Speaking in Tongues - Book of Mormon Gospel Topics

Old Testament New Testament Book of Mormon Statements of Belief

Origins of the Topic

What types of speaking in tongues are described in the scriptures?

Speaking in tongues is interpreted differently by different denominations. Some believe that the language of tongues is God's language, not any earthly language. Some believe it to be a necessary gift for everyone that has been baptized by the Holy Spirit.

What is clear from the scriptures is that speaking tongues is meant to communicate God's Word.

Commentary: There are three kinds of speaking in tongues described in the Scriptures, (1) speaking to someone in their native language, (2) speaking a language but people hearing it in their native language, and (3) speaking in a language that no one can understand. The first two are gifts from God while the third is a gift of the devil meant to confuse people.

Old Testament

God can tell someone what to speak - Key Verse -
2 Samuel 23:1-2 [1] Now these be the last words of David. David the son of Jesse said, and the man who was raised up on high, the anointed of the God of Jacob, and the sweet psalmist of Israel, said, [2] The Spirit of the Lord spake by me, and his word was in my tongue.

God says he will instruct the House of Israel in a tongue other than Hebrew - Key Verse -
Isaiah 28:9-11 [9] Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts. [10] For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little: [11] For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people. Commentary: See Acts 2:1-8 for the confirmation of this prophesy

God says he will instruct the House of Israel in a tongue other than Hebrew - Key Verse - Key Scripture

Isaiah 28:9-11
[9] Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts.
[10] For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little:
[11] For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people.

Commentary: See Acts 2:1-8 for the confirmation of this prophesy

The purpose of God's words is to help people understand God's Word - Key Verse -
Isaiah 50:4 - The Lord God hath given me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him that is weary: he wakeneth morning by morning, he wakeneth mine ear to hear as the learned. Commentary: The concept of God providing words to speak so that someone else can understand them ("a word in season") occurs in the Old Testament. See Glory to understand the connection between learned (wisdom and understanding) and tongues. The concept of speaking to impart wisdom and understanding to other people occurs in the Old Testament and is not an original concept in the New Testament.

The purpose of God's words is to help people understand God's Word - Key Verse - Key Scripture

Isaiah 50:4 - The Lord God hath given me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him that is weary: he wakeneth morning by morning, he wakeneth mine ear to hear as the learned.

Commentary: The concept of God providing words to speak so that someone else can understand them ("a word in season") occurs in the Old Testament. See Glory to understand the connection between learned (wisdom and understanding) and tongues. The concept of speaking to impart wisdom and understanding to other people occurs in the Old Testament and is not an original concept in the New Testament.

God can give us words to speak - Key Verse -
Jeremiah 1:9 - Then the Lord put forth his hand, And touched my mouth. And the Lord said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth.

New Testament

People who believe in in Jesus may speak in other tongues - Key Verse -
Mark 16:16-17 [16] He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. [17] And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; Commentary: The new tongues mentioned here mean in languages new to the speakers, not that the languages themselves will be new. These words were spoken by Jesus after his resurrection, and his direction was not limited to a specific time.

People who believe in in Jesus may speak in other tongues - Key Verse - Key Scripture

Mark 16:16-17
[16] He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.
[17] And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;

Commentary: The new tongues mentioned here mean in languages new to the speakers, not that the languages themselves will be new. These words were spoken by Jesus after his resurrection, and his direction was not limited to a specific time.

People filled with the Holy Spirit may speak and other people may hear them in their own language (and not the language spoken by the speaker) - Key Verse -
Acts 2:1-8 [1] And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. [2] And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. [3] And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. [4] And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. [5] And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. [6] Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language. [7] And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans? [8] And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born? Commentary: This is an example of one type of speaking in tongues where people speak one language and other people hear in their own language. This is a fulfillment of the prophesy given in Isaiah 28:11.

People filled with the Holy Spirit may speak and other people may hear them in their own language (and not the language spoken by the speaker) - Key Verse - Key Scripture

Acts 2:1-8
[1] And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.
[2] And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.
[3] And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.
[4] And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
[5] And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven.
[6] Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language.
[7] And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans?
[8] And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?

Commentary: This is an example of one type of speaking in tongues where people speak one language and other people hear in their own language. This is a fulfillment of the prophesy given in Isaiah 28:11.

Gentiles were given the gift to speak in tongues (i.e. at least Hebrew) because the Jews understood the gentiles and the gentiles were magnifying God - Key Verse -
Acts 10:44-47 [44] While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. [45] And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. [46] For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, [47] Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?

Gentiles were given the gift to speak in tongues (i.e. at least Hebrew) because the Jews understood the gentiles and the gentiles were magnifying God - Key Verse - Key Scripture

Acts 10:44-47
[44] While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word.
[45] And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost.
[46] For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter,
[47] Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?

