(PDF) Can I Really Speak in Tongues? Is speaking in tongues relevant in the 21st Century?

To all Christians who have been taught conflicting teachings on what God has made available to the believers after they received the gift holy spirit when they became born again. To those who want to "clear the air" in their own understanding concerning the conflicting religious views and false doctrine regarding the different parts of the gift holy spirit (the nine manifestations) and who receives them. This book will show you via evidence in The Word of God, that what God made available on the Day of Pentecost, is still available with the same fullness and the same power as the new born again believers in the first century church. And utilized after the resurrection of Jesus Christ and after the pouring out of the gift holy spirit on Pentecost, by Speaking In Tongues by the twelve Apostles. (Acts 2: 1-12) Speaking In Tongues was the first manifestation the new Christians utilized after becoming born again in the first century church. Maybe there is a message here for current believers to emulate concerning what we should do after we receive the gift holy spirit. Book is Copyrighted, and assigned an ISBN# by Kindle Direct Publishing / Amazon

Can I Really Speak In Tongues? Is speaking in tongues relevant in the 21st Century? The Sequel to this book: 20+ Benefits Speaking in Tongues has for You. By Peter Arbib © Sound Wisdom Publications 2016 https://SoundWisdomPublications.com Can I Really Speak In Tongues? Is speaking in tongues relevant in the 21st Century? First Edition December 2016 First Revision October 2017 Second Revision January 30, 2019 Third Revision February 2022 Copyright © 2016 Peter Laurence Arbib All rights reserved. This book or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission from the author, except for the use of brief quotations in a book review. Published by Sound Wisdom Publications Camby, Indiana 46113 https://SoundWisdomPublications.com Library of Congress Catalog Number: International Standard Book Number: ISBN-13: 978-1516950355 Softcover ISBN-13: 979-8769245664 Hardcover ISBN-10: 1516950356 All Biblical quotations unless otherwise noted are from the King James Version of the Bible. A special thanks to Rev. Jon O. Nessle who is my minister and mentor for his encouragement to write with the inspiration I am given to share various aspects of Christian living. Dedication To all Christians who have been taught conflicting teachings on what God has made available to the believers after they received the gift holy spirit when they became born-again. To those who want to "clear the air" in their own understanding concerning the conflicting religious views and false doctrine regarding the different parts of the gift holy spirit (the nine manifestations) and who receives them. This book will show you via evidence in The Word of God, that what God has made available on the Day of Pentecost, is still available with the same fullness and the same power as the new born-again believers in the first-century church had. The same power that they utilized after the resurrection of Jesus Christ and after the pouring out of the gift holy spirit on Pentecost, by Speaking in Tongues by the twelve Apostles. (Acts 2: 1-12) Speaking in Tongues was the first manifestation the new Christians utilized after becoming born-again in the first-century church. Maybe there is a message here for current believers to emulate concerning what we should do after we receive the gift holy spirit? 1Co 12:1 KJV 1 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant. 1Co 12:7 KJV 7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. Mar 16:17 KJV 17 And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; Preface Allow me to me introduce myself. My name is Peter Arbib, I am an active Christian who has attended two years of seminary training (one year in the field, one year in college) and an additional one year of missionary work.1 I have led Christian fellowships and I continue to study and teach God’s Word in the area of receiving and manifesting the gift of holy spirit. Where to start? There is no doubt that there are many different teachings on the availability of the gift holy spirit. But there are also many different teachings on who can manifest certain parts of the gift for those that believe the gift is available today. Amongst all this confusion, it is still possible to clear the air by going to The Word of God and let it speak for itself. The author of confusion is God’s archenemy Satan, who was the angle of light in the beginning, but wanted to overthrow God so he would be like god, has caused all these differing false doctrines to confuse those that want to know the truth about this subject. So, Satan knows how to twist lies to sound like the truth and to fool us into believing a lie, so we can’t walk with the power of God in our lives. That is Satan’s ultimate goal for born-again believers, to be powerless over his Missionary: Fargo, ND. 1976-1977, Seminary: Field: Grand Junction, CO. 19811982, Seminary College: The Way College, Emporia, Kansas: 1982-1983 1 i power, but to make you think you are Christian’s with God’s power. He can’t stop us from becoming born-again as far as the person's free will is concerned, but he can ruin our lives by spreading the false doctrine that teaches us that the power of God, the gift of holy spirit, is no longer available through the many religious organizations. It is in this gift from God, that we have been given the needed spiritual power to defeat Satan’s attacks in our lives. If we are convinced that God’s gift is no longer available, or we believe in the power of God but have not been taught how to operate the gift to defeat Satan. Then Satan can wreck our life by destroying our innermost desires of success, then he has won in all practicality, even though you are born-again and are heaven bound at the return of Christ. Satan has denied you the knowledge through his lies that God has given you the power to defeat him in this world within the gift of holy spirit. Satan would rather have no one get born-again, but to have a person get bornagain, who stays uninformed about the power they have been given within the gift of holy spirit ends up just like a person who is not born-again without any spiritual power to defeat him. If Satan, through his many lies about the availability of God’s gift of His power in us by way of the gift holy spirit is not ii believed to be available in our day and time, then he has won the battle, and denied you your right to use that power of the gift holy spirit that can defeat him in your life. Satan’s goal is to undermine as many born-again Christians as possible, so they don’t know how to utilize the gift of holy spirit properly, or they don’t think it is available anymore. Why? Because within the gift of holy spirit is the only way you can defeat Satan. The main thrust of this book is to show you what The Word of God says about what is available, not on all the details on how to walk by the spirit, but that you have been given a wonderful gift that includes not only eternal life but also includes the spiritual power you will need to defeat Satan now as he tries to undermine your life on this Earth. If Satan would have known about the gift of holy spirit that was given in full measure (including eternal life) on the Day of Pentecost, he never would have crucified our Lord Jesus Christ!2 1Co 2:8,12 KJV 8 Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. 12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. 2 iii Satan thought that once he killed Jesus Christ, he would be done with Jesus, and get back to his destructive activities. But God raised Jesus Christ from the dead seventy-two hours later,3 and on the Day of Pentecost God gave the gift of holy spirit that not only gave those people eternal life spiritually but gave them the same power Jesus Christ had when He was physically alive, and then some, this power was evidenced by the twelve Apostles who all spoke in tongues. Now everywhere there is a born-again believer that has been instructed in operating the power from the gift of holy spirit, can now defeat Satan’s power every time, just as Jesus Christ did during His ministry on Earth. If Satan would have known this, he never would have murdered Jesus Christ. That is how big in scope and importance this is to God and us! It is the greatest gift from God in the whole universe, literally, because it enables us to defeat Satan in any endeavor, he has orchestrated to ruin our life. Instead of one believer (Jesus Christ) walking the face of the Earth and defeating him, there are millions of believers that have the same power Jesus Christ had, (and more: speaking in tongues), so we can defeat Satan in our lives millions of times a day! Mat 12:40 KJV 40 For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale's belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. 3 iv 1Co 2:7-9 KJV 7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: 8 Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. 9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. The gift of holy spirit was first given on the Day of Pentecost and speaking in tongues was the first evidence or proof that they were born-again. It was expected to speak in tongues very shortly after a person has become born-again. This also let the Apostles know that they were born-again. Act 2:4 KJV 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. 1Co 12:3 KJV 3 Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God (speaking in tongues) calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost. (or: but by way of the gift holy spirit) This era in time, The Grace Administration, which includes the permanent gift of power from God, was v kept a secret from all of mankind,4 and from God’s angle beings, and from Satan, and yes, even God’s only begotten son Jesus Christ! There were only clues in the Old Testament of a time when man would be redeemed from Satan’s Rule over Earth. The limited power God did give to certain men and women in the Old Testament, was used to deliver God’s people. So, they knew of a day when they would be redeemed from all sin, but no details were available past that. Even Satan knew God would send a redeemer to claim back the dominion he stole from Adam by deception. That is why Satan tricked Eve to do the one act God said not to do. Eat from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil, and to try to get Adam and Eve’s children to also sin against God, so no human would be sin free, so they would not be able to redeem man (Genesis 2:1-4:14). That act of disobedience legally transferred the dominion along with the power of the Earth that God gave Adam over to Satan, God’s arch enemy. Because the dominion and power was given upon one 1Pe 1:9-12 KJV 9 Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls. 10 Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you: 11 Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow. 12 Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into. 4 vi condition, not to eat from The Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil. 5 As soon as Adam disobeyed that condition, the dominion and power was transferred. So, God had to provide a way to redeem mankind, to get back that dominion and power to mankind that Adam lost to Satan. Throughout the Old Testament were clues of a time when they would be redeemed, but no specific details on “that” future Administration. Satan’s dominion and power today is the same dominion and power that was stolen power God gave Adam, but he uses it to corrupt the earth and mankind. Satan knew about the Redeemer being raised from the dead after he killed him, but what he did not know was that God would give the believer the power that was also stolen from Adam back to any person who gets born-again. The gift of holy spirit restores “that” stolen power and dominion, and then some! It is in “that” restored spiritual power that we can defeat Satan as we operate it in our life. “This restored spiritual power” and then some was what was given back to mankind. But, with one huge difference, the spiritual power was unconditionally given to anyone who becomes born- Gen 1:28 KJV 28 And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth. 5 vii again, and it is now a permanent seed (just as a child has a seed from their father). Adam and Eve had been given that spiritual power with a condition, and if they disobeyed that condition, they would lose that spiritual power. That power was transferred to Satan who caused Adam and Eve to disobey that condition, that was a legal transfer, and God had to honor the transfer. Why, because God is not a liar, and even though Satan was kicked out of God’s presence, God still had all His spiritual laws in place in His domain and had to honor everyone. Therefore, that power that was given to Adam and Eve, had to go to Satan legally according to God’s spiritual laws already set up in the beginning. Satan cannot trick us out of losing our spiritual power like he tricked Adam out of it, it is a permanent part of our being. But Satan can and does all he can to keep us ignorant of what God has given us by spreading multiple lies about the availability or lack of the availability the gift of holy spirit, so that we don’t know about, or don’t know enough about how to use the spiritual power God has given us so that we can defeat Satan’s power in our lives. But we can still get back to the truth about the gift of holy spirit and how to manifest it to defeat Satan. viii That is one of the main topics Paul expounded on to the believers. It is one of the reasons we have been given the gift of holy spirit on the Day of Pentecost to present times. So back to the Day of Pentecost where God restored the spirit to mankind that Adam had lost when he did the one thing that God told him not to do, and therefore transferred the dominion and power over to Satan as a legal consequence of his disobedience to God. The Day of Pentecost was a celebration of the first fruits of their harvest. Jesus Christ, who was raised from the dead, and was the “first” human to be raised from the dead, never to die again. Jesus Christ was the first fruits from the dead. 1Co 15:20-24 KJV 20 But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept (are dead). 21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, (the consequence of losing God’s spirit on them) even so in Christ shall all be made alive. (the consequence of gaining God’s gift holy spirit in them) 23 But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming. 24 Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. ix It was at the end of a seven-week (50 days inclusive) period. The day after, was the high day, (the 50th day) The Day of Pentecost.6 This was the day that God chose to pour out His gift holy spirit to mankind and to fulfill the promise in the Old Testament to redeem man and claim back the stolen power and dominion. The speaking in tongues by the Apostles was proof that Jesus Christ was the first fruits from the dead from God, and the first man to be raised from the dead, never to die again! Jesus Christ was the promised redeemer in Gen. 3:14-15, and the firstborn from among the dead in Rev. 1:5. Gen 3:14-15 KJV 14 And the LORD God said unto the serpent, Because thou hast done this, thou art cursed above all cattle, and above every beast of the field; upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life: 15 And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel. Rev 1:5 KJV 5 And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, The Companion Bible, (Kregel Publications), Grand Rapids, Michigan, p. 1578, Acts 2:1 notes 6 x The first time anyone spoke in tongues was on the Day of Pentecost when the Apostles were gathered together in the Temple at the hours of prayer, as was the tradition. This was the only place that the men and women could be gathered together in one room according to their cultural rules. The myth that they were in an upper room with the women is totally against the social laws and customs of their time. Even the servants had to be the same sex in the private quarters of men or women. Let me ask you a question. If God was about to pour out His greatest gift to mankind, don’t you think God would make sure that there are as many people as possible to witness this outpouring? How can there be thousands of witnesses that spoke at least a dozen languages, if they were in a small room away from the Temple activities? Acts 2:5-11 declares how many witnesses and languages they heard them speak when the Apostles spoke in tongues. Remember, this was a high holy day, the Day of Pentecost, and all the citizens would be at the Temple at the hours of prayer in accordance with the laws, and those from the surrounding areas that were in a few hours walking distance from the Temple would also be there on the high holy day. This was the highest holy day of the year, and thousands of travelers would be arriving for this long celebration climaxing on The Day of Pentecost. xi Act 2:5-11 KJV 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? 9 Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, 10 Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, 11 Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God. This was the official beginning of the “Grace Administration” which was hidden from not only mankind but Satan also. And you had better believe that God was going to make a big deal at the beginning of this new era in time. And the first thing the new born-again believers did was to speak in tongues! As God has done in the past when a new administration was set in place, there was a public display of God’s power for all to see and hear. For instance, when the Christ Administration started, xii along with His ministry. There were three things that God did, and it was visible and audible to everyone that was present believer or non-believer. God does not hide His greatness from us. He makes sure everyone present has a clear witness of His greatness when He ushers in a new Administration. 1. The Heavens opened. 2. The Spirit of God shaped like a Dove descended and lit up Jesus Christ. 3. A voice from Heaven declared right after the baptism of Jesus Christ from John; “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”7 On the Day of Pentecost, the three signs from Heaven where:8 1. There was sound from Heaven as a rushing mighty wind. (Heard from Heaven) 2. Cloven tongues appeared above the Apostles. (Saw in Heaven – as the Dove with Jesus Christ) 3. They all spoke in tongues as God gave them the utterance. (Heard a voice from Heaven) Mat 3:16-17 KJV 16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: 17 And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. 8 Acts 2:1-4 7 xiii Biblically, anything above the ground is in Heaven. Speaking in tongues was an audible voice from heaven via the gift of holy spirit via the manifestation of speaking in tongues. In the Bible, anything above the ground level is considered “Heaven.” Speaking in tongues was the first manifestation of the gift holy spirit that was operated by the Apostles. And because the words they spoke were given to them by the spirit in them as they spoke, these words were as valid as God speaking to the people in the Temple. Is speaking in tongues still available in the 21st century? Do we still live the same Administration as the Apostles? Is this still relevant today in a modern society? There are many people who want to know these answers today. To understand what speaking in tongues is, we need to understand what was given to us in the gift holy spirit. This is a large portion of why I wrote this book, to explore the scriptures that give us information about the usage (or manifesting) of the gift holy spirit and specifically about the manifestation of speaking in tongues. In 1st Corinthians 12:10 is one verse that lists five out of nine manifestations in this section. Speaking in tongues is one of the manifestations mentioned as part of the gift holy spirit. xiv 1Co 12:10 KJV 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: The phrase “divers kinds of tongues” is old English for “many kinds of tongues,” because when a person speaks in tongues, the possibility is there to speak in several languages. In verse 7 of 1st Corinthians 12, the word “manifestation” is in the singular because it is referring to the whole gift of holy spirit that is made up with nine distinct parts that are listed in 1 Corinthians 12: 8-10. But there are other gifts given to the Church via men or women by God’s choice, these are gift ministries that are given to carry out the business end of the Church. 1Co 12:6 KJV 6 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. Eph 4:11-12 KJV 11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: In 1 Corinthians 12: 4-7, there are two types of gifts mentioned. The gift ministries to the church which have different ways to operate in the Church. That is; xv the ministry of an Apostle is different from the ministry of a teacher, and another gift is the gift of holy spirit encompassed in the word “manifestation” which is given to every born-again believer by God which includes the nine different ways to manifest or bring forth in the senses realm the gift holy spirit. 1Co 12:7-11 KJV 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. If you notice that in 1st Corinthians 12:7 and 11 there is the same phrase used at the beginning and at the end of this section, it is the phrase “to every man,” and is the figure of speech Epanadiplosis or Encircling, and means: marks what is being said, as being comprised in one complete circle, thus calling our attention to the seriousness about the included words between the repeated words (the listed nine manifestations) at the beginning and end. Putting the emphasis on what “every man” has xvi been given from God, all nine manifestations are given to every man.9 The phrase is “to every man,” in the phrases: “Given to every man” (verse 7), and “dividing to every man” (verse 11). Since that phrase is used as bookends at the beginning and end of the section listing the nine manifestations, “to every man” is the main subject of this list. This verse is telling us from the figure of speech that “every man” has all nine manifestations and can operate as many that are needed to carry out God’s Will. In verse 11, the phrase “dividing to every man severally as he will” is better translated “Distributing the manifestations (the main topic set forth in verse 7 for verse 7b-11) to every man by the man’s own will.” (All nine listed manifestations). In our quest about speaking in tongues, we will look at God’s Word and see what The Word has to say about the usage of the manifestation of speaking in tongues in today’s day and time. The first thing we will look at are the places that the phrase “tongues” is used in connection with speaking in tongues. This will give us many benefits that speaking in tongues has for us in our lives. It will show the availability of speaking in tongues and how to apply it in our daily life. Bullinger E.W., (Figures of speech used in the Bible), Baker Book House, Grand Rapids Michigan, 16th printing 1991, p. 245 9 xvii Table of Contents Dedication ...................................................................... i Preface............................................................................. i 1: A Study of the Word “Tongues” ............................ 1 ♦ The Day of Pentecost ................................................. 1 ♦ Speaking the wonderful works of God ...................... 28 ♦ The Gentiles also magnified God ............................. 33 ♦ Believers Prophesied for the first time ...................... 41 ♦ Tongues and Prophecy, who profits from each? ....... 45 ♦ Spiritual matters that profit the church (the group of believers) .................................................................... 55 ♦ God’s love motivates us, not our calling or spiritual abilities. ...................................................................... 63 2: That the Church may receive edifying ................ 72 ♦ 1st Cor. 14:2-5. The logic of when to speak in tongues or prophecy expounded ................................................... 90 ♦ 1st Cor. 14:6. No Profit with Speaking in Tongues -in the church- ................................................................. 95 ♦ 1st Cor. 14:7-11. You must speak in a language they understand in a group. ............................................... 