Chapter 1: Introduction

- The Controversy of

A Foundational Sign

Speaking in tongues is one of the most controversial subjects in the Bible. It is right up there with what name you baptize in and womenʼs role in ministry. But why is this such a controversial topic? In this in-depth study, we will explore the validity and the legitimacy of speaking in tongues. We will also examine its relevance to the believer today.

“And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;” Mark 16:17 KJV

Unraveling the Controversy

Let us first examine what has caused the operation of speaking in tongues to be in question. How many times have you been in a church service and you heard someone speaking in a language not their own? But if you were to be honest and listen closely, it doesnʼt always sound like a language at all; it actually sounds like gibberish. This gives the listener the impression that this is not an operation of the Holy Spirit; this is motivated by the pride of the person speaking. But the thing about pride that we oen forget is that it is a double-edged sword. You see, it can be argued that some are not actually speaking in tongues as it is referred to in the Bible and they could actually be operating out of the pride of being seen. But it can also be argued that the listener is listening from a position of pride—the pride that says, “ I am the great discerner of all things pertaining to God.”

And any activity that is beyond the scope of my reasoning, I have deemed as ungodly. The Bible calls this person a scoer.