Divers tongues and interpretation of tongues are gifts given by the Holy Spirit
1 Corinthians 12:7-11 [7] But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. [8] For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; [9] To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; [10] To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: [11] But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.

Divers tongues and interpretation of tongues are gifts given by the Holy Spirit

1 Corinthians 12:7-11
[7] But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.
[8] For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;
[9] To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;
[10] To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:
[11] But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.

Diversities of tongues is a gift from God, but not everyone receives the same gift
1 Corinthians 12:28-31 [28] And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. [29] Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? [30] Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? [31] But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.

Diversities of tongues is a gift from God, but not everyone receives the same gift

1 Corinthians 12:28-31
[28] And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.
[29] Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles?
[30] Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?
[31] But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.

Speaking in tongues must be understood by other people that are present - Key Verse -
1 Corinthians 14:1-21 [1] Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy. [2] 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. [3] But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort. [4] He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church. [5] I would that ye all spake with tongues; but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying. [6] Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine? [7] And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped? [8] For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle? [9] So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air. [10] There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification. [11] Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh shall be a barbarian unto me. [12] Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church. [13] Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret. [14] For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful. [15] What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also. [16] Else when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest? [17] For thou verily givest thanks well, but the other is not edified. [18] I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all: [19] Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue. [20] Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men. [21] In the law it is written, With men of other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the Lord. Commentary: A very important note is that use of the word "unknown" in verses 2, 4, 13, 14, 19, and 27 was inserted during translation into English - the word does not exist in the original Greek text. Concerning verse 2, "howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries," means something spoken that no one can understand. The coment in verse 4, "He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself," is not to be interpreted as a good thing, but the opposite of a good thing since no one else can understand it (see verses 6-12). The consistent concept in all of these verses is to edify (build up) the church (verse 12) and not build up yourself (as mentioned in verse 2). Paul says that speaking 5 words that can be understood is better than speaking 10,000 words that cannot be understood. Paul's comment in verse 20 is admonition for the believers in Corinth that they needed to be mature in their understanding because their use of tongues was being misused due to their immaturity ("children in understanding" means immaturity, "understanding be men" means to be mature, and Paul starts his address in 1 Corinthians 3:1, "And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ" that he is speaking to people immature in their understanding of Jesus). In verse 21, he is correcting the people of Corinth that the purpose of speaking in tongues is to speak to people as it is written in the Law (to communicate God's Word).

Speaking in tongues must be understood by other people that are present - Key Verse - Key Scripture

1 Corinthians 14:1-21
[1] Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy.
[2] 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.
[3] But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.
[4] He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.
[5] I would that ye all spake with tongues; but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying.
[6] Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine?
[7] And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped?
[8] For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle?
[9] So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air.
[10] There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification.
[11] Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh shall be a barbarian unto me.
[12] Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church.
[13] Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret.
[14] For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful.
[15] What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.
[16] Else when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest?
[17] For thou verily givest thanks well, but the other is not edified.
[18] I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all:
[19] Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.
[20] Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men.
[21] In the law it is written, With men of other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the Lord.

Commentary: A very important note is that use of the word "unknown" in verses 2, 4, 13, 14, 19, and 27 was inserted during translation into English - the word does not exist in the original Greek text. Concerning verse 2, "howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries," means something spoken that no one can understand. The coment in verse 4, "He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself," is not to be interpreted as a good thing, but the opposite of a good thing since no one else can understand it (see verses 6-12). The consistent concept in all of these verses is to edify (build up) the church (verse 12) and not build up yourself (as mentioned in verse 2). Paul says that speaking 5 words that can be understood is better than speaking 10,000 words that cannot be understood.

Paul's comment in verse 20 is admonition for the believers in Corinth that they needed to be mature in their understanding because their use of tongues was being misused due to their immaturity ("children in understanding" means immaturity, "understanding be men" means to be mature, and Paul starts his address in 1 Corinthians 3:1, "And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ" that he is speaking to people immature in their understanding of Jesus). In verse 21, he is correcting the people of Corinth that the purpose of speaking in tongues is to speak to people as it is written in the Law (to communicate God's Word).

