Speaking in tongues is a term used in various Christian traditions to describe speaking in an unknown or inspired language believed to be empowered by the Holy Spirit. Whether you’re truly speaking in tongues or not is a topic with diverse perspectives across churches, denominations, and personal experiences. Here are practical, grounded points to consider, along with common criteria used by many communities to assess authenticity. What most believers mean by “tongues”
- An experiential experience: Many describe it as an energized, reverent, or ecstatic prayer in which words or sounds come that are not learned or consciously produced.
- A spiritual gift: In several biblical passages, tongues are presented as a spiritual gift meant to edify the speaker and, when interpreted, to edify others (Acts 2:4; 1 Corinthians 12–14).
How to discern genuineness (common criteria used in communities)
- Origin of the language: In many traditions, tongues are believed to be enabled by the Spirit, often resulting in a language not learned by the speaker. If the sounds are repetitive or obviously crafted by the speaker, some communities question authenticity.
- Edification and motive: Authentic tongues are often expected to edify the speaker spiritually and, when interpreted, to edify listeners. If the motive feels prideful or performative, this can be a red flag for some.
- Spiritual fruit and alignment: Some look for congruence with scriptural teachings, humility in the posture of prayer, and peace or uplift in the heart after the experience.
- Accountability and interpretation: In many churches, tongues are to be accompanied by interpretation when used in public gatherings to benefit the body. Private tongues may be primarily for personal prayer.
- Consistency over time: A pattern of consistent, life-giving experience and alignment with faith values over time can reinforce perceived authenticity for some.
Practical guidance if you’re unsure
- Seek community wisdom: Talk with a trusted pastor, mentor, or mature believer in your church who knows you and can listen to your experience with you.
- Reflect on fruits and motives: Consider whether the experience leaves you more spiritually connected to God, more loving toward others, and more aligned with Scripture and the church’s teaching.
- Practice discernment: In group settings, be attentive to how tongues are used—whether there is order, exhortation toward edification, and whether interpretation is present when required by your tradition.
- Pray for clarity: Many believers find it helpful to ask God for confirmation, humility, and continued spiritual growth, while seeking wise counsel.
If you’re exploring from a broader standpoint
- Glossolalia (speaking in tongues) is described in many sources as a phenomenon where utterances resemble language but may not form recognizable words. The interpretation and acceptance of this phenomenon vary widely across faith communities.
- Some communities emphasize that tongues are a genuine language gifted by the Spirit, while others stress caution about self-deception and emphasize other spiritual gifts as equally important for church life.
- It can be helpful to study the biblical context (Acts 2, 1 Corinthians 12–14) alongside your own experiences and the teachings of your church tradition to form a coherent understanding that respects both Scripture and personal faith journey.
Direct takeaway
- There isn’t a single universal test that definitively proves you are “speaking in tongues” in every context, because interpretations differ widely. If you’re seeking clarity, engage with your faith community, assess motives and edification, consider the presence of interpretation in group settings, and pray for discernment.