98 ♦ 1st Cor. 14:12-13. Believe to interpret the tongues to edify the church .........................................................103 ♦ 1st Cor. 14:14-17. Speaking in tongues is for your private prayer life ......................................................108 ♦ 1st Cor. 14:18-20. I would rather speak 5 words you understand so I may teach you ..................................113 ♦ 1st or. 14:21-22. Tongues are for a sign to the unbeliever ..................................................................................116 ♦ 1st Cor. 14:23-25. Prophecy touches the hearts and convinces the believer and unbeliever alike ................120 3: Common Controversy’s Exposed ........................127 Common Misconceptions About Speaking In Tongues ..................................................................................133 ♦ Is speaking in tongues available today? .......133 ♦ Is speaking in tongues cursing God or Jesus? ..............................................................................169 Now concerning things belonging to the spirit, I would not have you ignorant................................................175 ♦ The three most misunderstood chapters in the New Testament...................................................179 ♦ The same person who spoke in tongues is to interpret – in the church - ..................................186 ♦ All the gifts of God’s grace are energized within our gift of grace “holy spirit” by God ..............197 4: Appendix: ...............................................................217 #1: What profit does speaking in tongues give us in the 21st Century? ............................................................217 #2: The Hours of Prayer Biblically ............................221 #3: What is “our witness” of proof of the resurrection of Jesus Christ? .............................................................222 ♦ What is our eyewitness today? ......................223 #4 Numbers in Scriptures .........................................238 Works Cited ................................................................... I 1: A Study of the Word “Tongues” ♦ The Day of Pentecost Many times, when working on a word study, you want to start with the first use of the word from the Greek or Hebrew. The first use will typically give us a base meaning or truth that will carry through all the next uses. Unless the context changes; like when the Administration changes from Law to Grace, then there will be a slight variation of the meaning that may be a one-time variation, or a variation that continues from thereafter. Like the word “baptism,” that means a water baptism in the Gospel’s, but changes to a baptism in the gift of holy spirit after the Day of Pentecost, where water is no longer needed to baptize people. It still means to be baptized, but the “way” we are baptized has changed because of the accomplished works of Jesus Christ. So, we must pay attention to the context and the Administration that the word is used in. There are times you want to see where there is a concentration of the word used in one section or chapter in the Bible more than anywhere else. When you see this in your studies, God is placing “that” 1 section or chapter as the major usage, and we should pay attention to those above the others.10 I have broken down the usages of the word “tongue(s)” in a “topical” fashion by making “subchapters” in this chapter. The first time the word “tongues” is used in the New Testament is in Mark 16:17. Mar 16:15-17 KJV 15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. 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; The phrase “new tongues” is a perfect first usage. The word “new” in Mark 16:17 is the Greek word: “kainos,” and is pronounced “kahee-nos',” G2537 and means: 1) .. new (especially in freshness).11 The word “tongues” in Mark 16:17 is the Greek word: “glōssa,” and is pronounced “gloce'-sah,” G1100 and means: … the tongue; by implication a 10Nessle, Jon O, (Repetitions-Revealing a Hidden Key to the Heart of Scripture), Next Reformation Publishing Co. Plainfield, IN 2018 11 Strong, James, (The New Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of The Bible, Concise Dictionary of the Greek Testament), Thomas Nelson Publications. 1996, p. 45, ref:2537 2 language (specifically one naturally unacquired): tongue.12 When you put the two definitions together you get: “a new unacquired language” to the person speaking. That fits perfectly with Acts 2:4 “… as the spirit gave them utterance.” They started to speak, and God, via the gift holy spirit gave them the new unacquired language as they spoke one word at a time. At this point in time, (in Mark 16:17), Jesus Christ revealed Himself in His resurrected body, and while talking to the eleven Apostles, He was sharing about a future time where they would have power, and part of that power would allow them to speak in tongues. Which would not be available until the gift holy spirit was given on the Day of Pentecost, a few days after this appearance. At that time, (after the gift of holy spirit would be given), we will need to “believe” (Mark 16:16) to be baptized instead of “being water baptized,” which was only a temporary baptism until the more permanent baptism came, that is, being baptized in the holy spirit. The larger permanent baptism replaces the smaller temporary baptism. Mat 3:11 KJV 12 Ibid., p. 19, ref:1100. 3 11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: Act 19:4-6 KJV 4 Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him (Jesus Christ) which should come after him, (John the Baptist), that is, on Christ Jesus. 5 When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 6 And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied. The water baptism cannot result in the gift holy spirit being given to you. It couldn’t do it then (in the first months and years of the Grace Administration); and it can’t do it now, over 2,000 years into the Grace Administration. Let’s look at the first use at the beginning of the Grace Administration. Which not only records the historical facts of speaking in tongues for the first time. But also teaches us more on “how” to speak in tongues. 4 Act 2:1-4 KJV 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. So, now let’s look at the first use in the Greek. The first use is in Mark 16:17, Mar 16:17 KJV 17 And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; Jesus Christ shared two things that the Apostles would be able to do in the next Administration; from the Day of Pentecost on. They will able to cast out devil spirits and speak in a new kind of tongue. These signs shall accompany the believers. The word “follow” in Mark 16:17 is the Greek word “parakoloutheō,” G3877, and is the verb form, and means: 1) to follow after: 1a) so to follow one as to be always 5 at his side: 1b) to follow close, accompany. 13 The word “follow” is more than a statement of fact, it involves the follower to act within the guidance of the person that they are following. The followers carry out the guidance, the instructions of the person they are following. (Remember, this word is a verb). Just as you would walk beside someone as a friend, and thus, showing others you are associated with that person. By doing what Jesus Christ said we could and should do, in regards to working the power of God in our lives, we will show others that we are associated with Jesus Christ, and walk as if He is always at our side. Speaking in tongues is one those things we are to do as followers, it is a sign to others that we are associated with Jesus Christ in our lives. It shows them that we are the true believers by our words and deeds. In 2nd Timothy 3:10 is a great use of this word. For the context, you must go back to 2nd Timothy 2.1 where Paul lets us know that he is speaking to Timothy, his son in God’s Word. That is how close their relationship was. Paul then proceeds to explain to Timothy to make sure he stays faithful to God’s Word and his calling from God. In chapter three Paul warns Thayer, Joseph Henry D.D., Greek-English Lexicon to the New Testament, Baker Book House, 1977, p 484, ref: 3877 def 1. 13 6 Timothy about those that will not adhere to God’s Word, along with the consequences for not adhering to God’s Word. Then in 2nd Timothy 3:10ff Paul reminds him that everyone that will live God’s Word will suffer persecution, but to keep living The Word of God, because it will make you a perfect man (or woman) of God, unto all good works. Paul reminds Timothy that from a child he knew the scriptures and that they are truly “God Breathed” from the faithful men and women of God who received the revelation to write it down. And that “this” Word of God is profitable for any believer to grow as a believer. Timothy must have had plenty of opportunity and challenges in his life, that Paul needed to write such a long letter of exhortation for him to keep living The Word and continue in the Ministry that God has given him despite all the challenges he faced. 2Ti 3:10 KJV 10 But thou hast fully known (followed) my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, 2Ti 3:12 KJV 12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. 7 The last two verses in 2nd Timothy 3 tell us the goal and purpose of why we “follow” God’s Word, and why we are to “live godly in Christ Jesus” as II Timothy 3:12 states. 2Ti 3:16-17 KJV 16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. So, following the teachings of Jesus Christ is a living reality, not just a quest for knowledge that we praise God for. It is applying the teachings, making them an integral part of our daily life. Speaking in tongues is one such living reality that Jesus Christ instructed us to do as believers from the Day of Pentecost on, as the Apostles did when they first spoke in tongues in the Temple after receiving the gift of holy spirit. The next use (or group of uses) are on The Day of Pentecost, when the Apostles, for the first time in history, spoke in tongues in front of thousands of people that were gathered in and around the Temple around the third hour of the day, which was from 8am-9am in the morning. An hour of prayer for the 8 Day of Pentecost. The following chart is from Wayne Blank.14 Hours Of The Day The term "hour" referred to a period of time, one-twelfth of the daylight part of the day. While daylight is longer in summer than in winter, and therefore summer "hours" were longer than winter "hours," as a general rule the first hour was equivalent to 6 to 7 am on a modern-day clock, and so on: The first hour = 6 to 7 am The second hour = 7 to 8 am The third hour = 8 to 9 am The fourth hour = 9 to 10 am The fifth hour = 10 to 11 am The sixth hour = 11 am to 12 pm The seventh hour = 12 to 1 pm The eighth hour = 1 to 2 pm The ninth hour = 2 to 3 pm The tenth hour = 3 to 4 pm The eleventh hour = 4 to 5 pm The twelfth hour = 5 to 6 pm The very next verse that has the word “tongues” in it and was the fulfillment of Mark 16:17 with the Apostles. This group of verses not only fulfills the promise that Jesus Christ gave them a few days earlier, it also instructs all believers “how to” speak in 14 http://www.keyway.ca/htm2003/20031223.htm 9 tongues. Let’s look at these verses that are grouped around the first outpouring of speaking in tongues and take a closer look at what is revealed in God’s Word. Act 2:2 KJV 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. Act 2:3 KJV 3 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. Act 2:4 KJV 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. Act 2:11 KJV 11 Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God. The second use is in Acts 2:3, I believe has to be combined with Acts 2:2 where there was a sound from Heaven as of a rushing mighty wind. And right after this sound from Heaven, cloven tongues like as a fire sat upon the Apostles, and they were then filled with the gift holy spirit and then they began to speak in tongues as the Spirit (God), gave them the words to speak. Do you see how Acts 2:2-3 are one flowing moment in time? When God ends one Administration 10 and begins another, there are at least two things God does publicly. 1. A sign from Heaven, something visual, like the Dove when John baptized Jesus Christ. This was not only the official start of His Ministry; it was also the beginning of the Christ Administration (still a part of the Law Administration). Which involved the clouds opening and a Dove like formation that lit up Jesus Christ. 2. A voice from happening. heaven declaring what is So, the Day of Pentecost was God’s chosen day to officially close The Law Administration and officially open The Grace Administration that the Old Testament believers looked for and waited for.15 So, then there must be a pattern on The Day of Pentecost, the first day of a new administration that mimics the past beginnings of administrations. And there is, here 1Pe 1:10-12 KJV 10 Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you: 11 Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow. 12 Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into. 15 11 are the events that happened to officially start The Grace Administration. 1. The sound from Heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, a sign from Heaven via hearing, 2. The cloven tongues, a sign from Heaven via seeing, 3. Speaking in tongues, which in effect was just as valid as if God was speaking to the people from Heaven. (A voice from Heaven declaring what is happening via the speaking in tongues). These signs from Heaven are indicating the opening of a new, or next Administration.16 Joh 20:22 KJV 22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost: Then the third use is the fulfilling of these instructions that Jesus Christ gave them in John 20:22. They breathed on (in) and received into manifestation speaking in tongues. The word “on” in John 20:22 is the Greek word “emphusaōv,” G1720, and means: 1) to blow or breathe Nessle, Jon O., (The Summer of Truth, The Revelation of Christ’s Sermon on the Plain), Next Reformation Publishing Co. Plainfield, In. 2014, p. 121-267 16 12 upon.17 Depending on the context, it can be translated “breath in.” It is obvious that Jesus Christ was instructing them how to receive the gift holy spirit. And he was giving them something they could do so they could act on their believing to receive the promise of the gift holy spirit. As soon as the Apostles saw the go sign, they breathed in and started to speak in tongues. I know this because of the other part of the instructions in John 20:22 was to … “receive ye the holy spirit.” The word “receive” in John 20:22 in the Greek, is “lambanō,” G2983, and is the verb form, which means: 1b) to take in order to carry away.18 Being a verb, the carrying away would be the manifesting of what you received. So, the Apostles carried out all the earlier instructions that Jesus Christ had taught them with the result being that they began speaking in tongues and it was witnessed by thousands of worshipers that were gathered at the Temple for the first service. Now I have covered part of the third use of the word “tongues” in this grouping in Acts 2:ff. The last part is teaching us “how” to speak in tongues. Wait a minute, on the very first day of the Grace Administration Meyers, Rick, (Thayer’s Greek Lexicon Dictionary) E-Sword Software version 10.4.0, Copyright © 2000-2014, G1720, def 1. 18 Ibid., G2983, def 1b. 17 13 where Peter delivers one of the greatest sermons that explains what is happening in the Temple, along with why these men are speaking in tongues. God has written within the account of that Day of Pentecost how to speak in tongues as the Apostles did. WHY? Because God wants all born-again believers to speak in tongues in the Grace Administration. Paul, who was killing the new Christians, was converted and was one of the most influential Apostles of all times. Here is what he said about how important speaking in tongues was in his ministry. 1Co 14:18 KJV 18 I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all: In the context, Paul is sorting out for the believers the proper order and usage of speaking in tongues, tongues with interpretation and prophecy. His declaration lets them know that he speaks in tongues all the time. By sharing this part of his life, he is also saying that they should speak in tongues as much as he does. Many times, when a person shares certain aspects of their life with you, in the context of instruction, or 14 reproof (as Paul did), there is a challenge to step up and follow their example. Paul wanted the believers to step up and utilize these three manifestations correctly, especially utilizing speaking tongues correctly in their new Christian life. Paul spent more time explaining speaking in tongues, interpretation of tongues and prophecy than any other of the manifestations in one place. God must think this is very important to get it right and to have Paul write down the instructions for proper usage in a believer’s life. Let’s look at the first instructions to the new believers concerning speaking in tongues as recorded concerning the Day of Pentecost. If we observe what the Apostles did as an example for us to follow, then we can understand what we should be doing after we get born-again. Act 2:4 KJV 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. After they were filled with the gift holy spirit, the Apostles “began to speak with other tongues as the spirit gave them utterance.” What does that mean? I will take some time to show you from the Greek what is being said. 15 The words “they were all” is the one Greek word: “hapas” G537 and means: 1) quite, all, the whole, all together, all. Referring to the Apostles that were all gathered together. 19 (see Acts 1:24-2:1). They chose the twelfth Apostle, (to replace Judas) and then went to the Temple at the third hour of the day, somewhere between 8:00 am and 9:00 am. (see Appendix #2) The word “filled” in the Greek is: “plēthō,” G4130 and means: to fill, (literally or figuratively [imbue, influence, supply]); specifically, to fulfill (time): accomplish, full (. . . come), furnish.20 I underlined the words that best describes the Apostles who were filled with the gift holy spirit just before they spoke in tongues. This was the accomplishment or the fulfillment of the promise from God to be filled with His power and witnessed by thousands of people on the Day of Pentecost in the New Testament. In other words, the word “filled” has a deeper meaning than just receiving the gift holy spirit. It also connotes the fulfillment of God’s promise way back in Gen 3:ff, and hinted at in the Old Testament. The speaking tongues was the proof that God had fulfilled His promise to all of humanity! Thayer, Joseph H., (Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon of the NewTestament), Baker Books House, Grand Michigan, 24th printing. p. 55-56, ref: 537, def 1 20 Strong, James, (The New Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of The Bible), Thomas Nelson Publications. 1996. Greek Dictionary, p. 72, ref: 4130 19 16 Isa 28:11-12 KJV 11 For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people. 12 To whom he said, This (speaking in tongues) is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing: yet they would not hear. The words “Holy Spirit” in Acts 2:4 need a bit more explanation because the words can be talking about “the gift holy spirit” or the “power from God,” as every person is given when they get born-again which also includes eternal life (incorruptible seed). Or they could mean God, so the context is very important to understand to know which use is being mentioned. Luk 24:49 KJV 49 And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high. 1Pe 1:23 KJV 23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible (seed), by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. In the first use in Acts 2:4 of the words “Holy Spirit” is referring to the gift holy spirit, the power from God that was given on the Day of Pentecost, it is “the promise from God,” our spiritual Father, not God! As soon they received the gift holy spirit from God, (the promise from God), they started to speak in tongues. 17 Then the next phrase tells us how they did it, “… as the Spirit gave them utterance.” (In this usage of the word “Spirit” it is referring to God that gives the words to speak to your spirit, that, in turn, your spirit tells your mind what to speak, as you speak). Let’s look at another verse of scripture that Jesus Christ shared with His Apostles while instructing them how to receive revelation from God. Which is related to the operation of any of the manifestations of the gift holy spirit. Jesus Christ gave them the power to cast out devil spirits and to heal the sick later in His ministry and He also needed to instruct them how to receive revelation that was a part of power he gave them. This Great Principle has a lot in common in how to speak in tongues. The only difference is with revelation, you receive all the information first and then act on it. Mat 10:1 KJV 1 And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease. Joh 16:13 KJV 13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of 18 himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. This verse shows you how God talks to the spirit (the gift) that is in you, and then that spirit in you tells your mind what God told it. Then you act on it. That is the technical explanation on how to receive revelation from God. Revelation has three kinds of information that are a part of the gift holy spirit. The Word of Wisdom, The Word of Knowledge, and Discerning of Spirits. 1Co 12:7, 8, 10 KJV 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; 10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; … Now, on the Day of Pentecost, the Apostles spoke in tongues for the first time in history and Acts 2:4b states that they began to speak in tongues as the spirit gave them utterance. We need to look at the order of the words and break it down. We will look at two phrases in Acts 2:4, the first phrase “and began to speak” and “as the Spirit gave them utterance.” The first phrase is the what the believer is responsible for doing, and the second one is what God is responsible for doing. 19 Act 2:4 KJV 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. The word “began” is a key in the first phrase. The Apostles “began to speak” The word “began” in the Greek is: “archomai” G256 and is a verb. It means: 1) to be the first to do (anything), to begin.21 It was the Apostles that began speaking, the gift holy spirit did not force them to speak, they were in complete control, and spoke by their free will. According to this definition, it was the Apostles who were the first to start speaking in tongues. That is the correct order according to the great principle adjusted for speaking in tongues. As soon as the Apostles started to formulate the words by their free will, God began to tell their spirit, and their spirit told their mind what words to say, “as they spoke them.” They did not wait for a few words to “come to their mind” before they started to speak. They just started to speak and the gift holy spirit in them gave them each word as it heard each word from God, and the Apostles spoke them. They kept speaking until they decided to stop, the whole process was by their own freedom of will. Thayer, Joseph H., (Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament), Baker Books House, Grand Michigan, 24th printing. p. 78, ref: 256/257, def 1. 21 20 God did not let them down, when the whole message is complete, the words made perfect sense in the language they spoke. And those in the Temple that understood that language declared that they heard from a Galatian, the wonderful works of God in their own language! Act 2:7-11 KJV 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? 9 Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, 10 Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, 11 Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God. When you speak in tongues, it is God who decides what words you say via the gift holy spirit that is in you. Everything you normally do when you speak remains the same except you don’t think what word needs to come next. God, via the gift holy spirit, will provide each next word “as you speak” in tongues. God will not embarrass you by allowing you to speak gibberish or a bunch of words that make no sense in the tongue you are speaking. That did not happen on 21 the Day of Pentecost, and it won’t happen today either! Speaking in tongues, interpretation of tongues and prophecy all operate in the same manner. As you speak, the words are there via the gift holy spirit that is in you. And although these three manifestations of the gift holy spirit are easy to operate, most people have more trouble operating these, and never learn about how to operate the other six manifestations. The use of these three manifestations are the building blocks for the other six manifestations of the gift holy spirit. They are the building blocks because as you operate these three manifestations you are learning how God works with and you are learning how to distinguish God’s voice from your voice. Which will be necessary to operate the other six manifestations. That’s why Paul took time in 1st Corinthians 14:ff, to fully explain the proper usage of speaking in tongues, interpretation of tongues and prophecy in a believers life, privately and in a fellowship setting. So, the believers would have a good foundation concerning the operating of these basic manifestations, so they can build up themselves in the spirit and build up the church. 