Not everyone will speak in tongues at the same time. Only a few that are present will speak in tongues, and then one by one. Speaking in tongues is for the benefit of those that do not believe in Jesus so they can hear the Gospel - Key Verse -
1 Corinthians 14:22-31 [22] Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe. [23] If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those that are unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad? [24] But if all prophesy, and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all: [25] And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so falling down on his face he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth. [26] How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying. [27] If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret. [28] But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God. [29] Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge. [30] If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace. [31] For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted. Commentary: Tongues are given as a sign to those that are not believers. This is consistent with the statement in verse 23 about an unbeliever that sees an entire church speaking in tongues would judge them to be mad. Verse 26 says the purpose of speaking in tongues is for edifying God - to make people understand God. Verse 27 states that people should speak one at a time ("by course"), again, this is consistent with the purpose to communicate the Word of God so it can be understood. This is consistent with verse 31 that states "one by one" that all may learn. These verses are consistent with the use of tongues to speak with people that have a different primary language (unbelievers may very well be people with a different primary language) in order to communicate the Word of God. There is nothing in these verses that would indicate that tongues are needed if everyone present use the same primary language.

Not everyone will speak in tongues at the same time. Only a few that are present will speak in tongues, and then one by one. Speaking in tongues is for the benefit of those that do not believe in Jesus so they can hear the Gospel - Key Verse - Key Scripture

1 Corinthians 14:22-31
[22] Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe.
[23] If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those that are unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad?
[24] But if all prophesy, and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all:
[25] And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so falling down on his face he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth.
[26] How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.
[27] If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret.
[28] But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God.
[29] Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge.
[30] If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace.
[31] For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted.

Commentary: Tongues are given as a sign to those that are not believers. This is consistent with the statement in verse 23 about an unbeliever that sees an entire church speaking in tongues would judge them to be mad. Verse 26 says the purpose of speaking in tongues is for edifying God - to make people understand God. Verse 27 states that people should speak one at a time ("by course"), again, this is consistent with the purpose to communicate the Word of God so it can be understood. This is consistent with verse 31 that states "one by one" that all may learn. These verses are consistent with the use of tongues to speak with people that have a different primary language (unbelievers may very well be people with a different primary language) in order to communicate the Word of God. There is nothing in these verses that would indicate that tongues are needed if everyone present use the same primary language.

Speaking in Tongues cannot be forbidden and needs to be done decently and in order - Key Verse -
1 Corinthians 14:39-40 [39] Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues. [40] Let all things be done decently and in order.

Book of Mormon

The ability to speak in togues comes after baptism of the Holy Ghost
2 Nephi 13:16-18 [16] Wherefore, my beloved brethren, I know that if ye shall follow the Son with full purpose of heart, acting no hypocrisy and no deception before God, but with real intent, repenting of your sins, witnessing unto the Father, that ye are willing to take upon you the name of Christ, by baptism; yea, by following your Lord and your Savior down into the water, according to his word; behold, then shall ye receive the Holy Ghost; [17] Yea, then cometh the baptism of fire and of the Holy Ghost; and then can ye speak with the tongue of angels, and shout praises unto the Holy One of Israel. [18] But behold, my beloved brethren, thus came the voice of the Son unto me, saying, After ye have repented of your sins, and witnessed unto the Father that ye are willing to keep my commandments, by the baptism of water, and have received the baptism of fire and of the Holy Ghost, and can speak with a new tongue, yea, even with the tongue of angels, and after this, should deny me, it would have been better for you, that ye had not known me. Commentary: These verses describe the progression of faith (follow the Son), repentance, baptism of water, baptism of the Holy Spirit, and then speaking in tongues. It is normal that gifts of the Holy Spirit follow the baptism of the Holy Spirit.

The ability to speak in togues comes after baptism of the Holy Ghost

2 Nephi 13:16-18
[16] Wherefore, my beloved brethren, I know that if ye shall follow the Son with full purpose of heart, acting no hypocrisy and no deception before God, but with real intent, repenting of your sins, witnessing unto the Father, that ye are willing to take upon you the name of Christ, by baptism; yea, by following your Lord and your Savior down into the water, according to his word; behold, then shall ye receive the Holy Ghost;
[17] Yea, then cometh the baptism of fire and of the Holy Ghost; and then can ye speak with the tongue of angels, and shout praises unto the Holy One of Israel.
[18] But behold, my beloved brethren, thus came the voice of the Son unto me, saying, After ye have repented of your sins, and witnessed unto the Father that ye are willing to keep my commandments, by the baptism of water, and have received the baptism of fire and of the Holy Ghost, and can speak with a new tongue, yea, even with the tongue of angels, and after this, should deny me, it would have been better for you, that ye had not known me.

Commentary: These verses describe the progression of faith (follow the Son), repentance, baptism of water, baptism of the Holy Spirit, and then speaking in tongues. It is normal that gifts of the Holy Spirit follow the baptism of the Holy Spirit.

