Speaking in Tongues---Should every be able to do it?

ZapMami · Dec 15, 2011

Speaking in Tongues---Should every1 be able to do it?

I was raised baptist....and I remember being told that only certain people had the gift of speaking in tongues and some people have the gift of interpretation.

I now attend a non-denominational church which is a mega church in the DMV area that I really like but one thing is bothering me.....

Baptism by the Holy Spirit.
They keep saying that speaking in tongues is evidence of the holy spirit. That all Christians should pray in tongues cause GOd understands it even when you don't. Like for instance...have you ever went to pray and you just didn't know what to say but you know you needed God to step in, they would say this is the best time to pray in tongues because even when you don't know what to ask for the holy spirit does. Does that make sense?

In fact when I got saved there part of the process is them praying for you, you accept Jesus as your savior and then they ask you to speak in tongues...they claim it should come naturally. All the other people in the room who got saved and joined the church at the same time I did just started speaking in tongues when we got to that part. I'm standing there waiting for these foreign words "the holy language" to start pouring from my mouth, but nothing happened. I standing there like WTF these people are faking they are just making noises. I decided that I didn't want to go there anymore. I stopped for a while cause it was bothering me so much, but I love the pastor, his style of teaching and I've learned so much.

I really like the church, the sermons are on point. But it bothers me that I can't speak in tongues and I feel like all these other members are faking it. And then sometimes I think okay if they aren't faking do I not have a connection like they do with God. Why can't this holy spirit thing fall on me?

How do you feel about speaking in tongues? What type of church do you attend and what have you learned about it?

lwilliams1922 · Dec 15, 2011

Subscribing....
I was raised in church but still feel I missed that class.

chelseatiara · Dec 15, 2011

Nope everyone is given different gifts

1 Corinthians 12

New International Version (NIV)

1 Corinthians 12
Concerning Spiritual Gifts
1 Now about the gifts of the Spirit, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed. 2 You know that when you were pagans, somehow or other you were influenced and led astray to mute idols. 3 Therefore I want you to know that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, “Jesus be cursed,” and no one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit.

4 There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. 5 There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. 6 There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.

7 Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. 8 To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, 10 to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues,[a] and to still another the interpretation of tongues. 11 All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.

LucieLoo12 · Dec 15, 2011

I speak in tongues and it is not just for certain christians...its for all who receive the Holy Ghost. All through the book of Acts EVERYONE that received the Holy Ghost spoke in tongues. People get confused with the unknown tongue and the gift of tongues. The unknown tongue is our prayer language which no man can understand but God. The gift of tongues is the interpretation of tongues ,which everyone dont have. I will elaborate more with scripture .....i will be back ........

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ZapMami · Dec 15, 2011

Thanks Chelsea that makes me feel alot better.

So do you think these people are faking it or they believe so much that everybody can do it that they just start making noises thinking thats what it is and that it's connecting them to GOD? I mean it's so weird to me that no matter how hard I try to speak in tongues I can't do it.

I also notice that alot of them seem to be speaking a similar language. I mean it sounds the same to me. All some version of "OH Run Ta Shun a Bop to Lah! RRRah Bop to Shak" I mean why all the rolling R's, tons of syllables and the extra emphasis on them. Lol..I mean I'm laughing cause it's ridiculous to me. It's like they hear someone else do it and go home and practice making similar sounds.

I do believe some people can, but its so hard for me to believe that every one can do this.

I'm going to have to do some more research.

Thanks Alicia. My church also refers to Acts a lot. So am I a bad person if I don't speak in tongues and what type of church do you attend. Do I have to speak in tongues to be saved?

chelseatiara · Dec 16, 2011

ZapMami said:
Thanks Chelsea that makes me feel alot better.

So do you think these people are faking it or they believe so much that everybody can do it that they just start making noises thinking thats what it is and that it's connecting them to GOD? I mean it's so weird to me that no matter how hard I try to speak in tongues I can't do it.

I also notice that alot of them seem to be speaking a similar language. I mean it sounds the same to me. All some version of "OH Run Ta Shun a Bop to Lah! RRRah Bop to Shak" I mean why all the rolling R's, tons of syllables and the extra emphasis on them. Lol..I mean I'm laughing cause it's ridiculous to me. It's like they hear someone else do it and go home and practice making similar sounds.

I do believe some people can, but its so hard for me to believe that every one can do this.

I'm going to have to do some more research.

Thanks Alicia. My church also refers to Acts a lot. So am I a bad person if I don't speak in tongues and what type of church do you attend. Do I have to speak in tongues to be saved?

Black
No Just accept Jesus as the Son of God and your Savior,etc.

Red
I went to a church where they said if you couldnt speak in tongues it was your fault for not trying hard enough. :nono:

I don't think everyone is faking but I do think most people's heart is in the right place. Please continue your research..

delitefulmane · Dec 16, 2011

OP I understand your confusion but take this time to read it for yourself and let the Holy Spirit reveal this to you. I would suggest that you grab a bible with a "clear" English interpretation of the bible that you will be able to understand (i.e. not in Old English as King James is written. A lot of people find this language confusing in itself) and read
1 Corinthians CHAPTER 14. Read what Paul tells the people of Corinth about the gift of tongues. I pray that your eyes will be opened to what the Word says.