1Co 14:3-5 KJV 3 But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort. 22 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. Back to Acts 2:4 The second phrase tells us God’s part in their speaking. “… as the Spirit gave them utterance.” The word “as” in the Greek is: “kathōs” and is an adverb, G2531. And means: 1b) in proportion as, in the degree that.22 God gave them the words in proportion to their speaking. They could stop or continue at any time, and God would supply as many words as needed until the Apostles stopped speaking. With the interpretation of tongues, the speaking in tongues and the interpretation will be about the same length in time. It will have a natural closing or end. The word “utterance” in the Greek is “apophtheggomai” and is a verb, G669. And means: 1) to speak out, speak forth, pronounce.23 That is, God will give you the pronunciation as you speak. You start to form the words; God will give you the rest. Don’t Thayer, Joseph H., (Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament), Baker Books House, Grand Michigan, 24th printing. p. 144, ref: 2531, def 1b. 23 Ibid., p. 68. ref: 669 22 23 worry how each word sounds, that is God’s prerogative to give you each word as you speak to them. Here is better translation per the Greek definitions we just looked at. Act 2:4 KJV And the Apostles were all filled with the gift holy spirit, and the Apostles began speaking in tongues in proportion to God giving them the words to pronounce as the Apostles spoke them. This is very similar to how to receive revelation according to John 16:13 declares but with just a few differences. • You believe to receive revelation • God talks to your spirit • Your spirit talks to your mind via the revelation manifestations • You act on what you were told. Speaking in tongues is: • You believe to speak in tongues • You start to formulate the words • God tells your spirit what word to speak as you begin to speak in tongues. 24 • Your spirit will tell your mind what to say, word by word, until you decide to stop speaking in tongues. • You continue to speak in tongues and God will continue to tell your spirit what to say, and your spirit will continue to tell your mind what to say as you keep speaking until you stop. So, after looking at Acts 2:4, you can now understand your role in what to do when you speak in tongues and understand God’s role in what He does via your gift holy spirit when you speak in tongues. You now have enough information to try it if you have not spoken in tongues and want to. I have covered the benefits that speaking in tongues gives a believer in Appendix #1, and in the sequeal to this book: “20+ Benefits Speaking in Tongues Has for You.”24 Here are some simple instructions to help you learn how to speak in tongues. Please read through the instructions first, then give it a try. • Find a quiet place in your home • As Jesus instructed the Apostles to breathe in to receive the gift holy spirit, breathe in and out a few times, this will also relieve some Arbib, Peter, (20+ Benefits Speaking in Tongues Has For You), Sound Wisdom Publications, Camby, IN. 2018 24 25 • • • • • • • • anxiety a person may have just before speaking in tongues for the first time. Remember that you speak in tongues just like regular speaking with the exception that God will provide you the words “as you start and continue to speak, via the gift holy spirit in you.” Don’t wait for a bunch of words to be there, instead just start speaking and “as you speak” the next word will be there for you speak. God will not do anything that will shame you. Rom 10:11 KJV “For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.” As you keep speaking in tongues, you are believing to receive each word as you speak them. Don’t worry about how each word sounds, that is God’s prerogative on how each word sounds. Okay, breath in for a few seconds and start to speak in tongues, keep speaking as you formulate the words as God’s continues to give your spirit the words for you to speak. Don’t let your mind get in the way, you can start and stop at will if you want. You can hear what you say, but, don’t try to analyze what you say, just keep speaking for a few moments. 26 • You can stop at any moment you want. You are in complete control of your spirit that God has given you. • Now, you have spoken in tongues for the first time. Take a big breath and know that you have spoken the wonderful works of God. 27 ♦ Speaking the wonderful works of God The fourth and fifth use of the word “tongues” is in Acts 2:8, 11 and tells us that the Apostles that were Galileans, spoke over a dozen languages while speaking in tongues. The multitudes were amazed and confused at this outpouring of the gift holy spirit on the Day of Pentecost. They could speak these languages because as they spoke in tongues, because God via the gift holy spirit in them, could give them each word “as” they spoke. Act 2:5-11 KJV 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? 9 Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, 10 Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, 11 Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God. 28 The word “tongues” (shaded above) in verse 8 and verse 11 are two different words in the Greek. One means a dialect, a specific language of a nation or people, the other is more general, an unaquired language. So far, Mark 16:17, and Acts 2:3-4, and Acts 2:11 the word tongue has been the same. And Acts 2:8 uses a different Greek word that implies a specific dialect, a specific language. The people who were gathered in the Temple were from many different areas outside the Jerusalem area and spoke many different languages (dialects). And as declared in Acts 2:8 “they” heard the Apostles speak in their languages (dialects) who did not know any other language than Galilean, their native language. It is important to note that this variety in the Greek word used gives us more information why “as we speak,” it is God that gives us the words to speak via the gift holy spirit. We are responsible “to speak” in an unknown language to us “as we speak,” and God is responsible for “what we speak,” as we speak. So, the language could be a known dialect, but not to us. The possibility that someone or a group of people will understand what you speak is very real when you speak in tongues and interpret in a believers meeting, as it was on the Day of Pentecost. The word “tongues” in Acts 2:8 is the Greek word: G1258 “dialektos,” and is pronounced “dee-al'-ek-tos,” 29 and means: From G1256; a (mode of) discourse, that is, dialect: - language, tongue.25 The word “tongues” in Acts 2:11 is the Greek word: G1100 “glōssa,” and is pronounced “gloce'-sah,” and means: Of uncertain affinity; the tongue; by implication a language (specifically one naturally unacquired): tongue.26 Those in Temple who understood their native dialect being spoken by Galileans were in utter amazement to what they heard. They heard what God had accomplished and that God has fulfilled His promise to redeem man. They heard “the wonderful works” from God. What wonderful works do you suppose they heard? This was The Day of Pentecost, the day that the Law Administration was ended officially, and the Grace Administration started by the giving of the gift holy spirit. The context is clear, and when Peter stood up to speak, he also gave a summation of what God, through the ages had done to get to this great day for all humanity. Act 2:11 KJV 11 Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God. 25 Strong, James, (The New Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of The Bible), (Greek Dictionary of the New Testament) Thomas Nelson Publications. 1996, p. 22 ref:1258 26 Ibid., p. 19 ref:1100. 30 Act 2:14 KJV 14 But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words: Act 2:36 KJV 36 Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ. Not only did the speaking in tongues lay out what God had done to bless all humanity, Peter also explained via the manifestation of prophecy, (which was in Peter’s native language) who Jesus Christ was, and what Jesus Christ did to redeem them as their savior. What a fitting way to end the Law Administration and start the Grace Administration, by giving a summation of the future expectations and promises of the Law Administration and declaring how Jesus Christ fulfilled those expectations and promises that Started the Grace Administration by two distinct ways. Some of The Old Testament believers had “Spirit upon” them temporally, and they had the promise of a future redeemer along with His sufferings, and the glory that would follow. But there was a gap of time between the sufferings and glory that they saw, but, only had hints of that gap. The time span they looked for, started on the Day of Pentecost with the giving of the gift holy spirit. 31 1Pe 1:10-12 KJV 10 Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you: 11 Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow. 12 Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into. The Apostles spoke in tongues “the wonderful works of God,” and Peter gave an in-pronto sermon through the inspiration from God that also declared the wonderful works of God. So, God has in effect, declared to all the people in the Temple that “today” starts a new administration, the one hinted at in the Law Administration, where God’s Grace would be the norm, and God did this twice! So, in this fourth and fifth use, we understand that God can give you any language to speak, and sometimes, there may be people in the meeting that can understand it. And speaking in tongues is speaking the wonderful works of God. It is not cursing God or Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 12:3). 32 ♦ The Gentiles also magnified God The next use of the word “tongues,” (G1100 “glōssa”27) takes place sometime after the original outpouring of the gift holy spirit. Peter received revelation via a vision from God to not call those things which God has cleansed, unclean. Later, Peter, took a few moments to understand the earlier vision and accept that God was making His gift holy spirit available to those outside the Jewish faith. God also sent an Angle via a vision to Cornelius (the gentile) saying his prayers will be answered and will be for a memorial before God, and to send for Peter to explain it to him. Cornelius’s vision: Act 10:1-6 KJV 1 There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band, 2 A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway. 3 He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius. 4 And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy Strong, James, (The New Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of The Bible), (Greek Dictionary of the New Testament) Thomas Nelson Publications. 1996, p. 19 ref:1100 27 33 prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God. 5 And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter: 6 He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do. Peter’s vision: Act 10:9-16 KJV 9 On the morrow, as they went on their journey, and drew nigh unto the city, Peter went up upon the housetop to pray about the sixth hour: 10 And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance, 11 And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending unto him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth: 12 Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. 13 And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat. 14 But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean. 15 And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common. 16 This was done thrice: and the vessel was received up again into heaven. 34 In this record, God is making available His gift of holy spirit to those peoples outside of the Judean Religion for the first time. That is why God had shown Peter by way of a vision not to call anything unclean that God has cleansed. But Peter did not understand that vision until Cornelius told Peter what God had shown him in a vision and that a man called Peter would explain how his prayers would become a memorial to God. Peter then preached about the Lord Jesus Christ becoming the savior of man by the resurrection from the dead, and how God gave the gift of holy spirit on Pentecost. When Cornelius believed, and spoke in tongues moments later, and magnified God, he too was now part of the family of God by way of the new birth when he received holy spirit. Act 10:33-46 KJV 33 Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God. 34 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: 35 But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. 36 The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:) 37 That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; 35 38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. 39 And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree: 40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; 41 Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. 42 And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead. 43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins. 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… The word “magnify” is the Greek word “megalunō,” (G3170), and is pronounced “meg-al-oo'-no” and means: 2) to deem or declare great, 2a) to esteem highly, to extol, laud, celebrate.28 Thayer, Joseph H., (Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament), Baker Books House, Grand Michigan, 24th printing. p. 394, ref: 3170 #2 28 36 How did Peter know that Cornelius was magnifying God when he spoke in tongues? We know on the Day of Pentecost that the Apostles, who spoke Galilean, spoke in at least fourteen different known languages to those in the Temple. So, we know that when a person speaks in tongues, the language can be a known language to some people who are witnessing it. We don’t know for a certainty that Peter did hear his native tongue, but we do know that Peter said he was magnifying God, how did he know that? One of the things speaking does is “magnify” God, as it also declares the “the wonderful works of God” as recorded in the record on the Day of Pentecost. (Acts 2:11). There are two great truths in this record of a Gentile family getting born-again, the first great truth is that: 1. God made available His gift of holy spirit to all of mankind, not just to the Judeans, as in the beginning from the Day of Pentecost up until now. 2. And that the speaking in tongues was the “proof” to Peter and his six witnesses that Cornelius and his fellow travelers were “truly” born-again, that they had indeed received the same gift holy spirit as the Apostle’s did on The Day of Pentecost. 37 Along with these two main truths, we also learn that God is not a respecter of persons. In the Judean world, they were God’s Chosen people and did look on other cultures as common, or unclean. This caused a segregation in society, an attitude among many Judeans. And there were laws passed that did not allow a Judean to be housed in a Gentile home overnight. Peter knew all of this and knew he would be called in question about this incident later. That is why he had six believers accompany him to share with the other leaders of the Church what God had done through Jesus Christ and the resurrection from the dead, that was like the outpouring of the gift holy spirit on the Day of Pentecost, but now with a Gentile family. This opened the rest of the world to be a part of the Family of God. And we must remember that speaking in tongues was expected to happen with the new believers. So, obviously, they must have not only taught about who was Jesus Christ but also what He made available on the Day of Pentecost and how to manifest the new gift holy spirit. I imagine they taught the new believers the same instructions that Jesus Christ taught them days before the Day of Pentecost in His resurrected body on how to speak in tongues. Act 11:2-5, 17-18 KJV 2 And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision contended with him, 38 3 Saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them. 4 But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying, 5 I was in the city of Joppa praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, A certain vessel descend, as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came even to me: … … 17 Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God? 18 When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life. They realized that day, that they were not the “only” chosen group of people of God, but, that all the peoples on the earth had been added to God’s chosen people as they received the gift holy spirit. And that the speaking tongues was the proof that convinced the Apostles that they were born-again because they “heard” them speak in tongues and magnify God. This was the norm for the first century Church when people received the gift holy spirit for the first time; that they were led into speaking in tongues right after they got born-again. We still live in the same Administration as the Apostles did because the next Administration will start with the return of Christ, and since all the bornagain believers have not yet been gathered together to 39 start off the next Administration, we are still living in the Administration that started on The Day of Pentecost. So, we too should be leading new believers into speaking in tongues as soon as they receive the gift holy spirit. This is a great truth that has been lost over the centuries and must be brought back into our current day and time. As we explore the use of speaking in tongues in the book of Acts, we will see more evidence why we should speak in tongues today. 40 ♦ Believers Prophesied for the first time In the fourth record of speaking in tongues, we see that the believers not only spoke in tongues, but they prophesied also under Paul’s ministering. But there was another issue that had not come up yet. The new believers had been born-again, but they have not heard of the gift holy spirit from those that preached to them. So, when Paul reached that area, he found out that they were baptized by the water baptism, not the baptism from the gift holy spirit. What had happened? Well, the teachings of how to be baptized with the gift holy spirit had not yet reached the areas Paul was preaching in. These were new areas, and the local believers taught what they knew, and helped many get born-again, but they did not know about being baptized in the gift holy spirit, so they could not teach about it. Once Paul found out what the problem was, he shared The Word with them so they could have up to date understanding and begin to speak in tongues. Paul also taught them about the manifestation of prophecy, which tells me he most likely taught them the differences from private prayer (speaking in tongues) and building up the church via “prophecy” with these two manifestations. You may want to read the whole account that built up to Acts 19:6 by starting 41 in Acts 18:1ff to get the full context. If you also read I Corinthians 14:1ff, you will see how Paul taught about these two manifestations. In I Corinthians 14:2-4 Paul wrote that speaking in tongues was to build up the person spiritually and to speak to God, and that prophecy was to build up the group of believers in a meeting setting, the church. 1Co 14:2-4 KJV 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. By the time Paul wrote I Corinthians by revelation, he had already been teaching this to many believers in many areas. I believe this is one example of such a teaching on the proper usage of speaking in tongues and prophecy that Paul taught all over. We also see in this record, that Paul was interested in making sure that believers in a group setting were edified, but not by sharing The Word, but by manifesting a word of prophecy, one of the nine manifestations that are a part of the gift holy spirit. (I Corinthians 12:7-11) 42 Act 19:6 KJV 6 And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied. This was just the beginning of a very successful ministry beginning with twelve believers that were first taught by Aquila and Priscilla who brought them “up-to-date” as far who Jesus Christ was, but not the point of getting them to manifest holy spirit. Paul in Acts 19:6, questioned them on the new birth, and found out that they did know about the new birth. Paul then shared the Word about the new birth more completely and taught them to the point where they spoke in tongues and prophesied. This was a turning point in the outreach of God’s Word in Paul’s ministry that started by teaching twelve believers how to speak in tongues and prophecy, as Acts 19:20 declares. Paul also started a leadership training school to fully enlighten those 12 believers that lasted about 2.5 years. It was after their training that The Word of God grew exponentially in the number of believers and in the manifested power of God via the nine manifestations. By Paul teaching them, in the beginning, to also manifest prophecy, he was also teaching them to “give” and “build up” the believers with words from God. 43 As a side note, many times when you open a new area, the first people that really believe The Word you share with them, can become the most important leaders for that area for outreach and stability in the future. Act 19:20 KJV 20 So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed. 44 ♦ Tongues and Prophecy, who profits from each? 1Co 12:10 KJV 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: Let’s look at 1st Corinthians 12:10 a bit closer, this will show us some more detail on these two manifestations in a believer’s life. In this section of Chapter 12, we learn about a general overview of things pertaining to spiritual matters. (1st Corinthians 12:1). Among these spiritual matters, are speaking in tongues and tongues with interpretation listed in verse 10, along with the other seven manifestations. (1st Corinthians 12:7-11). Here we learn that speaking tongues can be many different languages according to what God gives the gift holy spirit in you “as you speak.” There are two different Greek words in verse 10 that are both translated “another.” One means “another of the same kind”, and “another of a different kind.” The word “another” in verses 8-10 is referring back to the word “profit” in verse 7. So, there are nine types of profit to the believer in the nine manifestations. Two of the nine manifestations only benefit (profit) the individual believer who operates those two 45 manifestations, the manifestation of “speaking in tongues” and the manifestation of “believing.” Because “speaking in tongues” builds up the spirit in that person, and the manifestation of “believing” is to do the impossible at the person’s command will benefit the person who operates the manifestation of believing. But the results will benefit others by operating the manifestations of “miracles” and “gifts of healings.” In verse 10, the word “another” in the phrase “…to another divers kinds of tongues” … is the Greek word “heteros” G2087 and is pronounced “het'-er-os, and means: 1a) to number, 1a1) to number as opposed to some former person or thing, 1a2) the other of two.29 That is: “heteros” is used when only two are involved. In this case, the two are God and the person operating the manifestation of speaking in tongues, or the manifestation of believing. The reason that the word “heteros” is used in a numeric meaning (one of the two ways to understand the word), because the listed nine manifestations are in a specific order numerically. And in the Bible, when we look at a list, we should ask ourselves if this list has numeric meaning spiritually. All the listed items “must” conform to each numeric meaning in the order Meyers, Rick, (Thayer’s Greek Lexicon Dictionary), E-Sword Software version 10.4.0, Copyright © 2000-2014, G2087 29 46 they are listed in. That is, the first word in the list, must conform with what number one means spiritually, and so for forth for the rest of the list. So, here with “heteros” (and “allos” later), we shall use the 1st definition that has to do with the number of living beings involved. God and the person who is speaking in tongues. (Definition 1a2 above). If you compare the numeric order of the nine manifestations listed I Corinthians 12:8-10, to the spiritual significance of the numeric order reference (first in the list = #1, second in the list = #2 etc.), you see that the manifestations will agree with their numeric spiritual meaning.30 The reason I am bringing this up, is that in Chapter 2 in this of this book I go through 1st Corinthians 14 in detail as far as who profits from speaking in tongues and prophecy in lemans terms. The numeric order of the manifestations and which Greek word is used for “another” in the list in 1st Corinthians 12:8-10 does not contradict with who profits from these two manifestations. 