The tongue of angels speak the words of Christ - Key Verse -
2 Nephi 14:1-7 [1] And now behold, my beloved brethren, I suppose that ye ponder somewhat in your hearts, concerning that which we should do, after ye have entered in by the way. [2] But behold, why do ye ponder these things in your hearts? Do ye not remember that I said unto you, that after ye had received the Holy Ghost, ye could speak with the tongue of angels? [3] And now, how could ye speak with the tongue of angels, save it were by the Holy Ghost? Angels speak by the power of the Holy Ghost; wherefore, they speak the words of Christ. [4] Wherefore, I said unto you, Feast upon the words of Christ; for behold the words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do. [5] Wherefore, now after I have spoken these words, if ye can not understand them, it will be because ye ask not, neither do ye knock; wherefore, ye are not brought into the light, but must perish in the dark. [6] For behold, again I say unto you, that if ye will enter in by the way and receive the Holy Ghost, it will shew unto you all things what ye should do. [7] Behold, this is the doctrine of Christ; and there will be no more doctrine given, until after he shall manifest himself unto you in the flesh. Commentary: These verses are clear that the tongue of angels speak so people can understand the Gospel and what people should do, which is the doctrine of Christ. Speaking in tongues is for the purpose of understanding the doctrine of Christ.

The tongue of angels speak the words of Christ - Key Verse - Key Scripture

2 Nephi 14:1-7
[1] And now behold, my beloved brethren, I suppose that ye ponder somewhat in your hearts, concerning that which we should do, after ye have entered in by the way.
[2] But behold, why do ye ponder these things in your hearts? Do ye not remember that I said unto you, that after ye had received the Holy Ghost, ye could speak with the tongue of angels?
[3] And now, how could ye speak with the tongue of angels, save it were by the Holy Ghost? Angels speak by the power of the Holy Ghost; wherefore, they speak the words of Christ.
[4] Wherefore, I said unto you, Feast upon the words of Christ; for behold the words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do.
[5] Wherefore, now after I have spoken these words, if ye can not understand them, it will be because ye ask not, neither do ye knock; wherefore, ye are not brought into the light, but must perish in the dark.
[6] For behold, again I say unto you, that if ye will enter in by the way and receive the Holy Ghost, it will shew unto you all things what ye should do.
[7] Behold, this is the doctrine of Christ; and there will be no more doctrine given, until after he shall manifest himself unto you in the flesh.

Commentary: These verses are clear that the tongue of angels speak so people can understand the Gospel and what people should do, which is the doctrine of Christ. Speaking in tongues is for the purpose of understanding the doctrine of Christ.

Speaking in tongues and interpretation of tongues are gifts
Omni 1:43-44 [43] And it came to pass that I began to be old; and, having no seed, and knowing King Benjamin to be a just man before the Lord, wherefore, I shall deliver up these plates unto him, exhorting all men to come unto God, the Holy One of Israel, [44] And believe in prophesying, and in revelations, and in the ministering of angels, and in the gift of speaking with tongues, and in the gift of interpreting languages, and in all things which are good:

Speaking in tongues and interpretation of tongues are gifts

Omni 1:43-44
[43] And it came to pass that I began to be old; and, having no seed, and knowing King Benjamin to be a just man before the Lord, wherefore, I shall deliver up these plates unto him, exhorting all men to come unto God, the Holy One of Israel,
[44] And believe in prophesying, and in revelations, and in the ministering of angels, and in the gift of speaking with tongues, and in the gift of interpreting languages, and in all things which are good:

Speaking in tongues is for the purpose of having people understand the wisdom of God's Word - Key Verse -
Alma 15:57-61 [57] Now seeing that I know these things, why should I desire more than to perform the work to which I have been called? [58] Why should I desire that I was an angel, that I could speak unto all the ends of the earth? [59] For behold, the Lord doth grant unto all nations, of their own nation and tongue, to teach his word; yea, in wisdom, all that he seeth fit that they should have; therefore we see that the Lord doth counsel in wisdom, according to that which is just and true. [60] I know that which the Lord hath commanded me, and I glory in it: I do not glory of myself, but I glory in that which the Lord hath commanded me; [61] Yea, and this is my glory, that perhaps I may be an instrument in the hands of God, to bring some soul to repentance; and this is my joy. Commentary: Verse 58 confirms that angels can speak to everyone on the Earth and do not use a language unique to Heaven. God wants everyone to hear the Gospel in their own tongue. See Glory to fully understand the connection between glory (understanding and wisdom) with the reason for speaking in tongues - to impart wisdom and understanding to other people.

Speaking in tongues is for the purpose of having people understand the wisdom of God's Word - Key Verse - Key Scripture

Alma 15:57-61
[57] Now seeing that I know these things, why should I desire more than to perform the work to which I have been called?
[58] Why should I desire that I was an angel, that I could speak unto all the ends of the earth?
[59] For behold, the Lord doth grant unto all nations, of their own nation and tongue, to teach his word; yea, in wisdom, all that he seeth fit that they should have; therefore we see that the Lord doth counsel in wisdom, according to that which is just and true.
[60] I know that which the Lord hath commanded me, and I glory in it: I do not glory of myself, but I glory in that which the Lord hath commanded me;
[61] Yea, and this is my glory, that perhaps I may be an instrument in the hands of God, to bring some soul to repentance; and this is my joy.

