The Biblical Purpose and Function of Speaking in Tongues

I. Tongues for Personal Edification

According to the scriptures, “A person who speaks in tongues is strengthened personally, but one who speaks a word of prophecy strengthens the entire church.” (1 Corinthians 14:4 NLT).

The draft outlines the purpose of edification through the following points:

  • Building godly traits
  • Divine insight of God's word.
  • Wisdom to know right from wrong.
  • Prays for our needs.
  • Spiritual authority grows
  • Faith built up - “But you, dear friends, must build each other up in your most holy faith, pray in the power of the Holy Spirit,” (Jude 1:20 NLT).
  • Develops our character.

II. Tongues for Interpretation

The practice of speaking in tongues is also intended for the collective body when combined with interpretation: “I wish you could all speak in tongues, but even more I wish you could all prophesy. For prophecy is greater than speaking in tongues, unless someone interprets what you are saying so that the whole church will be strengthened.” (1 Corinthians 14:5 NLT).

III. Tongues of Deep Intercessional Groaning

Another profound aspect is Tongues of deep intercessional groaning. Scripture explains that “the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words.” (Romans 8:26 NLT).

IV. Tongues as a Sign to the Unbeliever

Finally, the draft identifies Tongues as a sign to the unbeliever. The Bible notes: “So you see that speaking in tongues is a sign, not for believers, but for unbelievers. Prophecy, however, is for the benefit of believers, not unbelievers.” (1 Corinthians 14:22 NLT). Furthermore, “These miraculous signs will accompany those who believe: They will cast out demons in my name, and they will speak in new languages.” (Mark 16:17 NLT).

Summary of Scriptural Functions

The following data categorizes the functions of tongues mentioned in the material:

  • Personal Strengthening: 1 Corinthians 14:4 - Strengthening the individual believer and developing character.
  • Corporate Strengthening: 1 Corinthians 14:5 - Requires interpretation to strengthen the whole church.
  • Divine Intercession: Romans 8:26 - The Holy Spirit praying through us with groanings.
  • Sign for Unbelievers: 1 Corinthians 14:22 & Mark 16:17 - A miraculous sign accompanying those who believe.