The bible tells us that "All scripture is given by the inspiration of God." It is His word. Let it speak to your heart.
HTH

LucieLoo12 · Dec 16, 2011

ZapMami,

Sorry I didnt elaborate on the post more last night, I was falling asleep as I was typing my first post, but to answer your questions:

How do you feel about speaking in tongues? What type of church do you attend and what have you learned about it?

I also tend a non-denominational church as well..What I have learned about speaking in tongues is this..

1). It is a sign of the believer
Mark 16 v17-18
And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;
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.

2). It is a prayer language between you and God, and no man can understand it
1 Corinthians 14 v2
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.

1st Corinthians 14v14
For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful.

3). It prays for things that we dont know what to pray for, and it prays for our infirmities(weaknesses)
Romans 8 v 26-27
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.
And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.

Why can't this holy spirit thing fall on me?

When I was seeking for the Baptism of the Holy Ghost, I didnt get it immediately, it took me months to get it. I would tarry and tarry at the altar, but nothing would happen.. It would discourage me at times, but I kept coming because I remembered the scripture
Acts 2 V 38

Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

It said SHALL, so I knew it was a promise to me...I knew God couldnt lie.So one night I was at a prayer shut-in and I began to cry out to God..I had been on a 3day fast, I was desperate because I knew I needed the Spirit of God, it was a necessity for my salavtion. So I cried out to God and I remembered saying "God, give me your Spirit, I need it God, I need it"..well I didnt get at the moment, but when I began to say "God your holy, God you've been so good to me,You're worthy" thats when it feel on me, and I began to speak in tongues immediately. But God taught me something in that, He showed me that I dont have to beg for anything, but just simply acknowledge Him for who He was and He would do the rest.I believe your mindset is wrong about the Holy Ghost, its not just something that makes you speak in tongues, but its a tool to help you in your walk with God..It teaches you about the nature of God and how to please God.People refer to the Holy Ghost as something that makes you jump and down and dance and shout, but its sooooo much more than that..Its our 'comforter' as Jesus says in John 15. It's the SAME spirit that Jesus had in Him. So when you are at the altar seeking for it(or whereever you are), dont have your mind on just the "tongues", because its not all about that, but its your "comforter". We have people in my church that it took them 2,4,5 years to get it...but they got it because it was a promise.The worse things to do is compare yourself to anyone, because everyone's course and calling isnt the same.

Acts 5v32
And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.

I am not saying you dont obey God, because of course I dont know anything about you. But remember that if you are living your life in obedience to God you will get it...when? I dont know, I'm not God...but you will get it..

Tongues is for every believer, but alot of times people speak against it because they dont understand it. 95% of people who say tongues isnt real or its not for everyone...have never spoke in tongues. But EVERY believer at my church speaks in tongues, so God just decided to give every member at my church the gift of tongues??
and not just at my church, but others I have went to. the scripture said in Romans 8 that the spirit prays for our weaknesses and things we dont know to pray for. So God just want certain people to pray for their weaknesses???? Wouldnt He want the Spirit praying for everyone's weaknesses?

I heard testimonies over and over again of people who had the Holy Ghost
and didnt even know it. Alot of Pastors dont teach on this, so alot of people dont know about tongues. but one lady said she was praying one night then all of a sudden she thought she began to stutter. She said she thought she was stammering over her words or couldnt get them out. It would continue to happen, she thought it was devil.So she would stop praying.But it turned out that she was speaking in tongues.God allowed her to meet someone who began to teach her about it
After you receive the Baptism of the Holy Ghost, just remember its not about just the tongues and enforce this over and over because its sooooo important...The bible says those that are led by the spirit of God are the sons of God, it dont says those who have the spirit are the sons of God but its those who are LED by it.

Now as far as the people at your church are they faking? I dont know and I will not speak against them. But you can't worry about them, you gotta be focused on you and your relationship with God.I hoped this help, if you have any questions please let me know..I know this can be a touchy subject...

FlyyBohemian · Dec 16, 2011

Tongues don't take you to heaven. Seek a deeper relationship with Christ and the Lord will give you spiritual gifts as he pleases.

SvelteVelvet · Dec 16, 2011

I speak in tongues and I look at is a my prayer language, going behind the veil and having a personal talk with God spirit to spirit. It usually happens in my prayer closet which is my bedroom and its happened in other spiritually heightened circumstances. I started after my spiritual baptism. The feeling I have after is always amazing peace and fulfillment.

Laela · Dec 16, 2011

OP, if it's one thing about God, He cannot be found if we don't seek Him for ourselves.

I pray you read the suggested Scriptures and ask God to help you understand; (and I believe that you will)... the answer for you is buried in the Word. It's YOUR answer directly from God and it's not for anyone else. Can you believe that?

Prudent1 · Dec 16, 2011

ZapMami,

FlyyBohemian said:
Tongues don't take you to heaven. Seek a deeper relationship with Christ and the Lord will give you spiritual gifts as he pleases.