1st Corinthians 12:10 use of the two different Greek words of “another” give the same information as does 1st Corinthians 14 concerning who profits that explains it in lemans terms. One way we see who profits is the precision of the grammar and 30 Bullinger, E.W. (Numbers in Scripture), Kregel Publications, Grand Rapids, Michigan. Reprint 1994, Part II, p. 50-242 47 Greek words used in God’s Word, the other way is how Paul tells in lemans terms who profits. Isn’t God’s Word just fantastic in how it interprets itself? I would call this is a great “checks and balance” in selfprotecting the original meaning of God’s Word. In Appendix #4 is a list of what some of the order in numbers mean spiritually. The phrase “divers kind of tongues” is the eighth manifestation listed, and the numeric spiritual meaning is copied from “Numbers in Scripture” by E.W. Bullinger:31 “In Hebrew the number eight is hnm# (Sh'moneh), from the root Nm# (Shah'meyn), "to make fat," "cover with fat," "to super-abound." As a participle it means "one who abounds in strength," etc. As a noun it is "superabundant fertility," "oil," etc. So that as a numeral it is the superabundant number. As seven was so called because the seventh day was the day of completion and rest, so eight, as the eighth day, was over and above this perfect completion, and was indeed the first of a new series, as well as being the eighth. Thus it already represents two numbers in one, the first and eighth. Let us first consider the connection between.” The meaning of the word “eight” is to “make fat” or “super abound,” speaking in tongues builds up our inner man.32 But it also means a new beginning, the 31 32 Ibid., The number 8: p. 196-233 I Cor. 14:4a, II Cor. 4:16, Eph. 3:16, Jude 20 48 number one (one + seven) comes into play also. The numeric spiritual meaning is copied from “Numbers in Scripture” by E.W. Bullinger: 33 “It marks the beginning. We must begin with God. All our words and works must be characterized by the first words of the Bible: "In the beginning GOD." Nothing is right that does not begin with Him. "God first" is the voice of Scripture.” On the Day of Pentecost, the Apostles spoke in tongues for the first time that signified “the beginning” of a new era in time, The Grace Administration. We should also look at the number seven (one + seven = eight). Which adds yet more understanding to “divers kind of tongues” as far how our gift holy spirit is a perfect gift from God, and speaking in tongues is a perfect language we speak that God in Christ in us supplies us as we speak in tongues. Seven signifies “spiritual perfection,” the gift holy spirit is a spiritually perfect gift God gives us when we are bornagain. “We come now to the great number of spiritual perfection. A number which, therefore, occupies so large a place in the works, and especially in the Word of God as being inspired by the Holy Spirit.”34 Bullinger, E.W. (Numbers in Scripture), Kregel Publications, Grand Rapids, Michigan. Reprint 1994, The Number 1: p. 50 34 Ibid., Number 7: p. 167 33 49 Therefore, since the word “heteros” is in a list that has spiritual numeric meanings, it is also used in the same way, but according to its own definitions, not just the spiritual numeric meaning. “Heteros” also has a meaning of “quality.”35 That is, two of a different quality are involved, God and the person who speaks in tongues. One is a spirit, one is flesh and bones. The word “heteros” used in the listing of the nine manifestations in verse 10, in verses 7-10, is one of the two uses that only benefit the one who speaks in tongues, and in this verse, we also learn that the tongues can be different languages when you speak in tongues by the words “divers kinds,” or “many kinds.” It does profit from speaking in tongues, and for a complete list, look in “Appendix #1:” “What profit does speaking in tongues in give us today” at the back of this book., speaking in tongues profits the one who is speaking (1st Corinthians 14:4, the primary profit is “who” gets built up). The word “kinds” in verse 10 is the Greek is the word: “genos,” G1085, and is pronounced “ghen'-os,” and means: 1) kindred, 1a) offspring, 1b) family.36 We get the word “genus” from it. That is, it is available to Thayer, Joseph H., (Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament), Baker Books House, Grand Michigan, 24 th printing. p. 254, ref 2087: #2 quality: to quality: “another: i.e. one not of the same nature, form, class, kind, different.” IE: God (is spirit) and Man is flesh and bones). 36 Strong, James, (The New Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of The Bible, Concise Dictionary of the Greek Testament), Thomas Nelson Publications. 1996, p. 19, ref:1085 35 50 have a “genus of tongues,” or have many kinds of languages for an individual believer. On The Day of Pentecost, the twelve Apostles spoke in tongues and spoke collectively in over twelve languages. So, at least one Apostle spoke in more than one language when they spoke in tongues for the first time in the Temple. In verse 10, the word “another” in the phrase “…to another the interpretation of tongues:” … is the Greek word “allos” G243, and is pronounced “al'-los” and means: A primary word; else, that is, different (in many applications): - more, one (another), (an-, some an-) other (-s, -wise).37 That is: “allos” is used numerically when three or more are involved, from another source meaning: Another, numerically but of the same kind in contrast to “heteros,” another, different one38 That is: 1: God, 2: the person operating the manifestation, and 3: at least two others for tongues with interpretation or prophecy. With a person being ministered to, then 1: God, 2: the person ministering, 3: the person being ministering to. To put it another way, the difference between “heteros” and “allos” in this section of I Corinthians Ibid., p. 5, ref:143 Zodhiates, Spiros, Th.D., (The Complete Word Study Dictionary: New Testament), AMG Publishers, Chattanooga, TN., Revised 1993. p. 125-126, ref: 243 plus section II. 37 38 51 12:7-10, is that “heteros” and “allos” are used as numeric differences. “heteros” is used when ONLY TWO are involved: God and you, when you speak in tongues, only you and God are involved, and ONLY you receive the profit that speaking in tongues provides. You get spiritually built up. With the word “allos” in this section, more than two are involved receiving profit. For example, in very simple terms, when a “gifts of healings” is performed, the person who is ministering operates the manifestations of “faith” (heteros), and “gifts of healings” (allos), to bring to pass a healing for the person being ministered to. So, God, you and a 3rd person are involved, and there are two people who are receiving profit. You, the one ministering, receives the profit from operating the manifestation of “faith,” and the person being ministered to receives the profit from you operating the manifestation of “gifts of healings,” (they get healed) and in turn, that healing builds up the body of believers because you and others saw and/or heard of God’s Mercy and Grace in action. In this next usage of the word “tongues,”39 which is used two times in this verse, mentions two of the nine Strong, James, (The New Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of TheBible, Concise Dictionary of the Greek Testament), Thomas Nelson Publications. 1996, p. 19, ref:1100 39 52 manifestations that are given to every man when they get born-again and receive the gift holy spirit. The context of this part of 1st Corinthians 12:ff is cataloging the various gifts that God gives to the church (the group of believers). God tells us that there several groupings of gifts: 1. There are “different” gifts: 1) gift ministries, 2) gift of holy spirit (not the manifestations), 3) Special helps in the church (1st Corinthians 12:4) 2. There are “different” types of service: Apostles, Teachers, Pastors, Evangelists, Helps etc. (1st Corinthians 12:5, 28) 3. There are “differences” in how each gift is operated. It is God’s who energizes the power and how He communicates with you. (1st Corinthians 12:6) As we read this chapter, we will see that Paul is writing via revelation from God, how God has divided up the type of gifts that He gave to the church to help the believers grow in The Word, and for the church to grow in The Word. This chapter makes a distinction and separates what God has given to each believer and what He has given to the church. This is important to keep separate, so we can rightly divide this section and know what God has given to us as individual believers to operate in our daily lives, 53 and what God has given to the church to help the believes move as a unified group growing in the knowledge and power in God’s Word in a local community as they spread The Word. In 1st Corinthians 12:10, there are two manifestations that involve speaking in tongues. One of them (speaking in tongues) 40 is to build up the individual believer spiritually. And the other is for building up the church, 41 the group of believers in the room (tongues with interpretation). The theme is the same with these two uses as it is with this chapter. That is, there are two main categories of believers that need to be built up; the individual believer and the group of believers. For all the believers to flourish in any area, both categories of “building up” are necessary. 1Co 14:4 KJV 4 He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth (builds up) himself; … 41 1Co 14:27 KJV 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 (that same) one interpret. 1Co 14:12 KJV 12 Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying (or building up) of the church. 40 54 ♦ Spiritual matters that profit the church (the group of believers) 1Co 12:28 KJV 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. In the next use of the word “tongues” is the same phrase as used in 1st Corinthians 12:10 and adds an interesting twist to who receives the profit. I Corinthians 12:10, we see that speaking in tongues is profitable to the person who does the speaking, and not to the body of believers. Yet here, “kinds/diversities of tongues” is listed with gifts and helps to bless and build up the church, the group of believers. 1st Corinthians 12:12-28 gives us an illustration using our body to illustrate how each believer is just as important the next believer. We are all an important part individually to the group of believers as a whole because of our contribution and abilities from the application and of God’s Word and the manifestations of holy spirit in our life. But, an “illustration”42, a type of figure of speech, that has a deeper truth when we remember what the main topic of 1st Corinthians 12:ff 42 Bullinger E.W., (Figures of speech used in the Bible), Baker Book House, Grand Rapids Michigan, 16th printing. “parabola” p. 751 55 is talking about, that is: spiritual matters; the different spiritual abilities God gives the believers and church. So, this “illustration” is talking about the “gifts of God’s grace,” all of them, the gift ministries, helps, and the gift holy spirit inclusive. But the metaphor about the human body is still valid concerning the levels of respect from the believers towards those with or without different abilities. The church at Corinth did have their problems with “respect of persons,” which is why it is mentioned, 1st and 2nd Corinthians are “reproof” Epistles to correct an error in the believer’s minds and actions. I believe 1st Corinthians 12:12-30 is also a parenthesis 43 because it is an illustration, and typically illustrations are an added inclusion for an explanation that is placed “inside” a section with one topic, with verses 29 and 30 asking some questions after the illustration. Verse 31 can follow the flow from verse 11 in the sense that even though we are the ones who wills to operate any parts of what God has given us, we are to desire to be motivated by God’s love first and foremost in what is needed to be manifested by our choice. 43 Ibid., “parenthesis” p. 470 56 The illustration is talking about not only about each believer that operates God’s power is as important as the next believer. But that the same is true with the different gifts of grace from God; the gift ministries, the helps, and the gift holy spirit. Each of the abilities that God has given us is just as important as the next ability God has given us. The gift ministries are not to be held in higher esteem than the manifestation of prophecy, for instance. Here is 1 Corinthians 12:12-30. 1Co 12:12-30 KJV 12 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. 13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. 14 For the body is not one member, but many. 15 If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? 16 And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? 17 If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? 18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. 19 And if they were all one member, where were the body? 20 But now are they many members, yet but one body. 57 21 And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you. 22 Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary: 23 And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness. 24 For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked: 25 That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. 26 And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. 27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. 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? No one believer is more important than the next when it comes what they contribute to the body of believers. We are all a vital part of the body of Christ, and whatever our contribution is, it is just as needed as the next person’s contribution. 58 But the larger truth is that “the parts” of body is what God has given us spiritually as individuals, (verse 28) and what God has given the church via the gift ministries, helps, and the gift holy spirit that is manifested in full, are all equally important for the growth of the individuals and the body of believers. This chapter is all about spiritual matters, pertaining to the individual believer who operates the different spiritual abilities they have from God, and pertaining to the group of believers, the church. So, this “hypocatastasis”44 (the strongest form or emphasis of a metaphor) is quite special, it uses the parts of the body as the main subject to argue that everyone is as important as the next person in the church, but the context before and after this “hypocatastasis” is talking about the different spiritual gifts given to the individual and to the church by God. So, just how the believers are to work together in harmony to build up themselves and the body of believers, the spiritual gifts (gift ministries, helps, the gift of holy spirit), are to be applied “by” the believers to bless and build up the body of believers, the church, without respect of persons concerning their contributions or spiritual abilities they manifest. 44 Bullinger E.W., (Figures of speech used in the Bible), Baker Book House, Grand Rapids Michigan, 16th printing. p. 744 59 It is in these spiritual gifts, where none of them are to be held higher in regard than the next. They are all equally important in the bigger scheme of things. This section (1st Corinthians 12:12-28) is also teaching us to be humble, and respect everyone because we are all part of the Body of Christ with a common goal. Then we have 1st Corinthians 12:29-30 which are rhetorical questions,45 that is; they are not meant to answered because there is no answer, or the answer is obvious from the context. In these verses the answer is obvious, not everybody has all the gifts of God’s grace (in the church), not everybody has a long-suit in miracles (in the church), not everybody speaks in tongues (in the church). The context in 1st Corinthians 12:ff is operating these abilities in a gathering of believers in the church to build up the body, so this verse must fit with that also. 1st Corinthians 12:11 says that each believer “wills” to operate not only the manifestations of holy spirit but also the gift ministries so the church can be built up. The best ability’s “to will” to operate are the ones that will bless the body of believers best. Merriam-Webster online dictionary, “rhetorical,” def: b: employed for rhetorical effect; especially: asked merely for effect with no answer expected <a rhetorical question>. http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rhetorical 45 60 The major topic that chapter 12 is teaching us about, is “spiritual matters” and the different kind of gifts that God “gave the church,” and “the gift of holy spirit” that God gave to everyone. Even though God gave all this to bless us and to build us up, we are to have a different attitude about how to apply them in our lives and within the body of believers. Not because “we are” some great teacher called by God, or because “we are” some great believer that has a long-suit in healing. But we are to be humble and apply these in our life with God’s love in our hearts to bless the body of believers as our ultimate goal. I Corinthians 12:28 says God sets up ministries in the church, and that manifestations also are used in the church. So, the context in verses 29 and 31 are talking about spiritual abilities used in the church, a group of believers in a meeting setting. 1Co 12:29-31 KJV 29 Are all apostles? (in the church: no) are all prophets? (in the church: no) are all teachers? (in the church: no) are all workers of miracles? (in the church: no) 30 Have all the gifts of healing? (in the church: no) do all speak with tongues? (in the church: no) do all interpret? (in the church: no) 31 But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way. The next use of speaking in tongues is in a set of verses that is set up as a rhetorical question, that is, you are not looking for an answer, but an opportunity to talk 61 about them. Putting emphasis on that all these gifts and manifestations are used and needed in the church, but not all of them are present all the time or at the same time. Just as the other gifts and manifestations, speaking in tongues has its proper time to use when there is a need to best bless the believer. Are all these ministries operating in the church at the same time? Are all the manifestations of the gift holy spirit operating in the church all the time? Covet the gifts and manifestations that will best meet the needs of the church, yet there is a better way that is talked about in 1st Corinthians 13:ff Chapter 13 shows us that we are to have a different attitude rather than coveting what is needed by the church, we are to be motivated by God’s love in us, instead of being motivated by what gift from God or what manifestation of holy spirit we think is needed in the church. When we are to be motivated by God’s love to serve, God will show us what is needed to serve most effectively, and because we have a genuine concern to help and bless those with us, we will believe to operate whatever spiritual ability is needed to meet that need. 62 ♦ God’s love motivates us, not our calling or spiritual abilities. 1Co 13:1-2 KJV 1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. Even though speaking in tongues does profit the one who is speaking in a technical sense, God wants us to speak in tongues with His love towards others as our motivation. 1Co 13:1-3 KJV 1 … and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. 2 … and have not charity, I am nothing. 3 … and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. 1. V1: I become like a musical instrument without a tone to play…it is just making noise. 2. V2: I am become nothing. 3. V3: It does not profit me. These three things are basically telling us we are going through the motions without any heart, with the wrong motivation. 63 God wants us to have the right heart, the right attitude when we serve God’s people so that there is a maximum benefit to all parties involved. Serving others motivated with God’s love will never fail us or others, that is the main topic of 1st Corinthians 13:ff. The manifestations one day will no longer be available, one day, all knowledge (including the manifestation of “word of knowledge”), will be gone, as well as the other eight manifestations. Now, we have limited power and knowledge when we operate the manifestations, so, God’s love in us will take up the slack. 1Co 13:8 KJV 8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. 1Co 13:12 KJV 12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. There are three main topics in I Corinthians 13 that we can see when we look at repetitions of a “word” or “phrase.” Let’s look at them to see what God deems important for us to know in this chapter. 1Co 13:1-3 KJV 64 1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. 3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. So, what is important in these three verses? I also see two sets of sub-topics mentioned. The first set of topics I have already listed above. It is what is said after the phrase “and have not charity.” This shows that the individual will not profit. That is, even though they are “doing” the right thing, their heart is wrong, and any personal benefits that would be gained by God, are not. 1. V1: I become like a musical instrument without a tone to play…it is just making noise. 2. V2: I am become nothing. 3. V3: It does not profit me. But there’re also three other topics that are involved. Two are about building up the individual or the church via the operating the manifestations, and one is about charitable giving from a person, financial help, or physical help. 65 1. V1: Building up yourself via speaking in tongues. This can’t be about your spirit being built up, but the blessings you receive because of the speaking in tongues. Without God’s love as the true motivation, you will short yourself the full blessing of God, spiritually and mentally, and become like a musical instrument that is just making noise without a song to sing. 2. V2: Building up the church, the body of believers. This verse is about operating the manifestations that bless the body of believers, and if a person does not have the right motivation of giving because of God’s love in their heart, then, the person operating these manifestations becomes nothing. The believers are blessed, but the individual does not receive the maximum that he could. 3. V3: The person who is very charitable in secular gifts, financial and in personal volunteering for good causes, but they don’t do it out of a heart of love. Instead, they do it for social acceptance and status, for elevating their ego and for the praise of those in their circles. They too will not receive the full blessings that giving with a heart of God’s love that is available to them. 66 All three ways of giving are done without God’s love, they are all going through the motions of giving that does have some profit, but not all the available profit that God could give if their heart was motivated by God’s love in giving. So, if we want to benefit with all the available blessings God has made available to us as we speak in tongues, or prophecy, or performing miracles, or being very charitable, we need to be motivated by God’s love in our hearts to maximize our blessings. The next grouping of repetitions is the word “charity” in 1st Corinthians 13:4-8. It lists what charity “is not,” so we can know what kind of motivations we are not to engage in when we serve others. I have added the implied word “charity” in verses 5-7 in parentheses, which is also another type of figure of speech of “omission.” It is obvious that the word “charity” can be correctly supplied at the beginning at each phrase since this is a listing of things that “charity is not,” and is listed one phrase after another. They are omitted on purpose to avoid a monotonous repetition of the word “charity” so that reading these verses have a better flow along with a better understanding. The greyed words are in the verse. 67 1Co 13:4-8 KJV 4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, (charity) is not puffed up, 5 (charity) Doth not behave itself unseemly, (charity) seeketh not her own, (charity) is not easily provoked, (charity) thinketh no evil; 6 (charity) Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; 7 (charity) Beareth all things, (charity) believeth all things, (charity) hopeth all things, (charity) endureth all things. 8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. So here is the list of things that “charity” is not. Remember, Paul was reproving the Corinthians in their misuse or improper use of what God has given them, along with their attitudes and motives in serving God’s people. So, these verses are very telling for us to learn what attitudes and motives we are to “NOT” have. Charity is/does not: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. V4a: Does not envy (is not jealous) V4b: Is not self-boasting V4c: Is not puffed up (no self-glorying ego) V5a: Does not act inappropriately V5b: Does not seek self-importance 68 6. V5c: Is not easily angered (but you can still get angry) 7. V5d: Does not dwell on or consider evil 8. V6a: Does not cheer injustice This list can teach us a lot about what is motivating us, God’s love for others, or this list above. Just as speaking in tongues can bless us more if operated because we love God, so, in anything we do that is motivated by God’s love in us will have maximum benefits to all involved. Verses 6b to 8a show us what “charity,” The Love of God does do for us! It not a long list, but it is powerful in how it blesses the body of believers, full of Mercy and Grace. The bottom line is that all believers involved should profit to the maximum to what God can to give when we are motivated by God’s love. Charity is: 1. V6b: charity cheers in truth 2. V7a: charity helps cover a believer’s faults, (not as in lying about it, but gets involved to help others out). 3. V7b: charity has confidence in believers that walk upright 4. V7c: charity has hope 69 5. V8a: charity never fails, it will never let us down. It is the nature of our spirit; it is a permanent part of our spirit. (Where the manifestations are a temporary part of our spirit) In verses 8b-12 we see that the things that God has given us spiritually will one day cease to exist. Gift ministries, manifestations, etc. are just “childish things,” “toys,” until we grow up to adulthood at Christ’s Return in the future. The only thing that will not cease, is God’s love in our lives, now, and then. God’s love will never fail, it will never let us down, it will be with us even in eternity with God, and His son Jesus Christ, with all the believers. That is why “charity,” God’s love is the greatest or strongest of the three listed things in verse 13, “faith,” “hope,” and “charity.” Faith and hope will no longer be needed after the return of Christ, The Gathering Together. 