture to 1 Corinthians 14, Paul says to follow after charity ( Love ) and desire spiritual gifts....,. but now he points out that he would rather Christians to desire to prophecy. Paul would rather we have the ability to preach Gods Word than speak in tongues ( OR as we WE KNOW THEM TO BE FOREIGN LANGUAGES ).
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. ( WE HAVE ALREADY STUDIED ON THIS)!!!! Paul is saying that he would rather for people to hear preaching of Gods Word in his own language than to hear someone speak to God in a language that he does not understand. Wow this is so simple. This is really simple stuff. How are so many messing this up....or why?

In First Corinth 14:3 Paul says : But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort. Those who have the gift of preaching Gods Word to men through speech they understand, builds their Christian character, comforts them and exhorts God in the process. This is the supreme ministry when the church comes together. In Corinthians 14:4: Paul says He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.
Easy enough, those who cant be understood, dont do the church as the body any good, but if they are understood it does the church good.
Continuing 1 Corinth 14:5 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 .... Here Paul is using a hyperbole ; A figure of speech in which exaggeration is used for emphasis or effect, as in I could sleep for a year or This book weighs a ton. Paul was saying " Gosh I wish yall could all speak in tongues but you cant because I just told you you cant all speak in tongues". Paul was trying his best with kindess to veer people who didnt posess the gift of tongues AWAY from tongue speaking while still laying down stict guidelines for them, and even trying to persuade them to something else by telling them that other spiritual gifts were of such more importance. (remember what I said about Paul not praying for tongues but only wishing they all could speak them??? )

Paul wanted to put control on tongue speaking , NOT TO STIFLE IT ALTOGETHER. Tongue speaking was still a gift to certain designated people; but if the gift was being used inappropriately and in its appropriatenes, it was to be forbidded. Authentic gifts used appropriately were not to be forbidded. God is sovereign, he as the right to exercise his gifts among men, but he doest not want his gifts being abused. These gifts were subject to those who had them 1Cor:14:32 so these gifts could be abused. That is why Paul gave explicit rules for tongue speaking because gifts could be used incorrectly. Now after all of Pauls commandments on tongue speaking , it would seem certain that those who spoke in tongues could be worried to point they would be afraid to use their gift of tongues. Thats why after Paul finished giving those rules, gave a command not to forbid tongue speaking, but only when tongue speaking met Gods standards !!!

When the church comes together it can be built up in marvelous ways. It can be such a strengthening thing to meet together, to encourage one another in our faith, to share in the exercise of spiritual gifts, to be taught by the mind of God, by the Spirit of God, through the Word of God, and to be comforted in times of trial and testing and pressure. This is the purpose for the church getting together. But whatever you do, do not let it become an endlessly confusing ministry, misrepresentative of the character of God and misrepresenting Gods will. Remember the TIME at which all this was spoking.... was at a time BEFORE the gift of tongues ceased. Do not take scripture out of context !

I would add that there was conflict and division among the brethren at Corinth. There seemed to be a competition over whose spiritual gift was the best, tongue speaking in Corinth seemed to have highest priority. So, Paul said that tongues were the " Least of the gifts" and raised other gifts to a highter status, but then fearing an over reaction, commanded them not to forbid speaking in tongues.
Ok, we are on a roll now ! Lets keep rolling !
Do any charasmatics still think they possess charasmatic gifts given in Mark 16? Heres one more gift that the apostles had that charasmatics of today dont ...
Jn:14:26: But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. Do any charasmatic have the ability to repeat, from memory everything that was spoken by God from one end of the bible to the other ? Does anyone know all that was taught by God? John 21:25 will give you some idea of what a challenge that would be.
The Holy Spirit was giving to us as a comforter and a vehicle to equip mankind for ministry, and living a Holy life. Not for running around in Church speaking strange sounds that noone understands.

Here are some neat basic facts about tongues that NOONE should not deny !
No one in the Bible was ever coached or taught how to speak in tongues.
People back then who spoke in tongues didnt have to be told of the tongues phenomona.
Today there isnt record of a person speaking in tongues who wasnt told of it beforehand.