The bible says b/c we like God are tri-part beings our spirits (like His Spirit) are knowledgeable of spiritual things in a way we cannot be if relying on our brains alone. Sorry, I can't remember the scripture right now :spinning:

.
That's right :yep:

. They don't. What they do do is unlock unbelievable POWER that you will not have otherwise here on this earth :grin:

. We need every advantage possible. This thing gets uglier and uglier as time progresses. I don't like settling. :look:

IA with every single word of the post below but am cropping in the interest of saving space.

Alicialynn86 said:
@ZapMami,
How do you feel about speaking in tongues? What type of church do you attend and what have you learned about it?

I also tend a non-denominational church as well..What I have learned about speaking in tongues is this..

Why can't this holy spirit thing fall on me?

When I was seeking for the Baptism of the Holy Ghost, I didnt get it immediately, it took me months to get it. It would discourage me at times, but I kept coming because I remembered the scripture
For me it was the passages that reminded me God is no respector of persons.

I am not saying you dont obey God, because of course I dont know anything about you. But remember that if you are living your life in obedience to God you will get it...

There are seasons for everything. A fellow believer called me one day with a word from God:heart2:. She reminded me of this. I had several experiences where errbody around me (including children) were speaking and being filled but not ol' Prudent1. I never doubted God b/c I was fortunate to grow up around several Spirit filled family members from all over the country. So, I knew this experience was real. Me personally, I was afraid of the unknown. Afraid of being what I thought of as 'out of control' of myself (after all I was doing such an outstanding job of doin' me). Afraid of how ppl might look at me differently. Afraid of what God might ask me to give up if I could hear him better for myself and not have the excuse of not being able to do so. Yep, I wanted to test the waters with my toe but not dive in. I had some heart issues that kept me from receiving. I knew it was me not Him.
Tongues is for every believer, but alot of times people speak against it because they dont understand it. 95% of people who say tongues isnt real or its not for everyone...have never spoke in tongues.

I heard testimonies over and over again of people who had the Holy Ghost
and didnt even know it. Alot of Pastors dont teach on this, so alot of people dont know about tongues. but one lady said she was praying one night then all of a sudden she thought she began to stutter. She said she thought she was stammering over her words or couldnt get them out. It would continue to happen, she thought it was devil.So she would stop praying.But it turned out that she was speaking in tongues.God allowed her to meet someone who began to teach her about it- OP this is almost exactly what happened to my Grandma and one of my Aunties.

Now as far as the people at your church are they faking? I dont know and I will not speak against them. But you can't worry about them, you gotta be focused on you and your relationship with God.

OP, it sounds like you are being taught correctly by your pastor. If this was one of those you must speak now or you're going to 'hayle' type places I would say RUN!!

ZapMami said:
I'm standing there waiting for these foreign words "the holy language" to start pouring from my mouth, but nothing happened. I standing there like WTFerplexed...

I really like the church, the sermons are on point. But it bothers me that I can't speak in tongues and I feel like all these other members are faking it. And then sometimes I think okay if they aren't faking do I not have a connection like they do with God. Why can't this holy spirit thing fall on me?

[\QUOTE]

As someone else has stated, this Christian journey has times where we intersect/ intermingle (fellowship) with each other but, like thumb prints, no two journeys are alike. One of the simplest yet most effective tools the enemy uses on believers is comparison. Women especially seem to be prone to this tacticerplexed. You cannot compare your life to the lives of others. Trust you will end up doubtful and untrusting towards God.

ZapMami said:

Thanks Chelsea that makes me feel alot better.

So do you think these people are faking it or they believe so much that everybody can do it that they just start making noises thinking thats what it is and that it's connecting them to GOD? I mean it's so weird to me that no matter how hard I try to speak in tongues I can't do it.

I also notice that alot of them seem to be speaking a similar language. I mean it sounds the same to me. All some version of "OH Run Ta Shun a Bop to Lah! RRRah Bop to Shak" I mean why all the rolling R's, tons of syllables and the extra emphasis on them. Lol..I mean I'm laughing cause it's ridiculous to me. It's like they hear someone else do it and go home and practice making similar sounds.

I do believe some people can, but its so hard for me to believe that every one can do this.

I'm going to have to do some more research.

Thanks Alicia. My church also refers to Acts a lot. So am I a bad person if I don't speak in tongues and what type of church do you attend. Do I have to speak in tongues to be saved?

Click to expand...

You don't have to try hard to receive anything from God. He gives freely!
Ab-so-lute-ly, po-si-tive-ly you are not a bad person!! There is nothing wrong with you! You do not have to speak in tongues to enter into heaven no more than you have to pay tithes to do so. You do need to know that failing to do certain things or in this case to accept something Jesus wants you to have, will keep you from living a FULL life while you are here in your earthly body. You will struggle in some areas needlessly though. It's like this. Two groups of ppl decide to build a house. One group uses primitive tools. The other opts for modern day power tools. Both groups can complete the task but undoubtly one will likely not have as strenuous a time doing so.
This passage from Heb. 11:6 also helped me during that time-
6 And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.
HTH

nathansgirl1908 · Dec 16, 2011

Re: Speaking in Tongues---Should every1 be able to do it?