1st Corinthians 13 is placed between chapter 12 and 14, where chapter 12 expounds on things that pertain to the spirit or spiritual endowments that are given by God in different capacities, for the church, and for the individual. These are the all the spiritual gifts that God makes available, the “gift ministries,” “helps” in the body, and the “gift holy spirit.” And chapter 14 expounds on how to operate the gift of holy spirit most effectively for your private life, and within the 70 church, with the other members of the body, so everyone receives a blessing. Chapter 13 ties the two chapters together by sharing that the best way to bless everyone, that is to be motivated to help and bless them with the love God gave us and impart it to them. That is the right attitude to serve the believers with. That will never fail, acting with God’s love will never let us down. 71 2: That the Church may receive edifying 1Co 14:5 KJV 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. In the next eight subchapters I am going to handle all the uses of the word “tongues” that are in 1st Corinthians 14:ff as a study on the whole chapter so we can understand this chapter, and why it is so important to us in today’s day and time. The next two uses of “tongues” is in 1st Corinthians 14:5-6 and it is in the context of wanting to build up the church, the group of believers in a fellowship meeting. Paul wants all the believers to speak in tongues, but, more and more, he wants them to operate the manifestation of prophecy or interpretation of tongues, because then the group of believers in a meeting scenario will be built up. But first, we need to look at the first few verses of this chapter. There is a lot to digest in this section as far the differences in speaking in tongues, and tongues with interpretation or prophecy concerning the topic of “edifying the church.” 72 1Co 14:1-6 KJV 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? 1st Corinthians 14:1-6 preps us on why we need to increasingly endeavor to build up the group of believers, more than just learning how to speak in tongues and stopping at that point but maturing in God’s love and in the application of the various manifestations, because our goal will be to build up the church. 1st Corinthians 14:1 links this whole chapter back to 1st Corinthians 13, the chapter on being motivated by God’s love so we can impart it to others. It also teaches us the right attitudes we should have as believers in 73 service to the church as we correctly operate, speaking in tongues, tongues with interpretation and prophecy; the main topic of 1st Corinthians 14:ff. But there is more because 1st Corinthians 12 is also linked to 1st Corinthians 13. In 1st Corinthians 12:31 and 14:1 there is a repetition that is used as a “bookend.” A bookend connects whatever is “between” the “bookends.” The bookend words are “covet” in 1st Corinthians 12:31 “But covet earnestly the best gifts: ...” and the word “desire” in 1st Corinthians 14:1 “Follow after charity, and desire spiritual…” These two words (covet and desire) are the same Greek word “zēloō” which make up the bookends with 1st Corinthians 13 as the important section that both 1st Corinthians 12 and 14 are operated within. We get the English word zealous from this Greek word. The words “covet” and “desire” is the same Greek word: G2206, “zēloō,” and is pronounced “dzay-lo'-o,” and means: 1) to burn with zeal; 1a1) in a good sense, to be zealous in the pursuit of good; 1b) to desire earnestly, pursue46 God has set a “Bookend”47 at the end of chapter 12, and at the beginning of chapter 14 to do two major Meyers, Rick, (Thayer’s Greek Lexicon Dictionary), E-Sword Software version 10.4.0, Copyright © 2000-2014, G2206 47 Nessle, Jon O, (Repetitions-Revealing a Hidden Key to the Heart of Scripture), Next Reformation Publishing Co. Plainfield, IN. 2018 46 74 things. One; to tie chapter 13 to both chapter 12 and 14, and two; to show us that our main desire or zeal should be to live God’s love foremost towards others, no matter what our calling is in the church, the body of believers. So, we see that chapters 12, 13, and 14 are to read as one main unit with chapter 13 connecting what God has given us, (chapter 12), and how we are to utilize what God has given us (Chapter 14), having a strong desire (a zeal) to serve the body of believers being motivated by God’s love in our heart. Now, in verses 2, 3, and 4 we have a contrast of “who are you talking to with speaking in tongues,” and “who are you talking to with prophecy or interpretation of tongues.” And who receives the profit from each. And in verses 5 and 6 we see a contrast in a logical argument as to why we should speak in tongues with interpretation or prophecy over just speaking in tongues “in a group of believers and non-believers” that are present. The main goal is to build up the group of believers and/or non-believers with the words you speak. Then in 1st Corinthians 14:7-32 we read a more in-depth logic of verses 2-6, that I will cover in the next chapter. Right now, we need to look at a large repetition of the same Greek word. Whenever we see a large concentration of a single word or phrase within a few verses, chapter, or book, God is marking this area in 75 LARGE PRINT and BOLD, so we slow down and read it with an attitude of importance. This large concentration or grouping will be the main topic of this section or chapter, and possibly influence other remote uses of the word or phrase in the bible.48 This is the difference in how ancient Eastern languages compared to modern English show sentence divisions, paragraph divisions in how they write. In English, we have punctuations and line spacing’s that divide subject matter into easier reading components. In the ancient Greek and Aramaic and Hebrew, there are no punctuations (periods, coma’s, etc.), or any separation between words. So, when you read these languages, you not only have to separate each word from the continuous line of letters without any spacing between them, but you must also supply, as you read, all the punctuation to divide sentences and paragraphs. So how do the languages tell the reader when a sentence ends? Or when a new paragraph begins? Or show us what is important as we read? The main way is repetitions, depending on where and how they are used, will give us natural breaks or areas that guide us on how to divide the text into sentences and paragraphs. But they also divide subjects from each other. This is one of the ways that these ancient languages must guide Nessle, Jon O, (Repetitions-Revealing a Hidden Key to the Heart of Scripture), Next Reformation Publishing Co. Plainfield, IN. 2018 48 76 us as we read them. The writers must use grammatical anomalies, (like repetitions) in the form of figures of speech in place of punctuation’s that do not exist in these languages. There are also suffixes and prefixes and other grammatical additions to a word that can change and guide us when we are reading these languages. Here is a photo of a Greek Septuagint. Notice that there are no separations for words or periods on each line. The reader is responsible to separate the words as they read it.49 So, when you see a pattern of repetitions, this helps you separate one sentence or paragraph from another. Which helps you see important topics. Here is what English would like if we wrote the way the ancient Greek or Hebrew was written like. 49 Photo from Google Search/Images (Greek Septuagint) 77 hereiswhatenglishwouldlikeifwewrotethewaythea ncientgreekorhebrewwaswrittenlike When we look at the repetition of the words in the Greek that are translated: “speaketh,” “spake,” “speaking” or “speak” in verses 2, through 6, we will see what God marks as important for us to know. Repetitions mark an area like bold print, they encompass “lists,” “other groupings” and “main topics” that God wants us to pay attention to. Showing us what is important for us to know in that chapter or section “by” the use of a repetition of a word, (the Greek or Hebrew word) or phrases, either structured or unstructured. If you are ever in question what a chapter or section main topic is, look for repetitions of a word or phrase in that chapter or section.50 Here is 1st Corinthians 14:2-6 in the Greek with verse and word spacing, which has been added by the Greek text translators. I will highlight the Greek word “laleo” or it’s derivatives that are translated into different English words. 2 ὁ γὰρ λαλῶν γλώσσῃ οὐκ ἀνθρώποις λαλεῖ ἀλλὰ θεῷ, οὐδεὶς γὰρ ἀκούει, πνεύματι δὲ λαλεῖ μυστήρια · Nessle, Jon O, (Repetitions-Revealing a Hidden Key to the Heart of Scripture), Next Reformation Publishing Co. Plainfield, IN. 2017 50 78 3 ὁ δὲ προφητεύων ἀνθρώποις λαλεῖ οἰκοδομὴν καὶ παράκλησιν καὶ παραμυθίαν. 4 ὁ λαλῶν γλώσσῃ ἑαυτὸν οἰκοδομεῖ · ὁ δὲ προφητεύων ἐκκλησίαν οἰκοδομεῖ. 5 θέλω δὲ πάντας ὑμᾶς λαλεῖν γλώσσαις, μᾶλλον δὲ ἵνα προφητεύητε · μείζων δὲ ὁ προφητεύων ἢ ὁ λαλῶν γλώσσαις, ἐκτὸς εἰ μὴ διερμηνεύῃ, ἵνα ἡ ἐκκλησία οἰκοδομὴν λάβῃ. 6 Νῦν δέ, ἀδελφοί, ἐὰν ἔλθω πρὸς ὑμᾶς γλώσσαις λαλῶν, τί ὑμᾶς ὠφελήσω, ἐὰν μὴ ὑμῖν λαλήσω ἢ ἐν ἀποκαλύψει ἢ ἐν γνώσει ἢ ἐν προφητείᾳ ἢ ἐν διδαχῇ;51 The variations are suffixes that pertain to the tense: past, current, or future and therefore will be translated accordingly. The root word is “laleo.” In the ancient Greek, Hebrew, or Arabic you use all the variations of the root word when looking for repetitions. Let’s see what God has marked as important by using a repetition of a word nine times in five verses. The words “speaketh,” “spake,” “speaking” or “speak” are between phrases that tell us the “who,” “what” or “why” three of the nine manifestations are best utilized. The words “speaketh,” “spake,” “speaking” or “speak” are the same Greek word G2980: “laleō,” pronounced “lal-eh'-o,” is the verb form, and means: 51 SBL Greek New Testament 79 1) to utter a voice or emit a sound, 2) to speak, 2a) to use the tongue or the faculty of speech, 2b) to utter articulate sounds.52 So, let’s look at the phrases between the repeated words “speaketh,” “spake,” “speaking” or “speak” are so we can see what God wants us to learn. 1. About speaking in tongues a. V2: Speaks an unknown tongue b. V2: Speaks to God, not man (no man understands, because of 1c.) c. V2: Speaks mysteries with God. d. V4: Builds up themselves spiritually e. V5: Everyone should speak in tongues 2. About prophecy (it is in the known language) a. V3: Speaks unto men (their known language), all people present. b. V3: Speaks words that build up the people present c. V3: Speaks words that exhort or encourages the people present. d. V3: Speaks words that comfort the people present. Meyers, Rick, (Thayer’s Greek Lexicon Dictionary), E-Sword Software version 10.4.0, Copyright © 2000-2014, G2890 and the paperback version listed below for a more complete definition: 52b Thayer, Joseph H., (Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament), Baker Books House, Grand Michigan, 24 th printing. p. 368, ref: 2980 def:1 and 2 respectively. 52 80 e. V4: Speaks words to build up the church, the body of believers. In 1st Corinthians 14:5 we see “why” you should bring forth a word of prophecy or tongues with interpretation in a group of believers instead of speaking in tongues out loud with a group of believers. A believer who has matured spiritually in learning how to operate the manifestations as well as being motivated by God’s love to give is expected to operate prophecy or tongues with interpretation more and more with a group of believers, so that all the believers are built up, which is the main topic of 1st Corinthians 14:ff. In 1st Corinthians 14:6 we see that unless we speak by revelation, or by word of knowledge or by prophecy or by doctrine, there is no profit to the believers who are present and hear you speak in tongues, because they can’t understand the language. Speaking in tongues in front of a group of believers or others in the group does not build up that group, which is the goal being taught in this section. When a person speaks in a group, the goal for that person is to make sure that the group is built up by the words they speak, so they will need to speak in the 81 language of the group. Which they will because it is a natural human tendency to keep company with other people who speak the same language you speak. I don’t think you will go to a group of believers that speak German if you only speak French, you would not know what they are saying. How could you be built up in that group of believers that speak German when you only understand French? This break down is what the phrases between the repeated words “speaketh,” “spake,” “speaking” or “speak” are emphasizing. They show us the differences and the proper uses of speaking tongues, and tongues with interpretation or prophecy. And since this chapter is all about building up the church, it makes total sense that the first thing Paul covers are the differences with these three manifestations that involve “speaking.” These three manifestations are our spiritual foundation to learn how to operate the other six manifestations most effectively. So, it is imperative that we learn and master these three manifestations. In 1st Corinthians 12:11b, we learn that the person with holy spirit “wills” to operate any of the nine manifestations. God does not force you to operate any of the nine manifestations. 1Co 12:11 KJV 82 11 …dividing to every man severally as he will. The word “severally” has caused no end in confusion when trying to rightly divide this verse. Just as not applying the simple rules of grammar concerning a pronouns association with it closest associated noun. Let’s look at word “dividing” in the Greek, and then “severally,” and the word “as,” and then the pronoun “he” which is associated with closest noun “man.” The word “dividing” is the Greek word G1244: “diaireō,” and is pronounced “dee-ahee-reh'-o,” and means: From G1223 and G138; to separate, that is, distribute: - divide. 53 More accurately, distribute. The word “severally” is the Greek is: G 2398 “idios,” and is pronounced “id'-ee-os,” and means: 1) pertaining to one’s self, one’s own, belonging to one’s self.54 This word is also translated “his own” or “one’s own” Here it is not talking about God giving you a manifestation, but it is associated with the phrase “as he wills.” It is by the man’s own will that he wills to speak in tongues, or any of the other eight manifestations. Strong, James, (The New Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of The Bible, Concise Dictionary of the Greek Testament), Thomas Nelson Publications. 1996, p. 22, ref: 1244 54 Ibid., p. 42, ref: 2398 53 83 The word “as” in the Greek is: G2531 “kathōs,” and is pronounced “kath-oce',” and means: From G2596 and G5613; just (or inasmuch) as, that: - according to, (according, even) as, how, when.55 He is a quick translation according to the Greek definitions we just looked at. 1Co 12:11 KJV 11 … distributing to every man, his own, according to the mans will. So, the “distribution” of all nine manifestations is to every man, according to the man’s will, or as the man wills to operate any of the nine manifestations. The pronoun “he” is associated with the closest associated noun, “man,” and can be interchanged. That is; the person with the gift holy spirit, wills to operate each manifestation as it is needed in private prayer life, or when needed for the edification of the believers, or for ministering to anyone. God does not force you to operate any of the nine manifestations. It is very important to separate, in our understanding that “the nine manifestations” are NOT the gift of holy spirit, but they are “the evidence of the gift of holy spirit” in you. The gift is “holy spirit” that every born-again believer receives. The only gift from God 55 Ibid., p. 42-43, ref: 2531 84 that God gives to every believer. And every bornagain believer has the ability by their willingness to evidence any of the nine manifestations as needed. The “gift ministries” and “helps” are given to the body of believers in a limited fashion that some believers receive to bless and build up the church. Also, the men and women that are given a gift ministry, “are not” the gift, but the gift ministry is the gift. The man or woman evidences the gift ministry as they are willing to operate it in the church also by the gift holy spirit. The manifestations are the evidence of the gift by the willingness of the person to operate them in their life. Once they find out that it is available, and that it is their freedom of will that is needed to operate it, and they learn how to speak in tongues, it is a simple matter to start to speak in tongues. Then they can start to understand that they have received “the gift holy spirit,” and that by their freedom of will to evidence that gift by operating any of the manifestations that make up the gift is needed. It is “as the man wills” to operate them, or more accuracy, “according to” the man’s own willingness or desire. The gift holy spirit is subject to the person who has the gift holy spirit. All born-again believers have the gift holy spirit. In the phrase in John 16:13 “… for he shall not speak of himself;…” God tells us that 85 the gift holy spirit has no self-will. The gift holy spirit has no will of its own, if you want to speak in tongues, YOU will/desire to speak in tongues by starting to speak in tongues. It is at that point that God energizes your spirit to teach your mind what you say as you speak, for example. The pronoun “he” below is “the spirit of truth” or the gift holy spirit. The great principle works for revelation, and for the worship manifestations “as you speak,” all by your will to operate them as needed. Joh 16:13 KJV 13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. It is interesting that speaking in tongues, tongues with interpretation and prophecy involve us to “talk” or “speak,” out loud or to ourselves while the other six do not involve “talking” out loud but involve listening or acting from what you heard in your thoughts or other ways. The main things we learn on how to believe to speak in tongues, tongues with interpretation and prophecy are that when we are learning to speak in tongues, we are learning how God teaches our spirit, and our 86 spirit, in turn, teaches our mind “what” to say, “as we talk.” The same is true when we interpret tongues and prophecy. We are learning how to listen to God and manifest what to say, “as we speak.” And because it is audible, we can hear what God has taught our spirit, and what our spirit has taught our mind “as we speak.” The three revelation manifestations56 are similar, expect, we get the information all at once, they are just like our own thoughts, but, they are from God. Then with the three action manifestations57, we carry out the instructions from what heard from the revelation manifestations. We learn “what” to listen for in our thoughts and how to speak them “as we speak.” That is why these three “speaking” manifestations are our foundation to learn how to operate the other six. And we learn that we can operate these three manifestations “at our will,” just like the other six are manifested, “at our will.” It is important that we understand that God does not force us or possess us to operate any of the nine manifestations, or any of the gifts to the church via the gift ministries or helps that are given by God to men or women who “will to” operate them to build up the church. 56 57 Word of wisdom, word of knowledge, discerning of spirits Faith, gifts of healings, miracles 87 We “will” to operate the manifestations of the gift holy spirit, and the other gifts to the church. (Gift ministries, helps). It is by our freedom of will that we decide to operate the manifestation of speak in tongues, or bring forth a word of prophecy, or receive revelation from God, or perform a gifts of healings and/or miracle. Those that have been given other gifts like gift ministries by God’s choice, must also “will” to operate that ministry in their life to bless the believers. A believer could have the gift ministry of a teacher, but, if they don’t study and have a burning desire “to” teach others, then they won’t see that ministry grow in serving the church. God does not force you to teach others, it must be by your own willingness to teach what you are seeing in God’s Word as you study. 1Co 12:7 KJV 7 But the manifestation (nine in total) of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. 1Co 12:11 KJV 11 But all these (the different gifts of grace of V4,5 and 6, and the nine operations of V7-10) worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he (the man) will. 88 1Co 14:32 KJV 32 And the spirits (the gift holy spirit in them) of the prophets are subject to the prophets. (the prophet {believer} has control over their spirit from God) 89 ♦ 1st Cor. 14:2-5. The logic of when to speak in tongues or prophecy expounded In 1st Corinthians 14:2-4 we see a very simple contrast between speaking in tongues and prophecy as far as “who” is edified (built up). Chapter 14’s main topic is that the church receives the edifying as stated in verse five. 1Co 14:2-4 KJV 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. 1Co 14:5 KJV 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. Even in verse one, prophecy is preferred more than speaking in tongues, so it is obvious the main context is in a place where a group of believers and possibly new people are gathered, and a place where they are expecting to hear the Word of God. And although we are to do all things with God’s love towards others, in 90 the church, the body of gathered believers, God wants us to make sure that everyone is edified, built up. And the best way to do that within the context of this chapter is to operate two of nine manifestations where God can have a message directly to everybody in the room in the common language of the people present. Speaking in tongues with interpretation and prophecy are those two manifestations God gave us just for that purpose within His gift of grace, holy spirit. Yes, teaching God’s Word will also build us up, but this chapter is overwhelmingly discussing the proper usage of speaking in tongues, interpretation of tongues and prophecy. 1Co 14:1 KJV 1 Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy. When we look at 1st Corinthians 14:6-32, we will see two logical arguments. One for why and when we should be speaking in tongues, plus a few of the personal benefits of speaking in tongues, and when speaking in tongues is not appropriate in a group of believers that are gathered together. The other logical argument is for why and when prophecy is appropriate in a group of believers that are gathered together. So, this is the whole chapter’s discourse, to set in order the proper usage of speaking 91 in tongues, tongues with interpretation and prophecy in the believer’s private life and in a public setting with believers and non-believers alike. Now, I must pick up where I left off in the previous subchapter with the repetition of the word “speak,” or in the Greek… G2980, “laleō.” So far, we have nine times this word is used in 1st Corinthians 14:2-6. Now we will see the rest of the times it is used in this chapter. From 1st Corinthians 14:7-32 it is used another thirteen (13) times, and this word is used a total of twenty-three (23) times in just this chapter alone in various translations. I will list these verses as opposed to printing them here. I will also list the word it was translated into English in the King James Version of the Bible. 1. 14:2 speaketh, speaketh, speaketh (3) 2. 14:3 speaketh 3. 14:4 speaketh 4. 14:5 spake, speaketh (2) 5. 14:6 speaking, speak (2) 6. 14:9 spoken, speak (2) 7. 14:11 speaketh, speaketh (2) 8. 14:13 speaketh 9. 14:18 speak 10. 14:19 speak 11. 14:21 speak 12. 14:23 speak 92 13. 14:27 speak 14. 14:28 speak 15. 14:29 speak 16. 14:34 speak 17. 14:35 speak 18. 14:39 speak This is the largest concentration of the Greek word “laleō” in any chapter in the Bible. As repetitions go, when you see a large cluster of one word or phrase repeated in any section in the Bible, the “large cluster” has more importance than a word or phrase that is repeated a few times here and there in a section in the Bible. The large cluster of a word or phrase will define the main topic of that section, and when you study sub-topics in that section, they will fit within the main understanding of the main topic that large repetition defines. So, with these many repetitions of one word in one chapter, and that the chapter’s main topic is to make sure that the church, the body of gathered believers and others is edified, or built up. We need to closely look at these two logical arguments and see why what we speak to a group of gathered believers and others is so important that we must make sure everyone is built up, blessed, edified by the meetings end. 93 This large cluster of the Greek word “laleō” in 1st Corinthians 14:ff establishes that by the words that are spoken either by tongues with interpretation and/or prophecy are to build up the body of believers and others. This makes perfect sense in a chapter that has the highest concentration of the repeated word “speak” (and its variations in the King James Version) in the Bible. It is obvious then, that we are to speak words that will build up the believers and others are the main goal set by God’s Word in this chapter. We shall now look the at two main arguments concerning speaking in tongues, and interpretation of tongues and prophecy centered around building up the believers more closely in 1st Corinthians 14:6-23, and in 1st Corinthians 14:24-32. Looking at the logic that God’s Word lays out, will help us separate the profit from speaking in tongues, and from the interpretation of tongues and prophecy, and it will show you why we should properly utilize these three manifestations concerning the ultimate result of building up the body of believers. 