Commentary: Verse 58 confirms that angels can speak to everyone on the Earth and do not use a language unique to Heaven. God wants everyone to hear the Gospel in their own tongue. See Glory to fully understand the connection between glory (understanding and wisdom) with the reason for speaking in tongues - to impart wisdom and understanding to other people.

People that deny that the gifts of the Lord (including tongues) shall become like the devil
3 Nephi 13:58-62 [58] Wo unto him that spurneth at the doings of the Lord; yea, wo unto him that shall deny the Christ and his works; [59] Yea, wo unto him that shall deny the revelations of the Lord, and that shall say, The Lord no longer worketh by revelation, or by prophecy, or by gifts, or by tongues, or by healings, or by the power of the Holy Ghost; [60] Yea, and wo unto him that shall say at that day, that there can be no miracle wrought by Jesus Christ, to get gain; for he that doeth this, shall become like unto the son of perdition, for whom there was no mercy, according to the word of Christ. [61] Yea, and ye need not any longer hiss, nor spurn, nor make game of the Jews, nor any of the remnant of the house of Israel, for behold the Lord remembereth his covenant unto them, and he will do unto them according to that which he hath sworn; [62] Therefore ye need not suppose that ye can turn the right hand of the Lord unto the left, that he may not execute judgment unto the fulfilling of the covenant which he hath made unto the house of Israel.

People that deny that the gifts of the Lord (including tongues) shall become like the devil

3 Nephi 13:58-62
[58] Wo unto him that spurneth at the doings of the Lord; yea, wo unto him that shall deny the Christ and his works;
[59] Yea, wo unto him that shall deny the revelations of the Lord, and that shall say, The Lord no longer worketh by revelation, or by prophecy, or by gifts, or by tongues, or by healings, or by the power of the Holy Ghost;
[60] Yea, and wo unto him that shall say at that day, that there can be no miracle wrought by Jesus Christ, to get gain; for he that doeth this, shall become like unto the son of perdition, for whom there was no mercy, according to the word of Christ.
[61] Yea, and ye need not any longer hiss, nor spurn, nor make game of the Jews, nor any of the remnant of the house of Israel, for behold the Lord remembereth his covenant unto them, and he will do unto them according to that which he hath sworn;
[62] Therefore ye need not suppose that ye can turn the right hand of the Lord unto the left, that he may not execute judgment unto the fulfilling of the covenant which he hath made unto the house of Israel.

A person that denies the gifts of God (including tongues) does not know the gospel of Christ
Mormon 4:65-68 [65] O then ye unbelieving, turn ye unto the Lord; cry mightily unto the Father in the name of Jesus, that perhaps ye may be found spotless, pure, fair and white, having been cleansed by the blood of the Lamb, at that great and last day. [66] And again I speak unto you, who deny the revelations of God, and say that they are done away, that there are no revelations, nor prophecies, nor gifts, nor healing, nor speaking with tongues, and the interpretation of tongues. [67] Behold I say unto you, He that denieth these things, knoweth not the gospel of Christ; yea, he has not read the scriptures; if so, he does not understand them. [68] For do we not read that God is the same yesterday, today, and for ever; and in him there is no variableness neither shadow of changing.

A person that denies the gifts of God (including tongues) does not know the gospel of Christ

Mormon 4:65-68
[65] O then ye unbelieving, turn ye unto the Lord; cry mightily unto the Father in the name of Jesus, that perhaps ye may be found spotless, pure, fair and white, having been cleansed by the blood of the Lamb, at that great and last day.
[66] And again I speak unto you, who deny the revelations of God, and say that they are done away, that there are no revelations, nor prophecies, nor gifts, nor healing, nor speaking with tongues, and the interpretation of tongues.
[67] Behold I say unto you, He that denieth these things, knoweth not the gospel of Christ; yea, he has not read the scriptures; if so, he does not understand them.
[68] For do we not read that God is the same yesterday, today, and for ever; and in him there is no variableness neither shadow of changing.

People that believe in Christ and preach the Gospel to the world will be given gifts (including tongues)
Mormon 4:85-88 [85] For behold, thus saith Jesus Christ, the Son of God unto his disciples who should tarry; yea, and also to all his disciples, in the hearing of the multitude, [86] Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature; and he that believeth and is baptized, shall be saved, but he that believeth not, shall be damned. [87] 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; [88] And whosoever shall believe in my name, doubting nothing, unto him will I confirm all my words, even unto the ends of the earth.