ZapMami said:
And then sometimes I think okay if they aren't faking do I not have a connection like they do with God.

Stop right there. :yep:

I think that's the biggest misconception about tongues. And some people like to use that to make others feel what you stated: that they don't have a connection like they do with God. The Word says it best when it comes to tongues. Not everyone has the same spiritual gifts. People need to have different spiritual gifts so that when they all come together, they work together for the kingdom.

Not to mention that my understanding of tongues is that you can't command someone to speak in tongues on cue.

nathansgirl1908 · Dec 16, 2011

I have to be honest and say that I don't believe this is completely accurate.

And whether you intended to or not, your statements carried with them the misconception that I spoke about: that you have to have a certain type of relationship with God in order to speak in tongues. But what you have said is not biblically sound in my opinion. As I stated in an earlier post, the Word is clear that everyone has different gifts. Your post appears to suggest that ALL believers will receive this gift which would contradict what the Word says.

Alicialynn86 said:
ZapMami,

Sorry I didnt elaborate on the post more last night, I was falling asleep as I was typing my first post, but to answer your questions:

How do you feel about speaking in tongues? What type of church do you attend and what have you learned about it?

I also tend a non-denominational church as well..What I have learned about speaking in tongues is this..

1). It is a sign of the believer
Mark 16 v17-18
And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;
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.

2). It is a prayer language between you and God, and no man can understand it
1 Corinthians 14 v2
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.

1st Corinthians 14v14
For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful.

3). It prays for things that we dont know what to pray for, and it prays for our infirmities(weaknesses)
Romans 8 v 26-27
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.
And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.

Why can't this holy spirit thing fall on me?

When I was seeking for the Baptism of the Holy Ghost, I didnt get it immediately, it took me months to get it. I would tarry and tarry at the altar, but nothing would happen.. It would discourage me at times, but I kept coming because I remembered the scripture
Acts 2 V 38

Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

It said SHALL, so I knew it was a promise to me...I knew God couldnt lie.So one night I was at a prayer shut-in and I began to cry out to God..I had been on a 3day fast, I was desperate because I knew I needed the Spirit of God, it was a necessity for my salavtion. So I cried out to God and I remembered saying "God, give me your Spirit, I need it God, I need it"..well I didnt get at the moment, but when I began to say "God your holy, God you've been so good to me,You're worthy" thats when it feel on me, and I began to speak in tongues immediately. But God taught me something in that, He showed me that I dont have to beg for anything, but just simply acknowledge Him for who He was and He would do the rest.I believe your mindset is wrong about the Holy Ghost, its not just something that makes you speak in tongues, but its a tool to help you in your walk with God..It teaches you about the nature of God and how to please God.People refer to the Holy Ghost as something that makes you jump and down and dance and shout, but its sooooo much more than that..Its our 'comforter' as Jesus says in John 15. It's the SAME spirit that Jesus had in Him. So when you are at the altar seeking for it(or whereever you are), dont have your mind on just the "tongues", because its not all about that, but its your "comforter". We have people in my church that it took them 2,4,5 years to get it...but they got it because it was a promise.The worse things to do is compare yourself to anyone, because everyone's course and calling isnt the same.

Acts 5v32
And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.

I am not saying you dont obey God, because of course I dont know anything about you. But remember that if you are living your life in obedience to God you will get it...when? I dont know, I'm not God...but you will get it..

Tongues is for every believer, but alot of times people speak against it because they dont understand it. 95% of people who say tongues isnt real or its not for everyone...have never spoke in tongues. But EVERY believer at my church speaks in tongues, so God just decided to give every member at my church the gift of tongues??
and not just at my church, but others I have went to. the scripture said in Romans 8 that the spirit prays for our weaknesses and things we dont know to pray for. So God just want certain people to pray for their weaknesses???? Wouldnt He want the Spirit praying for everyone's weaknesses?

I heard testimonies over and over again of people who had the Holy Ghost
and didnt even know it. Alot of Pastors dont teach on this, so alot of people dont know about tongues. but one lady said she was praying one night then all of a sudden she thought she began to stutter. She said she thought she was stammering over her words or couldnt get them out. It would continue to happen, she thought it was devil.So she would stop praying.But it turned out that she was speaking in tongues.God allowed her to meet someone who began to teach her about it
After you receive the Baptism of the Holy Ghost, just remember its not about just the tongues and enforce this over and over because its sooooo important...The bible says those that are led by the spirit of God are the sons of God, it dont says those who have the spirit are the sons of God but its those who are LED by it.

Now as far as the people at your church are they faking? I dont know and I will not speak against them. But you can't worry about them, you gotta be focused on you and your relationship with God.I hoped this help, if you have any questions please let me know..I know this can be a touchy subject...

nathansgirl1908 · Dec 16, 2011

ZapMami said:
I also notice that alot of them seem to be speaking a similar language. I mean it sounds the same to me. All some version of "OH Run Ta Shun a Bop to Lah! RRRah Bop to Shak" I mean why all the rolling R's, tons of syllables and the extra emphasis on them. Lol..I mean I'm laughing cause it's ridiculous to me. It's like they hear someone else do it and go home and practice making similar sounds.