94 ♦ 1st Cor. 14:6. No Profit with Speaking in Tongues -in the churchWe are going to look at each verse in this large section separately in the following six subchapters and the logic that Paul expounds the “why” of the proper usage of speaking in tongues, tongues with interpretation and prophecy is so important to understand and apply properly in our lives. Remember that God has placed a repetition of the word “laleō” (speak) in 1st Corinthians 14:ff twentythree times in thirdly-nine verses. So, for Paul to expound by revelation on what to speak and why to speak is a logical progression of the main topic of this chapter. God is showing us not only that we should speak words that will edify the believers and non-believers, but God is telling us how to do it, and what manifestations to use and why. There are several other chapters in the Bible that have such a large cluster of a word or phrase in a short number of verses. For instance, 1st Corinthians 13:ff has the word “charity” (agapē: Gods Love) used and/or implied eighteen times in thirteen verses which is the main topic of that chapter. Telling us that 1st Corinthians 13:ff is about doing things out of God’s Love as the main topic. 95 So, the next use of “tongues” starts a very important section that expounds on the proper usage of speaking in tongues. An area that most churches today use out of context and out of order! 1Co 14:6 KJV 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? Paul starts this logical argument by saying to the fellow believers that if I were to come to you speaking in tongues (a language you don’t understand by biblical definition), where is the profit for you? Unless I speak to you by revelation, or by knowledge, or by the manifestation of prophecy, or by doctrine (which will be in the common language of the people gathered together). This is the basis for the logical argument Paul is setting forth. There must be profit in what he says to those in the room. If they can’t understand the language, then there is no profit to those in the room with Paul. But, if Paul speaks in the language of those in the room by the various methods mentioned, which will all be in the common language of the group, then every person will be gaining some profit from what Paul says. 96 Paul addresses the proper usage of speaking in tongues first because it became a habit in the Corinthian fellowships that the believers were just speaking in tongues out loud, either by themselves or several spoke in tongues one after each another.58 No one would be able to understand what they spoke, therefore no one was profited by those words that were spoken. This is what speaking in tongues in a church or fellowship looks like when the believers don’t understand what it is for, and it is used incorrectly and out of order. And those that never heard about speaking in tongues or have heard about it and haven’t witnessed it in a group will say that these believers are not in their right mind! Even those that don’t believe, know something is wrong when they hear speaking in tongues in a group without the interpretation spoken! 1Co 14:23 KJV 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? 58 97 ♦ 1st Cor. 14:7-11. You must speak in a language they understand in a group. 1Co 14:7-8 KJV 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? Even musical instruments that are played without any melody, there is no way to know what is played, except the sounds are arranged in a known melody. This is another way of explaining verse six, it is used to help us understand the real situation in terms we are all familiar with. This verse keeps it simple for us, if we hear just a bunch of notes being played haphazardly by someone, then it is just noise to everyone because there is no known order of the notes. Like a child just banging a bunch of keys on a piano, there is no melody and therefore it is just a bunch of noise. How can an army know when to go to battle if they don’t recognize the notes as the battle-cry if all the notes are out of order to that melody? If you want people to pay attention to a melody, then you need to play a melody that the people understand. You need to order the notes in the right order, so others can 98 profit from your playing that instrument in front of the group. 1Co 14:9-11 KJV 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. 1st Corinthians 14:9 starts with “So likewise” referring to musical analogy in verses 7-8. Now we will read the explanation of what the analogy means in reference to speaking in tongues in front of a group of believers. There are many languages in the world, and none of them is meaningless, but if I don’t know the language you are speaking in, you shall be like a person from a foreign country that speaks a different language from my language, and I shall be like a person from a foreign country to you that speaks a different language from yours. So, when you speak in front of a group of people, you need to speak in their language so they can understand what you say. (That is, the language that will be common to all the people in the room. If you only 99 speak English, then naturally you will involve yourself people that speak English). Otherwise, the words you speak are like speaking in the air, without meaning or understanding for the group of people you are speaking in front of. Speaking in tongues without interpretation is just like that. Like two people who speak two different languages trying to communicate to each other, they can’t because neither of them can understand the others person’s language. Before I move on, I want to show you a repetition that adds to the details of the main topic that we found out by the huge repetition of the word “speak” and its various forms from the Greek word “laleō.” The main topic is to “speak” so others can profit from what you say: 1st Corinthians 14:1-5 explains the main topic of this chapter. In 1st Corinthians 14:7 and 9 we see two ways of describing the same dilemma when someone speaks in a language we don’t understand. Verse 7 gives the conclusion that I am not giving a known sound (melody – i.e., language) to the people who hear me, verse 9 gives the conclusion that the speaker and myself are foreigners to each other because we speak different languages. 100 But the result is the same, no one understands what was said or heard, therefore, how can I profit from the words spoken or the sounds I heard? Remember the main topic of this chapter is what we speak must be profitable to those present with us. The large concentration or repetition of the Greek word “laleō” in this chapter leads us to this main topic. Verses 7-8 is also the figure of speech “apologue,” or a “fable,”59 (where inanimate things talk or act on their own). Where the inanimate object acts on its own to illustrate a larger truth. The “musical instruments” represent the people who speak a language, and the “sound” represent the language spoken. See verse 6 for the context. Both examples give us the logic as to why it is so important to make sure those that are present with us understand what we say so they too can profit by those words, which does not contradict the main topic of this chapter but adds more details to the main topic. • Side note: When you know the main topic of a section of God’s Word, by the usage of the most prominent repetition of a word or phrase, then any other smaller repetitions or other figures of speech will not contradict that main topic but will add to the details for 59 Bullinger E.W., (Figures of speech used in the Bible), Baker Book House, Grand Rapids Michigan, 16th printing. p. 754 101 a better understanding. They will add depth to the main topic and establish the truth of what God is showing us in His Word. 102 ♦ 1st Cor. 14:12-13. Believe to interpret the tongues to edify the church 1Co 14:12-13 KJV 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. Now we get back to speaking so others can understand what is said, but the subject changes a little, Paul now shares in these two verses about tongues with interpretation with one important detail on how to do it. Paul adds a few more details and that there is profit in the church “if” the person believes to interpret what they just spoke in a tongue. Paul also wants the believers to seek to excel in building up the church, so if they want to speak in tongues in the church, then they must interpret what they just spoke in a tongue. It says that they are to pray to interpret, in essence, prayer is believing, so they are to believe to operate the manifestation of “tongues with interpretation” instead of the manifestation of “speaking in tongues.” Now another small repetition in verse 12 with the next use of the word “tongues,” again turns us into the direction to edify the church; the believers and nonbelievers that are in the room with the person who is 103 going to speak in tongues out loud. This person needs to “pray” (believe) to interpret so the message can be in the common language of the people present so that everyone can profit and be built up from those words. This small repetition is a word that has the noun and verb form in one verse, 1st Corinthians 14:12. The two words are: “zealous” (G2207: “zēlōtēs” – noun, masculine) and “seek” (G2212: “zēteō” - verb) and is from the root word in the Greek is: G2204, a primary verb that is the word “zeō.” The root word means: 1b) metaphorically 1b1) used of boiling anger, love, zeal, for what is good or bad etc. 1b2) fervent in spirit, said of zeal for what is good.60 The root form when used metaphorically, is to have a burning desire to do something good, to have a love in an area of interest. In this context, the believer is to have a desire, a love to build up other believers and non-believer with the words they speak, to edify the church. Again, this small repetition is reiterating the fact that the goal is to build up the church, it is reinforcing the main topic of 1st Corinthians 14:ff, it is adding more detail on “how” to build up the people present in the room when we read 1st Corinthians 14:12-13. That is, the believer is to believe to interpret the speaking in Thayer, Joseph H., (Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament), Baker Books House, Grand Michigan, 24th printing. p. 270, ref: 2204 as a metaphor. 60 104 tongues that the believer just spoke, so everyone in the room can be built up by the message. This is the continuing logic Paul is setting forth for the proper usage of speaking in tongues with interpretation in a meeting or a gathering of believers and/or non-believers. Again, Paul uses a similar phrase as in 1st Corinthians 14:5, “…that the church may receive edifying.” and in 1st Corinthians 14:12, “… to the edifying of the church.” (Another repetition used as “bookends”). 1Co 14:5 KJV 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. 1Co 14:12 KJV 12 Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church. From 1st Corinthians 14:6 through 11 is Paul’s logic on how to edify the church, explaining why the preferred ways are tongues with interpretation or prophecy to edify the believers and/or non-believers in the church. This section puts an emphasis on the need to speak in a language that everybody in meeting can understand with several metaphors. Two areas are mentioned that will benefit the church (everyone in the meeting). 105 Speaking in tongues with interpretation is more beneficial in the church when there are new or immature believers in the church. Prophecy is more beneficial because you will speak in the known language of the people gathered in the church with a majority of more mature believers. That is, it is human nature to gather with people that all speak the same native language, therefore when you bring forth a word of prophecy, you will naturally speak in your native tongue. This is what is important to learn what is between I believe are “bookends” at the beginning of 1st Corinthians 14:5c and at the end of 1st Corinthians 14:12b (1st Corinthians 14:6-11). If a person speaks in tongues with interpretation or has a word of prophecy the interpretation and prophecy will be in the language known to the group of believers and/or non-believers, fulfilling both areas brought up in this section between the “bookends.” This section, 1st Corinthians 14:5c-12b is a repetition of a phrase with the same meaning as mentioned above, just said differently. This type of repetition is called a “Bookend”61 and is like a section unto itself, yet, it still flows with the main topic of 1st Corinthians 14:ff by adding more detail without contradicting the main Nessle, Jon O, (Repetitions-Revealing a Hidden Key to the Heart of Scripture), Next Reformation Publishing Co. Plainfield, IN. 2018 61 106 topic. When we see this, (a “bookend”), we are to slow down, and re-read this section, and take in what is shared. This section is reproof and correction for instruction in righteousness62 in a very practical way when we are gathered together in a meeting type setting. Paul is sharing in various ways the differences in speaking in tongues and tongues with interpretation as far as who can and cannot understand, and why. And shares the preferred way to edify the church when it comes to these two manifestations of the gift holy spirit in a meeting setting. 2Ti 3:16 KJV 16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 62 107 ♦ 1st Cor. 14:14-17. Speaking in tongues is for your private prayer life The next section of scripture that starts right after the “bookend” section deals with speaking in tongues, and Paul’s logical argument why this is for your private prayer life, and not for your public gatherings. 1Co 14:14-17 KJV 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. In verse 14, Paul says right off the bat that he will in an “pray in an unknown tongue” it is his spirit that is praying, and he can’t understand it. So, Paul is teaching that speaking in tongues by itself is a prayer by the person's spirit. It is one type of prayer in this section. In verse 15 Paul adds more details about the types of prayer by saying that he can pray by his spirit (speaking in tongues), and he can pray with his understanding (in his native language). He also 108 mentions that he can sing in the spirit (sing in tongues) and sing with his understanding (sing in his native language). Now, before I go any further, I want to show you why I titled this section “speaking in tongues if for your private prayer life.” The word “pray” and “prayeth” in verses 14 and 15 is the same Greek word and is used four times in two verses. This small repetition in these two verses gives us the topic of prayer that is most important to keep in mind. There is also another small repetition of the phrase “I will” used four times alongside the context of prayer. "I will" is used 4 times, emphasizing that is by our will to pray, God does force us to pray. These 2 repetitions pull out the truth that we can, by our own will, pray in four different ways: two ways are by tongues, two ways are by our native tongue 1. 2. 3. 4. by speaking in tongues by our will, by singing in tongues by our will, by praying in our native tongue by our will, by singing while we pray in our native tongue by our will. The words “pray” and “prayeth” is the Greek word: G4336, “proseuchomai,” and is pronounced: “pros109 yoo'-khom-ahee,” and means: 1) to offer prayers, to pray.63 That makes this another small repetition embedded in the larger repetition of 1st Corinthians 14:ff. Because this word is used four times in verses 14 and 15, the main context is talking about prayer or praying in private when you speak in tongues without interpretation. Look at verse 13 for the context of prayer being speaking in tongues, verse 13 says that if you are to speak in tongues in a group, you are to “pray” or believe to interpret what you just spoke. And then verse 14 starts with the word “For,” a word that gives you a reason or results for verse 13. For this reason, if I am speaking in tongues (from verse 13), then Paul says it is prayer with his spirit, and he can’t understand the language. So, verse 14 and 15 is now just talking about speaking in tongues, and what speaking in tongues is. The second repetition of the phrase “I will” is also used four times, and doubles down on the truth when we pray, (in tongues, or in our native tongue), we are praying by our freedom of will. God does not force us or possess us to pray. That is why with these small repetitions we see the context change from tongues with interpretation to Meyers, Rick, (Thayer’s Greek Lexicon Dictionary), E-Sword Software version 11.0.6, Copyright © 2000-2016, G4336 63 110 speaking in tongues by itself, and therefore it is a prayer to God. In verses 16-17 Paul gives us the logical argument why speaking in tongues is not to be used in front of a group of people. Paul says in verse 16 if you bless (to give praise) by the spirit (speaking in tongues), how can others in the room say “Amen” to the words they can’t understand? This is totally logical if I speak in a foreign language to you, how can say “Amen” honestly; you can’t, because you did not understand what I said. In verse 17 Paul continues his logical argument about what speaking in tongues is for, stating that speaking in tongues truly gives “thanks well” or is giving thanks to God when you pray, but the other (the others in the room) are not built up. Why? Because the main topic of 1st Corinthians 14:ff is to speak to build up the church, and if you speak out loud in a language that no one can understand, it is not going to build up those that are present with you when you do it. So, Paul is reminding them of this, and this small section is just talking about speaking in tongues and some of the benefits it has, and why you should not speak in tongues in a group of people. So, this verse adds to the details to what speaking in tongues is, it is a prayer to God that has a few benefits 111 listed to further our understanding. Speaking in tongues so far from our word study on “tongues” is: 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) Prayer, It praises God, It is giving thanks, It is speaking the wonderful works of God, It magnifies God. Paul wants to make this perfectly clear that speaking in tongues profits the one who speaks in tongues, but it does not profit those that hear you speak in tongues in a group situation such as a meeting or gathering of some believers. So, speaking in tongues should be kept to yourself as a logical conclusion. 112 ♦ 1st Cor. 14:18-20. I would rather speak 5 words you understand so I may teach you 1Co 14:18-20 KJV 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. Paul says that he speaks in tongues more often than everyone in Corinth in verse 18. What is interesting is that even though he is teaching that speaking in tongues is not to be done in a public setting, he is not saying it is not important, on the contrary, he is saying that it is important, but, in a person’s private prayer life. By stating that he speaks in tongues more than everyone in Corinth, establishes that speaking in tongues is an important part of a person’s prayer life. And as a leader in the first-century church speaking in tongues is an important part of his private prayer life also. Yet, in a public setting, he would rather speak in a language that everyone can understand so he can teach them God’s Word in areas that will help them walk with the power of God in their lives. When he 113 does this, then everyone will be built up and blessed by the words they understand, this is the main topic of I Corinthians 14:ff to edify the church, first and foremost. Paul exhorts the believers not to be “children in understanding” or don’t be immature in your reasoning’s. This is another figure of speech called a metaphor, and this usage is the most emphasized metaphor called a “hypocatastasis”64 the word “children” is replacing the phrase “immature Christians” in the phrase “children in understanding,” so it would be understood as “immature Christians in their reasoning’s” Paul does not want the believers to be immature or like children in their understanding concerning speaking in tongues in this immediate context or to be immature in their understanding concerning tongues with interpretation and prophecy in the remoter context of the whole chapter. Paul wants them to be full grown Christians, or of full age in understanding, that is; mature Christians, adult Christians in their understanding. This figure of speech adds more details to the purpose of edifying the church, and by exhorting them to be 64 Bullinger E.W., (Figures of speech used in the Bible), Baker Book House, Grand Rapids Michigan, 16th printing. p. 744ff 114 Christian adults in their understanding and to know the difference when you should speak in tongues and when you should speak in tongues with interpretation or prophecy, and he is teaching them which manifestations to use when alone or in a group. Which again does not contradict the main topic of 1st Corinthian 14:5 but adds understanding to it. By sharing that he would rather teach five words that everyone understands so he can teach all of them, is an example of what they should do when they are in a group of believers in a meeting setting. If today’s mainstream Christian leaders in the major denominations would teach these important distinctions in speaking in tongues, tongues with interpretation and prophecy, and utilize them in their proper usage in their fellowships. Then the Christian churches would have a modern reformation in walking in the power of God in the twenty-first century that has not been seen since the first-century church under the leadership of the Apostle Paul. 115 ♦ 1st or. 14:21-22. Tongues are for a sign to the unbeliever 1Co 14:21-22 KJV 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. 22 Wherefore tongues *are for a sign*, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth (are for a sign) not for them that believe not, but for them which believe. These two verses have one topic about speaking in tongues and prophecy, the topic is that each “are for a sign,” but, to a different group of people. And the structure of verse 22 is very revealing in how it shows us this. There is a figure of speech called “omission” that purposely leaves out a word or phrase that in other cases would be supplied, so we would supply the word or phrase as we read. Because of this figure of speech “omission,” the phrase “are for a sign” becomes a small repetition, and now this verse will have the correct understanding. In the King James version, when there is no corresponding Greek word from the texts, they would italicize a word they added to make the sentence flow better so you knew it was not in the Greek of Hebrew text they translated from. 116 The King James translators added the word “serveth” in verse 22 where the implied phrase “are for a sign” by the figure of speech “ellipsis” would be implied. If the word “serveth” would not have been added by the translators where the implied phrase “are for a sign” would be supplied by the reader then the proper understanding and emphasis would be on the phrase “are for a sign” because of the previously similar phrase with the phrase “are to a sign.” The first scripture I have listed is the KJV with the added phrase “are for a sign” in italics showing you what you would mentally understand in the last half of the verse. Then I added additional versions that either properly omit the phrase “are for a sign” without rewriting the balance of the last phrase to be grammatically correct for English or have added the “omission” or “ellipsis” correctly. 1Co 14:22 KJV 22 Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying are for a sign not for them that believe not, but for them which believe. 1 Corinthians 14:22 Darby 22 So that tongues are for a sign, not to those who believe, but to unbelievers; but prophecy, not to unbelievers, but to those who believe. 117 1 Corinthians 14:22 TLV (Tree of Life Version) 22 Therefore tongues are a sign not for believers but for unbelievers—but prophecy is a sign not for unbelievers but for believers. I mentioned structure earlier, I now want to look at the simple structure, or the order of two phrases that are listed two times in verse 22 (another small repetition). I will look at these two phrases under each heading: speaking in tongues and prophecy. Tongues: A) Are for a sign B) Not to them that believe C) To them that believe not Prophecy: A) Are for a sign (implied by "omission") C) Not for them that believe not B) For them which believe “Are for A sign” is omitted concerning prophecy but can be properly supplied and in the listing of "are for a sign,” both list "who" it is not a sign for first, and "who" it is a sign for second. So even though the order is reversed in each listing, those that don’t believe are both listed first, and those that believe are listed second. Again, showing us who benefits from speaking in tongues, and who benefits from prophecy. 