People that believe in Christ and preach the Gospel to the world will be given gifts (including tongues)

Mormon 4:85-88
[85] For behold, thus saith Jesus Christ, the Son of God unto his disciples who should tarry; yea, and also to all his disciples, in the hearing of the multitude,
[86] Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature; and he that believeth and is baptized, shall be saved, but he that believeth not, shall be damned.
[87] 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;
[88] And whosoever shall believe in my name, doubting nothing, unto him will I confirm all my words, even unto the ends of the earth.

The gifts of the Holy Spirit (including tongues) are given so that other people can profit from them - Key Verse -
Moroni 10:7-13 [7] And ye may know that he is, by the power of the Holy Ghost; wherefore I would exhort you, that ye deny not the power of God; for he worketh by power, according to the faith of the children of men, the same to-day and to-morrow, and for ever. [8] And again I exhort you, my brethren, that ye deny not the gifts of God, for they are many; and they come from the same God. [9] And there are different ways that these gifts are administered; but it is the same God who worketh all in all; and they are given by the manifestations of the Spirit of God unto men, to profit them. [10] For behold, to one is given by the Spirit of God, that he may teach the word of wisdom; and to another, that he may teach the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; and to another exceeding great faith; and to another, the gifts of healing by the same Spirit. [11] And again, to another, that he may work mighty miracles; and again, to another, that he may prophesy concerning all things; and again, to another, the beholding of angels and ministering spirits; and again, to another, all kinds of tongues; and again, to another, the interpretation of languages and of divers kinds of tongues. [12] And all these gifts come by the Spirit of Christ; and they come unto every man severally, according as he will. [13] And I would exhort you, my beloved brethren, that ye remember that every good gift cometh of Christ.

The gifts of the Holy Spirit (including tongues) are given so that other people can profit from them - Key Verse - Key Scripture

Moroni 10:7-13
[7] And ye may know that he is, by the power of the Holy Ghost; wherefore I would exhort you, that ye deny not the power of God; for he worketh by power, according to the faith of the children of men, the same to-day and to-morrow, and for ever.
[8] And again I exhort you, my brethren, that ye deny not the gifts of God, for they are many; and they come from the same God.
[9] And there are different ways that these gifts are administered; but it is the same God who worketh all in all; and they are given by the manifestations of the Spirit of God unto men, to profit them.
[10] For behold, to one is given by the Spirit of God, that he may teach the word of wisdom; and to another, that he may teach the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; and to another exceeding great faith; and to another, the gifts of healing by the same Spirit.
[11] And again, to another, that he may work mighty miracles; and again, to another, that he may prophesy concerning all things; and again, to another, the beholding of angels and ministering spirits; and again, to another, all kinds of tongues; and again, to another, the interpretation of languages and of divers kinds of tongues.
[12] And all these gifts come by the Spirit of Christ; and they come unto every man severally, according as he will.
[13] And I would exhort you, my beloved brethren, that ye remember that every good gift cometh of Christ.

Statements of Belief

- No Found or Stated Position

- Consistent with Scripture

- Partially Consistent with Scripture

- Inconsistent with Scripture

Anabaptism

Anglican

Assyrian Church

Church of Christ

Church of Jesus Christ (Restoration Branches)

(Utah) Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints

Community of Christ

Eastern Orthodox

Islam

Jehovah's Witnesses

Judaism

Lutheran

Methodist

Pentecostal

Presbyterian

Roman Catholic

Seventh-Day Adventist Church

Southern Baptist Convention

Anabaptism -

Anglican -

Assyrian Church -

Church of Christ -

Church of Jesus Christ (Restoration Branches) -

RLDS Doctrine and Covenants, Section 46:5a-7f [5a] And again, verily I say unto you, I would that ye should always remember, and always retain in your minds what those gifts are, that are given unto the church, for all have not every gift given unto them; [5b] for there are many gifts, and to every man is given a gift by the Spirit of God: [5c] to some it is given one, and to some is given another, that all may be profited thereby; [5d] to some it is given by the Holy Ghost to know that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, and that he was crucified for the sins of the world; [5e] to others it is given to believe on their words, that they also might have eternal life, if they continue faithful.

[6a] And again, to some it is given by the Holy Ghost to know the differences of administration, as it will be pleasing unto the same Lord, according as the Lord will, suiting his mercies according to the conditions of the children of men. [6b] And again, it is given by the Holy Ghost to some to know the diversities of operations, whether it be of God, that the manifestations of the Spirit may be given to every man to profit withal.