Indeed in the "suspect" situations, this has been my experience. I also witnessed a group where everyone was uttering the same syllables over and over: ummm ba ba ba ba ba." Literally. The one time I've heard tongues it really did sound like a language. She wasn't forcing it. It just came. she wasn't shouting it all over the place. She was actually pretty low key with it but I could hear her because I was close by and she was praying over people.

Prudent1 · Dec 16, 2011

nathansgirl1908 said:
Indeed in the "suspect" situations, this has been my experience. I also witnessed a group where everyone was uttering the same syllables over and over: ummm ba ba ba ba ba." Literally. The one time I've heard tongues it really did sound like a language. She wasn't forcing it. It just came. she wasn't shouting it all over the place. She was actually pretty low key with it but I could hear her because I was close by and she was praying over people.

There has been significant research where ppl were recorded speaking in tongues (now remember there are tongues as in other languages and unknown tongues known only to your spirit and God :yep:

). Then language experts were brought in (non-Christian, just linguistics professionals)to interpret/ determine the validity of the words being spoken. In each case the experts determined and in many case interpreted the words being spoken. Some were languages not spoken for the past several hundred years :spinning:

. Each time the ppl were glorifying, praising, or magnifying God. Sid Roth did a show on a recent episode. You may be able to google his show- It's Supernatural or google the actual research effort and it's findings. Just make sure you're not having a Gideon experience :lol:

.

ZapMami · Dec 16, 2011

Re: Speaking in Tongues---Should every1 be able to do it?

nathansgirl1908 said:
Stop right there. I think that's the biggest misconception about tongues. And some people like to use that to make others feel what you stated: that they don't have a connection like they do with God. The Word says it best when it comes to tongues. Not everyone has the same spiritual gifts. People need to have different spiritual gifts so that when they all come together, they work together for the kingdom.

Not to mention that my understanding of tongues is that you can't command someone to speak in tongues on cue.

At the end of church one time the pastor says turn to your neighbor and ask them if they are saved. So the guy beside me turns to me and says "Sistah are you saved and filled with the holy ghost?" I nod my head yes and he demands "Let me hear you speak in tongues." I was caught off guard. He looked at me and said. "I'm serious. Let me hear you." I mean I hurt me that he implied that I wasn't saved because i couldnt. I always thought you can't command on cue....but apparently not. This guy was serious. When I didn't comply he shook his head at me like he was disgusted or something.

Anyway, I'm more confused than ever. But thank you to those who replied. You gave me some things to consider.

LucieLoo12 · Dec 17, 2011

Please dont let that bad experience affect you. That man had no wisdom or understanding. U cannot make yourself speak in tongues, its done by the Spirit. Im sorry u had to experience that

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Shimmie · Dec 17, 2011

Re: Speaking in Tongues---Should every1 be able to do it?

ZapMami said:
At the end of church one time the pastor says turn to your neighbor and ask them if they are saved. So the guy beside me turns to me and says "Sistah are you saved and filled with the holy ghost?" I nod my head yes and he demands "Let me hear you speak in tongues." I was caught off guard. He looked at me and said. "I'm serious. Let me hear you." I mean I hurt me that he implied that I wasn't saved because i couldnt. I always thought you can't command on cue....but apparently not. This guy was serious. When I didn't comply he shook his head at me like he was disgusted or something.

Anyway, I'm more confused than ever. But thank you to those who replied. You gave me some things to consider.

I'll be back, later. I just saw this but I'm running out of the door for errands. I need to address this for you and how to respond if this ever happens again.

In the meantime.... :bighug:

Laela · Dec 17, 2011

ZapMami, it's unfortunate you were approached this way. I hope you don't allow a bad experience like that to keep you from experiencing the power of the Holy Spirit for yourself, without force or extras. Everyone's relationship with God is unique; there may be fakers in churches, but that doesn't mean God's Holy Spirit isn't real. When His Spirit moves in YOU, you will surely know it. Don't worry about other people.

I encourage you to focus on what's good and what is of God, to keep from operating in unbelief... He is not able to function in the midst of unbelief.

Shimmie · Dec 17, 2011

Re: Speaking in Tongues---Should every1 be able to do it?

ZapMami said:
At the end of church one time the pastor says turn to your neighbor and ask them if they are saved. So the guy beside me turns to me and says "Sistah are you saved and filled with the holy ghost?"

I nod my head yes and he demands "Let me hear you speak in tongues." I was caught off guard. He looked at me and said. "I'm serious. Let me hear you."

I mean I hurt me that he implied that I wasn't saved because i couldnt. I always thought you can't command on cue....but apparently not. This guy was serious. When I didn't comply he shook his head at me like he was disgusted or something.

Anyway, I'm more confused than ever. But thank you to those who replied. You gave me some things to consider.

Hi ZapMami...

I am so sorry that you had this negative experience. Please don't ever feel that you are less saved, less of a Christian, or that you love God less just because you do not have a 'prayer language'.

While I personally have a prayer language and I find that it helps me immensely, I have family, friends, and know of many 'annointed' and appointed Men and Women of God who lead Churches and Ministries who excel in their lives and love for God, who do not speak in tongues, YET...they are still strong leaders and they make tremendous strides and make differences in the lives of others and all to the glory of God.