118 The figure of speech “ellipsis” in Greek, pronounced “El-lip’-sis,” also called “omission” in English, and means: a leaving in, … The figure is so called because some gap is left in the sentence, which means a word or words are left out or omitted. The English name of the figure would, therefore, be Omission. This figure is a particular form given to a passage when a word or phrase is omitted; the words are necessary for the grammar, but not necessary for the sense.” 65 In the next sub-chapter, the next three verses, 1st Corinthians 14:23-25 explains what we just read in 1st Corinthians 14:21-22, in this sub-chapter, along with a conclusion. The conclusion in verse 25 also closes out this section of a sub-topic of the chapter, 1st Corinthians 14:6-25. 65 Bullinger E.W., (Figures of speech used in the Bible), Baker Book House, Grand Rapids Michigan, 16th printing. p. 1, Figures Involving Omission. “Ellipsis” ¶ 1 through 3. 119 ♦ 1st Cor. 14:23-25. Prophecy touches the hearts and convinces the believer and unbeliever alike 1Co 14:23-25 KJV 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. This group of verses now gives an example of what Paul explained in verses 21-22 above. The example is taken from what he heard in the fellowships in Corinth, remember, the epistles to the Corinthians were written to admonish and correct the error that has crept in the practical application. And this chapter is admonishing and correcting specifically the error in the usage of the three manifestations: speaking in tongues, tongues with interpretation and prophecy. If you are going to correct an error in someone’s life, you should use “real-time” examples in that person’s life, that will be the most effective “reproof and correction” technique for change. 120 Okay, look at first two words in 1st Corinthians 14:23, “If therefore,” these two words are a conditional clause to what follows in the next phrase, and the word “therefore” does connect verse 22 to this example. “Therefore” is a conclusion to something previously said or mentioned, so, in verse 22 we looked at how tongues are for a sign to the unbeliever, and in previous verses, we learned that speaking in tongues should not be used alone in a meeting setting. And with any “if therefore,” (or “if”) there is always some kind of “then” that will follow (or “because of this, then”). In other words, “if therefore” (in a meeting is implied from verse 19 above) -speaking in tongues is a sign to the unbeliever and not to be used by itself in a meeting-, then, those in the meeting will think you are crazy, because a lot of people are speaking in tongues at once, or one after another. Remember, this chapter is about “building up the church” which is why Paul is taking so much time to explain the proper usage of speaking in tongues, tongues with interpretation and prophecy, so the church can be built up as the first priority in this chapter. Now Paul gives an example of the effect of this misuse of speaking in tongues would have on those that don’t believe or have no knowledge of speaking in tongues. If, therefore the whole church is together, and everyone speaks in tongues at once, or some people 121 speak in tongues at the same time can also be included in this broad statement; will not those people in the room that do not believe or do not have any or enough education in this area, say that you guys are crazy? Well, picture yourself in a new church, and you never heard of speaking in tongues before, and suddenly a bunch of people start to speak in a foreign language at the same time. Wouldn’t you think what a strange thing to do, who can understand them? Wouldn’t you question their sanity? Even those that don’t believe or have not heard of speaking in tongues would come to that conclusion. So why don’t the believers come to that conclusion? Because they were taught wrong from the beginning, and Paul needed to confront them in a loving, honest way so all of them could benefit from the proper usage of these three manifestations in the church and private prayer life. In the next verse 24 that is just talking about the manifestation of prophecy, and in verse 23 that talked about the manifestation of speaking in tongues, there is a repetition of two words when I looked at the Greek. In verse 23 the words are “unlearned” (G2399)66 and “unbeliever” (G571)67, and in verse 24 Thayer, Joseph H., (Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament), Baker Books House, Grand Michigan, 24th printing. p. 297, ref: 2399- def: 4) in the NT, an unlearned, illiterate, man as opposed to the learned and educated: one who is unskilled in any art 67 Ibid., p. 57, ref: 571- def: 3) unbelieving, incredulous 3a) without trust (in God) 66 122 the two words are “unlearned” (G2399) and “believeth not” (G571). Even though the two words are reversed in order in verse 24 from verse 23, it is still a repetition of these two words in these two verses and emphasizes the conclusion after each set of words. In verse 23 we have a conclusion about these two groups that ask the question if you hear some or all the believers speak in tongues at one time, or after each other, you will conclude: … are they not mad (crazy)? This is what happens when a bunch of people speak in tongues in a meeting out of order. And in verse 24 we also have a conclusion if you hear someone or all the believers have a word prophecy, you will conclude that: you are convinced and judged by all. That means that you heard the words that you needed to hear to bless you and encourage you with the truth you heard. This is what happens when you hear a word of prophecy in a group of believers who practice these manifestations in their proper usage. Verse 25 has a very revealing truth about what is said when a person speaks a word of prophecy (or tongues with interpretation). Remember from the record in Acts 2:1-4 that when the Apostles were filled with gift holy spirit, they began to speak in tongues, and as they continued speaking, their spirit was supplying them 123 with words to speak. In prophecy, the same is true, as the person speaks, their spirit is supplying them with the words to speak, but in their native tongue. Now that we are reminded that the words we speak are inspired by the spirit in us, verse 25 will make a lot more sense. One of the ways that we are built up in a believers meeting is by hearing someone teach The Word, but that is not the only way we can be built up. The words we hear in the teaching can be a combination of Doctrine, Reproof, and Correction, so we can learn more about how to live God’s Word a bit better. While we are listening to the teaching there will be things we hear that will hit our heart and give us an answer in an area we need an answer in. No one else knows what parts of the teaching you hear will answer questions you have or meets your need at that time, but you do. 68 When you hear the manifestation of prophecy and tongues with interpretation, the same is true, there will be parts of what is being said that hit your heart, and bless you personally, and no one will know except you. 2Ti 3:16-17 KJV 16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. 68 124 Now read 1st Corinthians 14:25 with this understanding and you see how God, by way of the manifestation of prophecy, or tongues with interpretation can build you up in a very personal way, that only you will know. 1Co 14:25 KJV 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. Because you got blessed and heard just what you needed to hear at that time, you will be convinced that these people that just spoke in tongues with interpretation or had a word of prophecy are indeed words from God that they manifested via these two manifestations of the gift holy spirit. When these two manifestations are done properly in the church (meeting), the results will be genuine, and everyone will get blessed and heard just what you needed to hear at that time. This concludes all the uses of the word “tongues” that is used in the context of speaking in tongues. When you look back at the different areas that Paul addressed to the Corinthians you can see that he hit on every issue that can result in not properly using the “speaking” manifestations. God has magnified this chapter by the large amount of repetitions of the one Greek word “laleō” that has shown us all the benefits 125 of “speaking in tongues,” “tongues with interpretation,” and “prophecy” and the “when,” “where,” and “why” to utilize each of them to receive the maximum blessing. 126 3: Common Controversy’s Exposed One of the largest controversies around speaking in tongues is that there are large groups of people that believe a variety of ideas around the availability and benefits of speaking in tongues. I am going to show you in God’s Word what The Word says in several areas of controversy. This should eliminate all doubt in these areas and bless you mightily to know the truth on these topics. When we have so many opinions floating around from all the different denominations of Christianity, they can’t all be right, can they? The Word of God declares that we should “rightly divide” His Word, and not end up with our own private interpretation, or our own meaning of what The Word teaches. God’s Word encourages us to study His Word so we will not be ashamed after we have studied the scriptures to get the one correct interpretation. We are to make sure we are “rightly dividing the word of truth,” then we will not be ashamed because we know we have the “right or correct cutting” of what The Word of God teaches. 2Ti 2:15 KJV 15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 127 The words “that needeth not be ashamed” are the one Greek word G422: “anepaischuntos,” and is the adjective form, and is pronounced “an-ep-ah'eeskhoon-tos” and means: “having no cause to be ashamed,”69 and is used one time in the New Testament. But the verb form is used five times, and by studying the verb from, we can gain more depth on what the word means. When there is only one use of a word in the bible, sometimes, you can find other forms of that word. You may be able to find the root form, the verb form, or the plural form, or maybe the adverb or adjective forms if it has them. These other forms can add more depth to the meaning in a more generic way, but you must also consider that the other uses may not fit in some ways. You have to look up each form and determine the overall context for the topic you are studying. The verb form for “anepaischuntos,” is the Greek word G153: “aischunomai,” (middle voice) and is pronounced “ahee-skhoo'-nom-ahee” and means: (middle tense) To shame oneself, to feel ashamed, dishonored.70 Where the adjective form informs us we are not to have any cause to be ashamed or Joseph H Thayer, Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament, Baker Books House, Grand Michigan, 24th printing 1999. p. 44, ref: 422 70 Zodhiates, Spiros, Th.D., (The Complete Word Study Dictionary: New Testament), AMG Publishers, Chattanooga, TN., Revised 1993. p. 102. ref: 153 middle tense 69 128 dishonored, the verb form gives us the mental feeling we will have if we are caught with a wrong interpretation of God’s Word, we will feel dishonored, and shameful in ourselves. Luke 16:2-3 ashamed, Philippians 1:20 ashamed, I John 2:28 ashamed. Php 1:20 KJV 20 According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed,(G153:V) but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. 1Jn 2:28 KJV 28 And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed (G153:V) before him at his coming. So, when we rightly divide the scriptures, we will have a confidence about what we studied, and we will feel no shame or have any reason to be ashamed of what we studied. The words “rightly dividing” are the one Greek word: G3718, “orthotomeō” and is pronounced “orthot-om-eh'-o” and means from “Thayer’s GreekEnglish Lexicon” 1: to cut straight, to cut straight ways, i.e.: to proceed by straight paths, hold a straight course, equiv. to, to do right.71 From “The New Strong’s 71 Joseph H Thayer, (Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament), Baker Books House, Grand Michigan, 24th printing 1999. p. 453, ref: 3718 #1 129 Exhaustive Concordance” means: to make a straight cut, that is, (figuratively) to dissect (expound) correctly (the divine message): - rightly divide.72 2Pe 1:20 KJV 20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. If we are to rightly divide God’s Word and we are not allowed to give our private or separate interpretation, then God must provide a way for us to get it right when we study His Word. Notice that the two phrases, “rightly dividing the word of truth” and “no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation” give us essentially of the same message. We are not to wrongly divide what the Word of God says as we study the words in it, and we are not to have our own separate interpretation of what “we think” the scripture is saying to us. In 2nd Peter 1:20 above, the word “private” is the Greek word G2398 “idios,” pronounced “id'-ee-os” and means: Of uncertain affinity; pertaining to self, that is, one's own; by implication private or separate. So, we are not to have our own (or private or separate) interpretation.73 72 James Strong, (The New Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of The Bible), Thomas Nelson Publications. 1996. p. 64 / Greek Dictionary, ref: 3718 73 Ibid,. p. 42, ref: 2398 130 The word “interpretation” in 2nd Peter 1:20 is the Greek word G1955 “epilusis” and is pronounced “ep-il'-oo-sis” and means: explanation, that is, application: - interpretation.74 So, putting the two words together with the better definitions from Strong’s Concordance, we get, 2nd Peter 1:20 A better translation 20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any one’s own explanation. If we are not to give our own explanation of any of the scriptures, then God’s Word must have some failsafe study principles, so we can get it right when we do study His Word. And, yes, God did know that many translations would be made, and we recognize that “English,” or “Latin” were not the original languages. That is why we use the old Greek and Hebrew as our base languages and use the proper lexicons of the known texts of old. We will still be able to get back to what God’s is telling us. I have shown you the very basic way to study the scriptures from The King James version of the Bible. Look up the English word from a verse in The Strong’s Concordance and you will see the Greek or Hebrew and its meaning behind English translation. You will 74 Ibid., p. 34, ref: 1955 131 also see all the places that the Greek or Hebrew word is used throughout the Bible, which will give you a much better definition, as you see how the word is used in previous usages. Most of the time the first usage of any word will give you a base definition that will follow through other usages as you look at verses that follow the first usage. There are other study techniques that can open the scriptures even deeper, but this method I used is very common, and reliable. If we are going to the study God’s Word about speaking in tongues, we will need to understand at least this method of studying the scriptures that I have used throughout this book, so we can end the confusion on speaking in tongues that you find from the different Christian denominations. 132 Common Misconceptions About Speaking In Tongues ♦ Is speaking in tongues available today? Probably the largest misconception in this day and time is that speaking in tongues is no longer available to born-again Christians. We will need to go to the scriptures in God’s Word that will give us the truth regarding this topic and let The Word of God speak for itself, without our private interpretation getting in the way, regardless of what is taught by some of the major Christian denominations, or theologians! After the resurrection and before the ascension, Jesus Christ declared to the Apostles in his resurrected body that they should go out in the world and preach the gospel, and those that believe will speak in tongues among other things. Mar 16:15-17 KJV 15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. 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; 133 This was said in the future tense to the Apostles, letting them know that in the future the believers can and will speak in tongues among other things. Imagine being there when Jesus Christ told them that in the future they would speak in tongues. In the Old Testament speaking in tongues was mentioned as a future ability for believers.75 If Jesus Christ declared that they would speak in tongues as believers in the future, it was not available to them yet. And I’d bet they had plenty of questions to ask Him, one question may have been how do we speak in tongues? I’d imagine. Jesus Christ did teach them how to not only speak in tongues but how to receive revelation at the same time. There is a slight difference in operation, but the basic technique is the same. In the Gospel of John 16:13 is what many call “the great principle,” because it describes how God talks to our spirit, and then how our spirit talks to us to reveal information about the spiritual realm to our mind. Speaking in tongues uses a similar technique, 1Co 14:21 KJV 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. Isa 28:11-12 KJV 11 For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people. 12 To whom he said, This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing: yet they would not hear. 75 134 but it is not revelation, it is inspiration as we speak. First, let’s look at the great principle. Joh 16:13 KJV 13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. Before we look at this verse a bit deeper, I need to restate it and show some errors in this translation of a few pronouns that has caused no end of confusion for many who read this verse. The pronoun he should be translated it. The first word “he” is the Greek word: G1565 “ekeinos,” and is pronounced “ek-i'-nos.” It is a pronoun in the masculine form and can be translated “he” or “it” by the context of its usage.76 Here, it should be translated “it,” because the pronoun is referring to “the spirit of truth,” and spirit has no gender. The rest of words “he” are not in the Greek text but is properly supplied by the translator. “All the "he-s" in John 16:13 ff are not an ellipsis, they are the understood subject that is contained in the suffix of every verb. Here, the James Strong, (The New Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of The Bible), Thomas Nelson Publications. 1996. p. 28 / Greek Dictionary, ref: 1565 76 135 nominative phrase is “the spirit” of truth” where each word is Nominative in the Greek. Making this phrase the subject of the word “he” (or “it.”) If there is no word in the nominative case to function as a subject, then this understood subject becomes literal.”77 The word “he” or “it” is representing the understood subject, in this case, “the spirit of truth” right after the first word “he” in verse 13, “the spirit of truth” is the gift holy spirit that God will put “in” the believers in the “full measure, or “portion.” This makes it an important verse for the believer to understand if they are to walk with the power of God in their life. I changed the word “he” to “it” because in the Greek there is “masculine,” “feminine,” and “neuter.” The word translated “he” in the first use is in the “neuter” (not masculine) and therefore should be translated “it” not “he.” John 16:13 KJV 13 Howbeit when it, the Spirit of truth is come it will guide you into all truth: for it shall not speak of itself; but whatsoever it shall hear, that shall it speak: and it will show you things to come. 77 Nessle, Jon O., Next Reformation Publishing Co. 7 Ones of Original Christianity class series quote. 136 Now I changed the word “it” to “the gift holy spirit” in the next re-translation to reflect the noun “it” represents in the verse in the following translation according to usage. John 16:13 KJV Howbeit when the gift holy spirit is come, the gift holy spirit will guide you into all truth: for the gift holy spirit shall not speak of itself; but whatsoever the gift holy spirit shall hear from God, who is Holy and Spirit, that shall the gift holy spirit speak: and the gift holy spirit will show you things to come. That is: God tells your gift holy spirit, then your gift holy spirit tells your mind, then you act on it. This is revelation, you receive it first, then act on it. Speaking in tongues uses a similar principle when you speak in tongues. You begin to speak in tongues by doing everything you would normally do when you talk, except God will tell your gift holy spirit what to speak, and your gift holy spirit will provide your mind with those words as you speak forth. It is not revelation, but inspiration. Inspiration is “as you speak,” while revelation is “you act after you receive the needed information.” Act 2:4 KJV 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. 137 This is inspiration, speaking in tongues is “as the spirit gives you the utterance (words)” when you begin to speak. After the resurrection, but before the ascension, Jesus Christ gave a little more information on how to receive and manifest the gift holy spirit on the Day of Pentecost. Joh 20:21-22 KJV 21 Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. 22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost: He instructed them to breathe and then receive the gift holy spirit into manifestation. The word “receive” in verse 22 is the Greek word G2983, “lambanō,” and is pronounced “lam-ban'-o.” It is a verb, and means: 1f) to take beginning, to prove anything, to make a trial of, to experience.78 Because it is a verb, this word refers to not just receiving it inwardly, but also to experience it outwardly, to really speak in tongues, or do any of the nine manifestations, not just think about it, but to do it! Rick Meyers, (Thayer’s Greek Lexicon Dictionary), E-Sword Software version 10.4.0, Copyright © 2000-2014, G2983, ref: 1f 78 138 What that means is that the resurrected Jesus was teaching them to not just get born-again, but to manifest outwardly the gift holy spirit. In the context, He was talking about a future outpouring of the gift holy spirit. In Mark 16:17 and in John 20:21-22, speaking in tongues is mentioned as a future experience that believers will do after they receive the gift holy spirit, being born-again. So, the resurrected Jesus that was instructing the Apostles how to get born-again and to speak in tongues for the future time of the original outpouring of the gift holy spirit. But the Apostles didn’t know what day the gift would be given to them, but that they should wait in Jerusalem for the Promise of the Father. So, the days building up to the holy day of the Day of Pentecost, the Apostles were in Jerusalem as instructed by the resurrected Jesus. Act 1:4 And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. Act 1:5 For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. Act 1:6 When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? 139 Act 1:7 And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. Act 1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. In verse 8 above, the Apostles were to be witnesses unto Christ to the whole world. Then, there must have been something that they did in front of everyone on the Day of Pentecost that proved that they were witnesses of the Resurrected Christ. That was the speaking in tongues, the gift holy spirit is “power” given to the born-again individuals, and that power (made up of nine manifestations, and the other gifts of grace from God; 1st Corinthians 12:4-6) is that witness that Jesus Christ is the true Redeemer, the Son of God. On the Day of Pentecost God did provide a go sign that they heard and saw, so they knew when to receive the gift holy spirit and begin to speak in tongues: 1. They heard a sound from heaven that sounded like a strong wind. 2. They saw the Cloven Tongues above their heads In the beginning of each Administration, God 140 provided a voice or sound from Heaven.79 These where the two sings from heaven that God gave the Apostles to start to speak in tongues. It is interesting that God made a sound from heaven that “sounded” like breathing that everyone heard. Like what Christ Jesus taught the Apostle’s a few days earlier, just saying. When they started to speak in tongues, then those present in the Temple also heard words from heaven via the speaking in tongues and marveled at the wonderful works from God. So, this is the third sign from God that officially starts God’s next administration, a voice from Heaven. The Grace Administration had officially started; this is what the Old Testament believers searched for in the Old Testament, looking for any details.80 Nessle, Jon O., (The Summer of Truth, The Revelation of Christ’s Sermon on the Plain), Next Reformation Publishing Co. Plainfield, IN. 2014. p. 107-141. 