[7a] And again, verily I say unto you, To some it is given, by the Spirit of God, the word of wisdom; [7b] to another it is given the word of knowledge, that all may be taught to be wise and to have knowledge. [7c] And again, to some it is given to have faith to be healed, and to others it is given to have faith to heal. [7d] And again, to some it is given the workings of miracles; and to others it is given to prophesy, and to others the discerning of spirits. [7e] And again, it is given to some to speak with tongues, and to another it is given the interpretation of tongues: [7f] and all these gifts come from God, for the benefit of the children of God.

RLDS Doctrine and Covenants, Section 87:4 - For it shall come to pass in that day, that every man shall hear the fullness of the gospel in his own tongue, and in his own language, through those who are ordained unto this power, by the administration of the Comforter, shed forth upon Christ.

Commentary: That people may be given one or more gifts (including speaking in tongues and interpretation of tongues) for the benefit of other people and that the people will hear the Gospel in their own language is consistent with the scriptures.

(Utah) Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints -

Community of Christ -

Eastern Orthodox -

Islam -

Jehovah's Witnesses -

Judaism -

Lutheran -

Methodist -

Article XV—Of Speaking in the Congregation in Such a Tongue as the People Understand: It is a thing plainly repugnant to the Word of God, and the custom of the primitive church, to have public prayer in the church, or to minister the Sacraments, in a tongue not understood by the people.

Commentary: The requirement that someone must understand what is spoken in tongues in consistent with the scriptures.

Pentecostal -

The Gift of the Holy Ghost: The Holy Spirit is God. "God is a Spirit" (John 4:24). "There is . . . one Spirit" (Ephesians 4:4). To become a subject in the kingdom of God, Jesus said a person must be "born again," or "born of water and of the Spirit" (John 3:3-5). The birth of the Spirit and the baptism of the Spirit are synonymous terms. The Apostle Peter understood this truth as he spoke. to the multitude in Jerusalem on the Day of Pentecost: "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" (Acts 2:38). This experience was received by the Jews on Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4), the Samaritans (Acts 8:15-17), and the Gentiles (Acts 10:44-48), plainly indicating that it was meant for all people, regardless of race, creed, color, or station in life. The new birth, consisting of water and Spirit, was never set forth as being optional or unessential. "Ye must be born again" are the words of Jesus in John 3:7. Until a person is born of the Spirit, he cannot be called a "son" of God.

There are two major evidences of the baptism of the Holy Spirit. The initial, outward evidence is speaking with tongues, which means speaking miraculously in languages the speaker does not know.

Speaking with other tongues has been connected with Spirit baptism since the beginning of the church age. On the birthday of the New Testament church, the Day of Pentecost after Christ's ascension, approximately 120 disciples of Christ were inundated by the Spirit of God and "began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance" (Acts 2:1-4). The household of an Italian centurion received the same spiritual experience, which the Jewish Christian onlookers readily identified, "for they heard them speak with tongues" (Acts 10:44-48). In Acts 19:1-6, a group of John the Baptist's disciples heard about the Holy Ghost from the Apostle Paul; they too were filled with the Spirit, "and they spake with tongues."

Further evidence of the Spirit's abiding presence in our lives is the fruit of the Spirit, which Paul mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law."

Commentary: It is consistent with the scriptures that the Holy Spirit can enable people to speak in other tongues. To connect the speaking in other tongues as an evidence of baptism with the Holy Spirit is not consistent with the purpose of speaking in tongues to allow people to hear the Gospel in their own tongue as given in the scriptures (Acts 2:6-8, 1 Corinthians 14:21-33). It should be noted that when people were baptized in communities where different people of different native tongues lived, the gift of tongues allowed those baptized with the Holy Spirit to speak with all of these people. The purpose of the gift of tongues is to communicate God's Word. The purpose of baptism is to make a covenant with Jesus. While the two conditions can occur close together, they are not connected as evidence for the other.

Presbyterian -

Speaking in tongues - Question: I was looking at the decisions of the General Assembly and I noticed this quote on speaking in tongues: "In 1976 the Assembly upheld a presbytery's decision to discipline a pastor who practiced the private exercise of speaking in tongues."

Answer: I can speak from experience in the appeal of a minister who announced that he spoke in tongues. I was one of those prosecuting the case before General Assembly and Presbytery. You are right in saying that the Bible doesn't forbid speaking in tongues, and even commends it (1 Corinthians 14:39), but not very highly.

Why our action in 1976? Because the SPECIAL gifts listed in 1 Corinthians 12) were limited to the times of the apostles which ceased at the end of the apostolic age. Hebrews 2:1 & 2 says "God has ... in these last days spoken to us in His Son ..."