Loving and serving God isn't complicated. It's men (mankind) who make it seem such. Therefore do not ever be hindered in your walk with Jesus trying to be what others think you should be. Anyone can see that you indeed love God and if anyone ever says or implies or tries to intimidate you ever again, tell them to take it up with Jesus.

The man who misjudged you in Church was wrong and he should have known better. As a matter of fact, his behaviour towards you, shows his immaturity in knowing the Holy Spirit for if he were 'that' on point, then he would have known that you were 'saved' by the Spirit of God' showing him so.

If this ever happens again, simply say,

"Sir or 'Sister', I am indeed saved and I don't have to prove it to you or anyone. God is my Judge, not you. God bless you."

Give them the Holy Ghost cheesy grin :grin:

and blink three times fast... :grin:

I need a 'gif' someone to describe the grin and rapid triple blink. :lol:

Nonie · Dec 17, 2011

ZapMami, if there's one thing that gets under my skin is when people take scripture and interpret it their own way and preach it as gospel. I tell you when in doubt, ask Father to guide you to the truth and He will.

I do not believe everyone must speak in tongues. God used tongues to reveal His Spirit to a world that didn't know Him after Jesus left. But nowhere has He said in His word that this is the only way it will be known that you are His. This is what His word says:

1 Corinthians 12

1 Now about the gifts of the Spirit, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed. 2 You know that when you were pagans, somehow or other you were influenced and led astray to mute idols. 3 Therefore I want you to know that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, “Jesus be cursed,” and no one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit.

4 There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. 5 There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. 6 There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.

7 Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. 8 To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, 10 to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues,[a] and to still another the interpretation of tongues. 11 All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.

12 Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. 13 For we were all baptized by[c] one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. 14 Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many.

15 Now if the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. 16 And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. 17 If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? 18 But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. 19 If they were all one part, where would the body be? 20 As it is, there are many parts, but one body.

21 The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” And the head cannot say to the feet, “I don’t need you!” 22 On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, 23 and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, 24 while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it, 25 so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. 26 If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.

27 Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. 28 And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, of helping, of guidance, and of different kinds of tongues. 29 Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? 30 Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues[d]? Do all interpret? 31 Now eagerly desire the greater gifts.

[^^bold, mine] (Source)

(Continued in next post coz it got too long again )

Nonie · Dec 17, 2011

And let's examine 1 Corinthians 14:

1 Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy. 2 For anyone who speaks in a tongue[a] does not speak to people but to God. Indeed, no one understands them; they utter mysteries by the Spirit. 3 But the one who prophesies speaks to people for their strengthening, encouraging and comfort. 4 Anyone who speaks in a tongue edifies themselves, but the one who prophesies edifies the church. 5 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,[c] unless someone interprets, so that the church may be edified.

6 Now, brothers and sisters, if I come to you and speak in tongues, what good will I be to you, unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or word of instruction? 7 Even in the case of lifeless things that make sounds, such as the pipe or harp, how will anyone know what tune is being played unless there is a distinction in the notes? 8 Again, if the trumpet does not sound a clear call, who will get ready for battle? 9 So it is with you. Unless you speak intelligible words with your tongue, how will anyone know what you are saying? You will just be speaking into the air. 10 Undoubtedly there are all sorts of languages in the world, yet none of them is without meaning. 11 If then I do not grasp the meaning of what someone is saying, I am a foreigner to the speaker, and the speaker is a foreigner to me. 12 So it is with you. Since you are eager for gifts of the Spirit, try to excel in those that build up the church.

13 For this reason the one who speaks in a tongue should pray that they may interpret what they say. 14 For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my mind is unfruitful. 15 So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my understanding; I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my understanding. 16 Otherwise when you are praising God in the Spirit, how can someone else, who is now put in the position of an inquirer,[d] say “Amen” to your thanksgiving, since they do not know what you are saying? 17 You are giving thanks well enough, but no one else is edified.

18 I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you. 19 But in the church I would rather speak five intelligible words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue.

20 Brothers and sisters, stop thinking like children. In regard to evil be infants, but in your thinking be adults. 21 In the Law it is written:

“With other tongues
and through the lips of foreigners
I will speak to this people,
but even then they will not listen to me,
says the Lord.”[e]

22 Tongues, then, are a sign, not for believers but for unbelievers; prophecy, however, is not for unbelievers but for believers. 23 So if the whole church comes together and everyone speaks in tongues, and inquirers or unbelievers come in, will they not say that you are out of your mind? 24 But if an unbeliever or an inquirer comes in while everyone is prophesying, they are convicted of sin and are brought under judgment by all, 25 as the secrets of their hearts are laid bare. So they will fall down and worship God, exclaiming, “God is really among you!”
Good Order in Worship

26 What then shall we say, brothers and sisters? When you come together, each of you has a hymn, or a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue or an interpretation. Everything must be done so that the church may be built up. 27 If anyone speaks in a tongue, two—or at the most three—should speak, one at a time, and someone must interpret. 28 If there is no interpreter, the speaker should keep quiet in the church and speak to himself and to God.

