Where is Speaking in Tongues in the Bible?

Did you know that we find three specific contexts where we find speaking in tongues in the Bible? Each of these three contexts in the Bible shows us expressions of speaking in tongues that will represent a unique purpose. The Bible gives us three different contexts for speaking in tongues. These demonstrate and explain the reason why the Holy Spirit is so eager to give disciples of Jesus Christ the spiritual gift of tongues.

Use One: Speaking in Tongues— Mission Outreach

In the fulfillment of the Great Commission, there will be powerful expressions of the Holy Spirit and gifts given by the Holy Spirit. As seen in Mark 16:14-18, Jesus said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation... And these signs will accompany those who believe; In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues.” Jesus included speaking in tongues as a valid manifestation of the Holy Spirit. He also clearly put these verses in the context of being able to fulfill the Great Commission. This is the context we need to understand all the gifts of the Holy Spirit, including speaking in tongues. The gifts are the power tools needed for making disciples, building the Church, and advancing the gospel.

Use Two: Speaking in Tongues— Empowerment

We find the three explicit occasions in the Bible when the Holy Spirit comes upon them in power from on high and gives His people tongues. The evidence of the Holy Spirit coming upon the first Christians in fulfilling Acts 1:4–8 can include speaking in tongues, healing the sick, and casting out demons. These instances of empowerment are recorded as follows:

At Pentecost: “All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.” (Acts 2:3-4).
The gospel goes to the Gentiles: “The Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message... for they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God.” (Acts 10:44-47).
On the Disciples at Ephesus: When Paul arrived at Ephesus, he found some disciples, and when he placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied. (Acts 19:1-7).

These are a few of the expressions of His power that take place as we have the Holy Spirit upon us to live the resurrected life in Christ.

Use Three: Speaking in Tongues— Building the Church

The third context for speaking in tongues is for building the church. In 1 Corinthians 12 and 14, Paul includes speaking in tongues as one of the manifestations of the Spirit. Paul explains: “Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good... to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues.” (1 Corinthians 12:7-10). Paul also instructions the church: “I would like every one of you to speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless someone interprets, so that the church may be edified.” (1 Corinthians 14:5). This gift is given for the purpose of the common good and building the body of Christ.

Summary of Scriptural Contexts

Mission Outreach: Mark 16:17 — Part of the Great Commission to all creation.
Empowerment: Acts 2, 10, 19 — The Holy Spirit coming upon believers in power.
Building the Church: 1 Corinthians 12 & 14 — Spiritual gifts for edification and the common good.