But the main reason for the OPC's 1976 action was that 1 Corinthians 14 teaches that tongues could be interpreted by another special gift. So, when genuine tongues were interpreted to the edifying of the church, they became prophecy...Now the New Testament brought to the final conclusion the revelations of God to His people throughout previous ages. With the death of the last apostle, there was no more prophecy, including tongues (which were prophecy in another language).

Commentary: That the gifts were for a limited time is not consistent with the scriptures given that they existed in the Old Testament and Jesus gave no time limit on the gift of speaking in tongues. Stating that tongues was only prophesy is inconsistent with 1 Corinthians that stated tongues were "either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine." This is clear that tongues can be used to explain and provide understanding of doctrine. That revelation ended with the New Testament is inconsistent with the history of revelation as described in both the Old and New Testament and that no statements in the scriptures indicate that revelation was to ever cease.

Roman Catholic -

Seventh-Day Adventist Church -

Fundamental Beliefs, Spiritual Gifts and Ministries:

God bestows upon all members of His church in every age spiritual gifts which each member is to employ in loving ministry for the common good of the church and of humanity. Given by the agency of the Holy Spirit, who apportions to each member as He wills, the gifts provide all abilities and ministries needed by the church to fulfill its divinely ordained functions. According to the Scriptures, these gifts include such ministries as faith, healing, prophecy, proclamation, teaching, administration, reconciliation, compassion, and self-sacrificing service and charity for the help and encouragement of people. Some members are called of God and endowed by the Spirit for functions recognized by the church in pastoral, evangelistic, apostolic, and teaching ministries particularly needed to equip the members for service, to build up the church to spiritual maturity, and to foster unity of the faith and knowledge of God. When members employ these spiritual gifts as faithful stewards of God's varied grace, the church is protected from the destructive influence of false doctrine, grows with a growth that is from God, and is built up in faith and love. (Rom. 12:4-8; 1 Cor. 12:9-11, 27, 28; Eph. 4:8, 11-16; Acts 6:1-7; 1 Tim. 3:1-13; 1 Peter 4:10, 11.)

Commentary: Acknowledging that the gifts of the Holy Spirit continue even today is consistent with the scriptures. Acknowledging that the gifts are for the purpose of building the church is consistent with the scriptures. The gift of tongues is not specifically mentioned.

Southern Baptist Convention -

God the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of God, fully divine. He inspired holy men of old to write the Scriptures. Through illumination He enables men to understand truth. He exalts Christ. He convicts men of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment. He calls men to the Saviour, and effects regeneration. At the moment of regeneration He baptizes every believer into the Body of Christ. He cultivates Christian character, comforts believers, and bestows the spiritual gifts by which they serve God through His church. He seals the believer unto the day of final redemption. His presence in the Christian is the guarantee that God will bring the believer into the fullness of the stature of Christ. He enlightens and empowers the believer and the church in worship, evangelism, and service.

Genesis 1:2; Judges 14:6; Job 26:13; Psalms 51:11; 139:7ff.; Isaiah 61:1-3; Joel 2:28-32; Matthew 1:18; 3:16; 4:1; 12:28-32; 28:19; Mark 1:10,12; Luke 1:35; 4:1,18-19; 11:13; 12:12; 24:49; John 4:24; 14:16-17,26; 15:26; 16:7-14; Acts 1:8; 2:1-4,38; 4:31; 5:3; 6:3; 7:55; 8:17,39; 10:44; 13:2; 15:28; 16:6; 19:1-6; Romans 8:9-11,14-16,26-27; 1 Corinthians 2:10-14; 3:16; 12:3-11,13; Galatians 4:6; Ephesians 1:13-14; 4:30; 5:18; 1 Thessalonians 5:19; 1 Timothy 3:16; 4:1; 2 Timothy 1:14; 3:16; Hebrews 9:8,14; 2 Peter 1:21; 1 John 4:13; 5:6-7; Revelation 1:10; 22:17.

Commentary: This is the only statement from the SBC about gifts of the Spirit, which is not enough to determine the church's position on the speaking with tongues. An interesting LifeWay study in 2007 showed that 50% of SBC pastors believe the following question, "Do you believe that the Holy Spirit gives some people the gift of a special language to pray to God privately? Some people refer to this as a Private Prayer Language or the 'private use of tongues.'" Another result from the study was, "Southern Baptist senior pastors are more likely than non-SBC Protestant pastors to understand 'tongues' in the New Testament to mean the 'God-given ability to speak another language' (62 percent versus 54 percent)." And, "Fifty-five percent of recent Southern Baptist seminary graduates believe 'the gift of tongues (as described in 1 Corinthians) ceased to be a valid gift in times past.'" The study is interesting in showing that people within a church do not necessarily believe the church statements of belief. It's interesting that such a large percentage deny the gift of tongues even though the scriptures admonish those that do not believe in the gifts.