29 Two or three prophets should speak, and the others should weigh carefully what is said. 30 And if a revelation comes to someone who is sitting down, the first speaker should stop. 31 For you can all prophesy in turn so that everyone may be instructed and encouraged. 32 The spirits of prophets are subject to the control of prophets. 33 For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people.

34 Women[f] should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak, but must be in submission, as the law says. 35 If they want to inquire about something, they should ask their own husbands at home; for it is disgraceful for a woman to speak in the church.[g]

36 Or did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only people it has reached? 37 If anyone thinks they are a prophet or otherwise gifted by the Spirit, let them acknowledge that what I am writing to you is the Lord’s command. 38 But if anyone ignores this, they will themselves be ignored.[h]

39 Therefore, my brothers and sisters, be eager to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues. 40 But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.

(Source)

Nowhere in those two chapters do I see any command that I must speak in tongues but rather the Spirit determines who will and who won't according to His wishes. What's more, speaking in tongues is supposed to be a private prayer between God and the person and so I'm not sure why it is anyone else's concern who can or cannot speak in tongues. The Spirit intercedes for us when we don't know what to pray for but Jesus also taught us a prayer to pray at which time He also told us that Father knows what it is we need so whether we utter it or not, saying the prayer the Lord taught us will suffice.

Another thing OP you mentioned was about the babbling sounding made up. While it is true that Speaking in Tongues has been scientifically proven to be involuntary and to actually be a real language, there is also the fact that the mind is easily influenced and if you are next to someone babbling something you don't understand and you open your mind to it, you can end up babbling the same thing. I once learned from a former satanist that that is how they'd get people to curse God while in church. They loved charismatic churches where people love to pray shouting at the top of their voices the way Jesus warned us not to do. They would stand next to a person speaking in tongues and start rambling curses also in tongues. The person would get confused and join in the cursing. I don't know if this happened because some people were forcing issues and not truly controlled by the Spirit or if it's just a case where someone did not have the gift but was so desperate to talk in tongues that they were just the right victim for this to work. (I do wonder sometimes if this might be one reason Jesus warned us about loud praying....).

Since I believe prayer is unique to each one, I do find it odd that two people from two different lives would be babbling the same prayer for themselves...so I too don't know about that. And I also do think that it's important to heed Jesus' advice to pray in silence, because as scripture tells us, unless there's an interpreter then you aren't edifying anyone else so why the shouting?

Anyway, OP, I heard the same stuff you heard from your preacher when I was a new Christian, but I was finding out just how clearly God can speak to one if one asks a direct question. And I asked about this...and in a few days, He revealed these scriptures to me. So I am sure, speaking in tongues is not a must or an essential part of being a Christian. If the Spirit wills, He will give you the gift, but if you never speak in tongues, it doesn't make you any less a Christian than the one who does. In fact, if you have love in addition to whatever the Spirit feels is the gift for you, it is so much greater than any gift, for they all come to pass but love lasts forever (1 Corinthians 13).

I think our church leaders lack in humility and some need to return to scripture to remind themselves of the truth instead of using their own experiences to decide what must be for others. God's never changing word does not contradict itself. And if you read it, you will find several parts that say the same thing and remove all doubt. And if you read it prayerfully, the truth will become as clear as day.

OP, you did well to question everything you hear. We are warned to do this because the devil masquerades as an angel of light. Not saying your preacher is a devil so don't take me literally. Just know that Satan is so good at mixing the truth with lies so that he can get people to buy his BS. And if he can make you doubt your walk with Father and make you feel not good enough for God's Kingdom, then he will use any means necessary to do that. Let the Word of God be the sword you use to extinguish the flames of lies he tries to throw at you even through well-meaning folks.

nathansgirl1908 · Dec 18, 2011

With it being laid out so clearly in those scriptures, I still don't understand some of the teachings surrounding tongues. The only thing I can say is that people really need to read the Word for themselves on the issue.

Thanks for posting that Nonie.

LifeafterLHCF · Dec 18, 2011

Im glad your wrote this OP.I too have had a really bad thing with the whole tongues thing.I feel its not everyone gift simple bc the word says we all have different gifts and serve different purposes.One can't want to be a foot or an eye bc if we all were the same we wouldn't be able to do other things.Some can sing,dance,preach,teach,cook etc so I believe speaking in tongues esp those who actually have the gift cool.

My incident lead to me dissolving a mentorship with a older lady that had her bible thumping daugther who came in town to pray over me and basically push me to speak in tongues.I felt so conflicted as I still am so lost at that night.It felt very belittled bc the daughter felt that bc I didn't speak in tongues I was just a whoring sinner.I couldn't do anything right like pray correctly etc.Now to this day Im extremely untrusting of so called christian chicks and won't dare get close bc I can't ever go through something like that again.I would denounce my Christianity.To my understanding about the Word things should flow smoothly with God.It shouldn't be a production thus the gift your given should move smoothly and it should glorify him..just my 2 cents.

