I [Paul] thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all. —1 Corinthians 14:18
Paul desired for all to speak in tongues. Yet he said that in the church he would rather speak five words with understanding that by his voice he might teach others, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue. He urged us not to forbid one another to speak with tongues (1 Cor. 14:39).
Tongues are one of the last signs of the soon return of Jesus. For all that are baptized with the Holy Ghost, the first words they speak in an unknown tongue, when interpreted, are “Jesus is coming soon, get ready.” Everyone that speaks in an unknown tongue should pray that he might interpret.
Paul said, “Desire spiritual gifts.” He that speaks in an unknown tongue, speaks unto God. No man understands him, but in the Spirit he speaketh mysteries. He edifies himself, but if he interprets or someone else interprets, he edifies the whole church.
Tongues are for a sign to unbelievers that Jesus is coming soon, and that the Holy Ghost is poured out. Those who have the gift of tongues can speak at will, or any time that the Spirit is moving. Some even lose their experience and still speak any time, anything they want to, casting reflections on the cause of Christ. Speaking in tongues without the power of the Holy Ghost is done in the flesh and is not of God.
God, empower me to speak by Your
Spirit and not of my flesh. Amen.
