The New Testament's Guide: To Tongues - Part 1

In 1 Corinthians 14, we are challenged to move beyond the extremes—neither avoiding spiritual gifts entirely nor elevating them above Christ himself. We discover that speaking in tongues isn't a badge of superior spirituality or proof of salvation, but rather a personal gift meant to build us up as we pray mysteries in the Spirit directly to God. The text reveals three distinct expressions: the Acts 2 miracle, where people heard the gospel in their own languages, personal prayer language between us and God, and corporate tongues with interpretation for the church's benefit. We're invited to embrace the supernatural reality we already live in—after all, salvation itself is the greatest miracle. The Holy Spirit doesn't point to himself but to Jesus, and every gift exists to conform us more fully to the image of the Son. Perhaps it's time we stop letting past abuses or denominational baggage rob us of what God intends for our spiritual growth.