Nonie · Dec 18, 2011

@GoddessMaker, you reminded me of the dude who was laying hands and praying for people at my boarding school. Some people fell after he laid hands on them and folks attended to them. He said the "Spirit was coming over them" hence the falling down. When he got to me he jerked me so hard. What the? I staggered back. He gently placed his hand on my head and pushed me again making me stagger back again at which point he hollered... "Do not resist the Spirit my sister!" :look:

I don't remember how that all ended. I might have just taken a seat so he'd quit jerking my head like it was made of rubber. I don't know when his big strong arm became the Spirit and I don't think that's how things happen.

Sorry to hijack OP.

MonPetite · Dec 18, 2011

............................

Laela · Dec 18, 2011

@Nonie, how do you pray in the Spirit?
From my understanding, Paul is clearly making the distinction in 1 Corin 14 between the private prayer language/worship, verse 2 (for private edification) and the Gift of Tongues (for public edification, which requires translation) - verse 21

A mature Christian knows we cannot truly worship / communicate with God through emotions but through our spirit. The emotional part is our human reaction to the moving of the Holy Spirit, much like how the waters moved in Genesis when the Holy Spirit moved over it.

Nonie · Dec 18, 2011

Laela said:
@Nonie, how do you pray in the Spirit?
From my understanding, Paul is clearly making the distinction in 1 Corin 14 between the private prayer language/worship (verse 2) and the public gift of speaking in tongues (which requires translation) - verse 21

A mature Christian knows we cannot truly worship / communicate with God through emotions but through our spirit. The emotional part is our human reaction to the moving of the Holy Spirit, much like how the waters moved in Genesis when the Holy Spirit moved over it.

@Laela, there are times I feel a hollow inside that I don't understand. A sadness and a pressing need to pray. But because I don't know what to pray for, I simply respond to the command "Be still and know that I am God" and become still and very aware of God's presence, wisdom, might and love. I go into a mode of worship and into a mode of prayer that is without words. Romans 8:26-27. I sometimes start off with hymns of praise (I LOVE HYMNS!) and then I go silent. I usually end my prayer with the prayer the Lord taught us because His words "Your Father already knows what you need" seem to along with the words in Romans.

I think people assume that praying in the Spirit has to be in tongues, but I don't believe that to be the case. I believe when you pray in the Spirit, it's God Spirit who moves you to pray. When I get that heaviness that brings me to my knees, it is something beyond my understanding yet every time I respond as I described, I get up feeling like a burden has been lifted. There are times when I later find out that someone needed a prayer right at the time I responded. I believe the Omniscient One's Spirit prodding was the reason for that timely prayer.

Ephesians 6 which talks about the Armor of God says in verse 18:

18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.

Pray in the Spirit...with all kinds of prayers. Not just when praying in tongues, but on all occasions with all kinds of prayers. In other words, praying in the Spirit is how we ought to pray no matter how we pray. Praying in the Spirit I believe also means praying in the will of God. The verses I linked to above says in verse 27 that the Spirit intercedes for us according to God's will. And Romans 8:15-16 says:

15 The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship.[a] And by him we cry, “Abba,[b] Father.” 16 The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.

By God's Spirit we cry out to Father. In other words, He moves our prayer and energizes it and as I shared from my own experience, motivates us to pray.

So what does praying in the Spirit really mean? Phillipians 3:3 says we serve God by the Spirit[...]. And how do we do that? By putting no confidence in the flesh. If we cross reference that with Romans 8:5-8 we see that the mind led by the Spirit submits to God's law and is set on things the Spirit desires. So praying in the Spirit would be not putting confidence in the flesh but relying totally on Him to guide our prayer. Which is what I do when I am lost and don't know what to pray for.

I also mentioned that I believe praying in the Spirit is to pray according to God's will. Proverbs 3:6 says "In all your ways acknowledge the Lord and He will direct your paths" so that's one way of knowing His will--being in touch with Him and involving Him in all you do, surrendering your will to His and trusting Him with all your heart. (Proverbs 3:5) Another way to know His will is by reading His word and meditating on it.

2 Timothy 3:16-1

New International Version (NIV)

16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God[a] may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

By studying God's word, we come to know what pleases God and then we will be able to do what Romans 12:1-2 says:

1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

So when we worship in the Spirit, live in the Spirit, pray in the Spirit, etc...we do these things with the Spirit as our guide and we put all our faith in Him and let Him direct us in how to do these things according to God's will.

BostonMaria · Dec 19, 2011

I haven't read everyone's posts, but just wanted to chime in.

I was raised Catholic and speaking in tongues isn't something that is taught. I changed over to a non-denominational church back in 2002 and when I became born again I didn't speak in tongues. Looking back I believe that my other beliefs kinda clashed and got in the way. It wasn't until I became desperate for God in 2010 that I started to learn more about speaking in tongues. I tried, couldn't do it. One day I asked the Holy Spirit to help me speak in tongues. I cried out to Him really. I was in a dark place in my life. All of a sudden it just came to me. It took me 7 years to accept the gift.

I think you should give it time. Just keep praying and eventually when you are ready you will speak in tongues. In the meantime just keep reading your bible, go to church, and just keep learning.

Speaking in Tongues---Should every be able to do it?

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"God is the Only Truth -- Period"

Sidestepping the "lynch mob"

"God is the Only Truth -- Period"

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