The bible makes no mention of a woman speaking in tongues ! NEITHER IS THERE A RECORD IN THE BIBLE THAT JESUS SPOKE IN TONGUES !! IN FACT WHEN THE HOLY SPIRIT FELL ON JESUS AFTER HIS WATER BAPTISM, THE HOLY SPIRIT IS TO SAID HAVE COME DOWN LIKE A DOVE, GENTLE AND LOVING. NOT LIKE THE CHARISMATICS WOULD PLAY OUT, SPEAKING IN TONGUES, SHOUTING AND FLOPPING ON THE GROUND LIKE A FISH, OR SIMPLY PASSING OUT ON THE FLOOR. THESE TYPES OF ACTIONS REPRESENT DEMON POSSESSION SPOKING IN THE BIBLE !

Biblical tongues were understood languages - modern tongues are not.
2. Biblical tongues were a sign to unbelievers - modern tongues are spoken in the congregation, most of them believers already.
3. Biblical tongues ceased in 70 AD - the modern tongues movement did not begin until 1900.
4. Biblical tongues were a supernatural gift that came upon people unexpectedly - modern tongues are a learned behavior. Even unbelievers can learn to do it.
5. In the past, Biblical tongues were found only within the Christian church - Today, modern day tongues are also found in pagan religions, cults, and the occult.

If Charamastics claim tongues are an initial sign or evidence of the Holy Ghost, than why do tongue speakers speak in tongues over and over and over?
Mt:16:4 says A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign.-- Tongues werent only a sign in the 1st century church , but they were also a tool to be used for propigating the gospel. Today they are only used as a sign !!!
All the way back In Genesis 10:5 we see that the word "tongue" is not referring to the instrument that is in the mouth, or any type of unstructured gibberish, but it is referring to the language of that instrument. Isaiah 66:18, Daniel 1:4, & Acts 2:8-11 support this claim

Just ask yourself, "is God still giving scripture through the prophets and apostles today? IS the bible STILL incomplete? Is the church still in its infancy?
HAS God still not revealed his full will to mankind? Prophecies have ended, ---- supernatural revealing of knowledge has vanished------- and Tongues have ceased, . The Word of God is Perfectly COMPLETE and hopefully the truth about tongue speaking has been completely revealed as I understand God would want it to be.

A prophecy that was fulfilled; 1Corinthians 14:21 In the law it is written, With men of other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith God. WOW! In the law it is written, “ With men of other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people”. God said that he would speak to his people with other tongues (languages). Paul quoted this from the book of Isaiah and called it the law! Did Christendom miss this piece? Why is Paul referring to a prophetic statement made 712 years before the birth of Yahshua the Messiah? God knew then that his people would be scattered and that he would have to speak to them in another language (tongue) so that they would understand how to serve him.
Ask yourself a question? Why didn’t Noah, Abraham, Moses, Joshua, Jeremiah, Isaiah, Ezekiel and David speak in tongues in the Old Testament? Let me tell you why. There was no need to speak to the children of Israel in tongues, because they had not yet been scattered to other lands where they were raised speaking in foreign languages !
However, after the scattering, and once Gods people had learned a different language because of the country or region they were scattered in, God had to raise up teachers and witnesses who could receive the gift of the spirit and speak to his people in a language that they would understand, so they could be edified and God glorified! Now notice again the reference we use to justify this statement with our commentary in brackets:
Acts 2:5-11 And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. [They dwelled under every nation under heaven because they had been scattered in 721 BCE and 606 BCE by the Assyrians and Chaldeans and other nations whom God brought against the children of Israel] 2:6 Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language.[Again, these people who where Hebrew Israelites whom had been scattered are hearing the word of God in their own language] 2:7 And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans? [The Galilaeans where Hebrews who would have spoken Hebrew and or Aramaic, these visiting Hebrews found it strange that they would have the ability to speak their tongues also] 2:8 And how hear we every man in our own TONGUE, wherein we were born? 2:9 Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, 2:10 Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, 2:11 Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of Elohim.[ The scriptures has just confirmed our statement. God said with stammering lips and ANOTHER TONGUE SHALL HE SPEAK UNTO THESE PEOPLE!] Isaiah 28:11 For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people. Go to this link for 2cd part... https://pbase.com/kippercat/image/174594485