80 1Pe 1:11 KJV 11 Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ (God, not Christ) which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow. 79 141 Act 2:1-4 KJV 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, (sounded like breathing) 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. (a visual sign) 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. (a voice from Heaven) The “sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind” and the “cloven tongues” were a sign to receive the gift holy spirit and to start to speak in tongues. The Apostles “breathed in” as Jesus Christ instructed them earlier. Then they began to speak in tongues as the spirit gave them utterance, the languages were of the people that were gathered in the Temple at that time. So, there were three things that God did in public view for all to see and hear on a high holy day when thousands of people would be in Jerusalem and many of them would be in the Temple at the hours of prayer. The three signs from God.” 1. They heard a sound from heaven that sounded like a strong breathing. It wasn’t breathing, it sounded like breathing. (A simile is to describe and compare 142 something in human terms, so we can understand it better). 2. They saw the Cloven Tongues above their heads, that must have been an amazing sight. 3. They heard the Apostles speak in tongues via the gift holy spirit as the spirit gave them the words to speak. (Words from heaven (John 16:13, the great principal) declaring what God is doing and making available to all mankind) Act 2:5-12 KJV 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? 9 Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, 10 Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, 11 Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God. 12 And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this? 143 Now we know what happened when the Apostle’s got born again, how about when they spoke in tongues? Well, Peter spoke to the congregation under no uncertain terms to set the record straight on what just happened. Act 2:14-17 KJV 14 But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words: 15 For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day. 16 But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; 17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: Act 2:22-25 KJV 22 Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know: 23 Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain: 24 Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it. 144 25 For David speaketh concerning him, I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved: Back in Acts 2:15 the third hour is mentioned and corresponds to 9am-10am because the first hour according to the Jewish daylight hours was at Sunrise and started around 7 am. The day was divided into three sections: These divisions were mentioned by David when he said he would pray in the morning and evening, and at noon.81 This is the breakdown according to “Manners and Customs of the Bible:82 • 1st hour (7am-8am) • 6th hour (12pm-1pm) • 12th hour (6pm-7pm) And there were two more breakdowns, one between the first and sixth hour, and one between the sixth and twelfth hour. • 3rd hour (9am-10am) • 9th hour (3pm-4pm) Psa 55:17 KJV17 Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice. 82 Freeman, James M., (Manners and Customs of the Bible), Logos International, Plainfield, New Jersey, reprinted 1972, p. 314/Prayer ref: 595, p. 429/Hours of the Day ref: 806 81 145 So, this establishes when it happened, it happened in the morning, the first gathering in the Temple to pray among other things. It was around 9 am, the third hour of the day. It was a high holy day, and an hour of prayer, the Temple was filled to capacity no doubt. Like today when many more people go to church on the major holidays than they do on regular church days, those days the church is filled to capacity! Well, the same was true back then, because it was a major holiday, The Day of Pentecost, the city had many more travelers staying in town, along with the local citizens who were also to be a part of the high holy day. The Temple must have been filled to capacity on the first hour of prayer, so they could be a part of that first service on The Day of Pentecost. Okay, now that I have established “what” and “when” happened on the Day of Pentecost, I want to show you that we still live in the same Grace Administration as the Apostles. Once you see this, it is easier to accept that speaking in tongues is still available today, as are all the manifestations of the gift holy spirit. As you read the New Testament, you will notice that Paul would much rather be changed into the new spiritual body and leave this world behind. But he realizes that until the return of Christ, it is more needful to keep preaching and teaching the Gospel so 146 the believers can grow in the Love of God and walk with the power of God more and more until the return of Christ. Like in Timothy, where Paul admonishes him to fight the good fight, and keep the Word he has been taught. 2Co 4:17-18 KJV 17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; 18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. 2Co 5:1-2 KJV 1 For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. 2 For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven: Even Paul understood that while we are alive now, sometimes it is a pain in the neck to deal with some situations. But Paul reminds them of the hope of the return of Christ where we will receive a new spiritual body, like the body Jesus Christ had after His resurrection and showed himself to many people. Mary thought the resurrected Jesus Christ was the gardener. 147 Joh 20:15-17 KJV 15 Jesus saith unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? whom seekest thou? She, supposing him to be the gardener, saith unto him, Sir, if thou have borne him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away. 16 Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master. 17 Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God. The disciples were gathered in fear of the Jews, Jesus Christ in his resurrected body, appeared in their midst and said, “peace be unto you.” This was before the Day of Pentecost, but after His resurrection in His new body. He was giving them a glimpse of their future body and power, something they would need later to stand strong. Joh 20:19-20 KJV 19 Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. 20 And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord. So, there were people living as Paul admonished the believers that had indeed seen Jesus Christ in His new 148 spiritual body. So, they knew that in the future, when He returns, they also will have a similar spiritual body. If the believers today do not have that new spiritual body that the resurrected Jesus Christ had shown to many of the people before the Day of Pentecost in His day, then the return of Christ has not happened, and we are still in the same Grace Administration until the return of Christ. And Paul said that until the return the Christ, it is more needful to teach the Word of God concerning what God has given them on the Day of Pentecost. Paul was also wanting to have his new spiritual body, but he knew that would not happen until the return of Christ. Paul understood that until the return of Christ, he was needed to keep teaching the Word to encourage the believers to keep applying and living the Christian lifestyle. Php 1:23-25 KJV 23 For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better: 24 Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you. 25 And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith; 149 Paul also admonished the believers not to be deceived by others that claim the return of Christ has already happened. Think about it, if you are convinced that we are no longer living in The Grace Administration because Christ has returned already, then you will also believe that the gift holy spirit is no longer available, and therefore speaking in tongues is also no longer available. This is a slippery sloop and defies logic, why? Because if even one person can speak in tongues, then claiming that Christ returned already is a great big lie! Even more proof is that all of those that have passed away are still buried and have not been risen from the dead, which will happen before the living will be changed to their new spiritual body. It will be a worldwide event that will not be done in secret. 1Th 4:13-18 KJV 13 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, (dead) that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep (are dead) in Jesus will God bring with him. 15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent (go before) them which are asleep (dead). 16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 150 17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words. 2Th 2:1-3 KJV 1 Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him, 2 That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand. 3 Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; The very fact that people are indeed getting bornagain every day and many of them are speaking in tongues as the Apostles did at the beginning of the Grace Administration, proves to us that we are still living in the same administration as the Apostles lived in over two thousand years ago. Everything that the believers did concerning receiving the gift holy spirit and following through with learning how to operate the nine manifestations of that gift is still available today. Paul mentioned this also and taught the believers that right now we have this gift holy spirit because we are children of God, and this gift is like having toys as a child would have. But, in the future, after the return 151 of Christ, we will put these childish things away. We won’t have them or need them, and we will have adult powers with our new spiritual bodies, that is, a new spiritual adult body with even greater powers than we have now. 1 Corinthians 13:9-12 KJV 9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. 10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. 11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. 12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. Look at the two words I have shaded, the two words are “when,” and “then.” This is one of many repetitions in these four verses, this repetition though sets-up two timeframes, or periods of time that the other repetitions will fall into. One of the timeframes is current or in our present time, and the other timeframe happens in the future, when we see Jesus Christ face-to-face, at His return. Also, the word “now,” another repetition, is associated with the word “when,” that tells us what is in our present timeframe, not the future timeframe. In verse 9 it says we “know” and “prophecy” in part. Why? Because we only have “an earnest,” (or a down 152 payment, security deposit) of the spirit that is limited in scope and power.83 This helps set-up the next few verses along with their timeframe categories. Let’s look at what is associated with the word “when.” 1. V11: “when I was a child, I spake as child, I understood as a child,” … “I put away childish things.” (Being a child and understanding as a child, and having childish things is associated with looking into a mirror that is tarnished, that blocks some of our reflection. And is associated with knowing in part). 2. V12a,c: “For now we see through a glass, darkly;”… “now I know in part;” 3. V9: “For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.” (We have and operate the gift holy spirit, the down payment/guaranty of our future body and power) Right now, we as children have childish things (the 9 manifestations plus any gift ministries), childish understanding, and these childish categories are only a part, or a small part of what God has given us in our current timeframe. 2 Corinthians 1:22 KJV 22 Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts. 83 153 The next part of this dual repletion deals with our future when Jesus Christ returns and we will not only receive a new body, but a new mind, but also the balance of the power promised us from God that will make the power we have now look childish. This repetition shows us what is “… that which is perfect is come” is. Is it the complete written Bible? Or something else that the word “perfect” is referring to? Let the Word tell us what is the “perfect” thing that will end the manifestations and any gift ministries. 4. V10: “But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.” 5. V12:b,d: … “then face to face:”… … “then shall I know even as also I am known.”… What or when is the perfect thing? Verse 12 tells without any guessing. We shall see Jesus Christ, face to face and at that time we will know (new knowledge) as we are also known (God’s children). When shall we see Jesus Christ FACE TO FACE? When the written Bible is complete or when Jesus Christ returns? The word then is used in contrast to the word now, and the word now is used referring to the gift holy spirit and the power it incorporates before the return of Christ. Starting from the Day of Pentecost until the 154 return of Christ. So, the word then only has a few references, and they talk about His return. (Perfect, face to face, we shall know, and be known, and a few more). Therefore, the word then must be referring to the return of Christ, not the completed written Bible which is not even mentioned in this section. When Jesus Christ returns, these childish things, etc. will no longer be needed, and they will be replaced with all the glory God has promised us. 6. V9: “For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.” (When? NOW V12a,c: “For now we see through a glass, darkly;… “now I know in part”) 7. ”) 8. V10b: … “then that which is in part shall be done away.” (When? V12b: … “but then face to face”). 9. V8: “prophecies, they shall fail; …tongues, they shall cease; whether …knowledge, it shall vanish away.” (When? V10 “But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.”) This is telling us that RIGHT NOW, we only have a small portion of what God has available for us in the future, but when the one who is perfect comes back, we will see Him face to face, then these childish things (our limited spiritual powers and our limited flesh and blood body) will cease. 155 Now look at the words “but then” in verse 12b, this tells of a future time, after “that which is perfect is come” in verse 10. In other words, verse 12 has a reference to NOW, and a reference to THEN, and the pair of words are used two times in this verse, making it a repetition that we need to slow down and appreciate what is being said. One is present, (now), and one is future (then). It is set up as an outline: a b, a b. ICo 13:12 KJV 12 For now we (a)-see through a glass, darkly; but then (b)-face to face: now I (a)-know in part; but then shall I (b)-know even as also I am known 1. NOW: a/a “See through a glass darkly,” is to “know in part.” 2. THEN: b/b “face to face” is to “know even as also I am known.” Also, we must look at verse 10, and 11 with the “a, b,” structure above in verse 12 and then put it all together. These three verses all have a “now” and “then” in understanding. 1 Corinthians 13:10 KJV 10 But when that which is perfect is come, (b) (the then understanding), then that which is in part shall be done away. (a) 1 Corinthians 13:11 KJV 156 11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: (a) but when I became a man, I put away childish things. (b) Now let’s make a list of the “now and then” understanding. We will readily see that the two categories are “current” and “future” time periods. NOW: All deal with the day and time we live in right now. After the Day of Pentecost, but before the return of Christ. 1. “See through a glass darkly,” 2. “Know in part.” 3. “Then that which is in part shall be done away.” 4. “When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child:” THEN: All deal with after the return of Christ. 1. 2. 3. 4. “Face to face” “Know even as also I am known.” “But when that which is perfect is come,” “I became a man, I put away childish things.” Now I want to show you two more verses that form “bookends” around 1st Corinthians 3:9-12. There is a repetition of the word “charity” used three times in this “bookend” repetition. Even though all these 157 things will no longer exist after the return of Christ, God’s love will never fail, God’s love will never cease. Now that you understand this section better, these two verses will really fit with the whole topic. 1 Corinthians 13:8 KJV 8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. 1 Corinthians 13:13 KJV 13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity. This whole section (1st Corinthians 13:9-12) I believe is a parenthesis between verses 8 and 13. Even though God has given us a part of His power right now, even though this power and associated knowledge, ministries, etc. will cease at the Christ’s return, God’s love will never cease. And now we should live in God’s love above all even as we live in God’s love in the future. Then, after the return of Christ, we will receive our new spiritual body along with our new spiritual powers from God. Then we will be able to do things like changing how our spiritual body looks to others or being able to travel from one location to another regardless of the distance, in a fraction of a second, just as Jesus Christ did in His new spiritual body 158 before The Day of Pentecost. Beyond the limitations of physics of the physical realm as we know them today. There is a different law of physics that spiritual beings live under. Here is one example of the different laws of physics that Jesus Christ in His resurrected body now lives under. Mar 16:12 KJV 12 After that he appeared in another form unto two of them, as they walked, and went into the country In Mark 16:12, the resurrected Jesus Christ appeared to two men in a totally different human appearance while they were walking towards their country right after He talked to Mary. This was an instantaneous travel from Mary to the two men. The words: “another” and “form” are worth looking at to show you that the resurrected Christ could totally change His appearance, so He was not recognized to those He talked to. The Greek word for “another” is G2087: “heteros,” and is pronounced "heter-os.” And means according to Thayer Definitions: 1b.1) another: i.e. one not of the same nature, form, class, kind, different. This word means in easier terms: another of a different kind or form.84 Greek Lexicon Dictionary), E-Sword Software version 10.4.0, Copyright © 2000-2014, G2087, 1b1. 84: Meyers, Rick, (Thayer’s 159 The other word “form” is the Greek word G3444: “morphē” and is pronounced “more-f,” and means according to Thayer Definitions: 2) external appearance85 That is, in the context of this verse, the resurrected Christ had one human appearance to Mary, and then “morphed” into a different human appearance for the two men. Just like if there were two different people in each situation. Like two friends standing next to each other, They have two distinct human looks that allow you to tell them apart. We will have the same type of body with the same abilities after the return of Christ. If Jesus Christ has already returned, then you would have this power NOW! And we would have already put away [put to an end] the gift of holy spirit (the childish things from 1st Corinthians 13:11 above) and we would have already received much more power with our new spiritual body. So, with simple logic then, if you proclaim that the gift holy spirit is no longer available, then you are saying you are living in the next 85 Ibid., G3444, 2. 160 administration that Paul talked about. Then you should be able to zap yourself to another location and change how you look faster than the speed of light! Well, can you? If you can’t, then you have believed a lie that has originated from God’s arch enemy, Satan, to fool you so don’t believe in the gift holy spirit or its power which is the only way to defeat Satan in our day and time. In other words, Satan has removed another believer from being able to defeat him.86 If you can't change your human form or zap yourself from New York to Las Angles in .001sec, then you are still living in same Grace Administration that started on the Day of Pentecost with the Apostles when they spoke in tongues for the first time, and that means you can still speak in tongues. Proving that you are still living the same Grace Administration as the Apostles did. 2Th 2:1-3 KJV 1 Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him,2 That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand. 3 Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; 1Co 13:11-12 KJV 11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things 12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known 86 161 Let’s read the following verses that plainly teach us when the gift holy spirit will no longer be needed, and our flesh and blood bodies will be replaced with our new spiritual body along with the spiritual powers that God will give us. 1Co 13:8-12 KJV 8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. (9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. 10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. 11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. 12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.) 13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity. Verses 8 and 9 are talking about our current time, that is, what is happening right now, The Grace Administration. Right now, prophecies are just in part, and our knowledge is limited, and tongues are temporary. Prophecy, tongues, and knowledge shall cease to exist when verse 10 comes to pass along with the rest of the manifestations with the gift holy spirit. In verse 11, our childish things will be put away because we will be given our adult body and power, 162 and new knowledge. That will be when Christ returns, face to face as verse 12 says. In 1st Corinthians 13:8-11 there are several figures of speech that tells us without any doubt that the abilities we have now will no longer be available after the return of Christ. But, until then, by simple logic, we do have these abilities called “childish things.” The first figure of speech are the four phrases in verse 8 ending with; “faileth,” “fail,” “cease,” and “vanish away.” This is a repetition in understanding that all except one thing will “STOP.” The word “faileth,” in the Greek means: to perish, to fall.87 The words “fail” and “vanish away” are the same Greek word.88 And the word “cease” is a different Greek word.89 Two of the three Greek words mean to put an end to or cease. This kind of figure of speech is called a “circular repetition” or in the Greek a “cycloides” where the repetition of the same or similar meaning word is repeated at the beginning, middle or end of a phrase.90 And puts the emphasis on the word that is repeated, in this case, the word is at the end of each phrase. “Fail,” “cease,” and “vanish away” are the three Meyers, Rick, (Thayer’s Greek Lexicon Dictionary), E-Sword Software version 11.0.6, Copyright © 2000-2016, G1601, “ekpiptō,” def: 2b) to perish, to fall 88 Ibid,. G2673: 2) to cause to cease, put an end to, do away with, annul, abolish 2a) to cease, to pass away, be done away 89 Ibid., G3973: 1) to make to cease or desist. 90 Bullinger E.W., (Figures of speech used in the Bible), Baker Book House, Grand Rapids Michigan, 16th printing. “cycloides” p. 342, 87 163 words that have two different Greek words that have a similar meaning. There is also another repetition figure of speech in verse 8, that is a repetition in the middle and end of a sentence. It is the two words “fail” and “vanish away” which are the same Greek word mentioned above. The figure of speech is called “mesoteleuton” or “middle and end” repetition.91 Then in verse 8 the phrase “vanish away” at the end of the verse, and in verse 11 the phrase “done away” at the end of the verse is another figure of speech called a “bookend,” a type of repetition that brings your attention to what is written in between the “bookends.”92 So, what is written between this bookend? Well, verse 9 starts out with our current power and abilities, and verse 10 finishes when Christ returns (face to face) when our current power and abilities will cease, stop. And in verse 11 we are given another figure of speech called a “parabola”93, or “an illustration” to further Ibid., “mesoteleuton” or “middle and end,” p. 262, def: The repetition of the same word or words in the middle and at the end of successive sentences. 92 Ibid., “epanadiposis” or “encircling,” (bookend) p. 145 def: it means a doubling upon again, … so called because the word is repeated both at the beginning and the end of a sentence (or section by extension). 93 Ibid., “parabola” p. 751, def: The classical use of the word was for one of the subdivisions of “paradeigma” an example, a presentation of an analogous case by way of illustration. 91 164 explain that we will no longer need our current spiritual toys when Christ returns. Another figure of speech I will call your attention to are the words or phrases from 8-11 that are the same Greek word G2673 “katargeō,”94 translated “failV8,” “vanish awayV8” “done awayV10,” “put awayV11.” That makes four times in four verses that the same Greek word is repeated. This figure of speech is called a “repetition”95, and is more of a general repetition. The last figure of speech and second “bookend” I want to show you is from verse 10 to verse 11 where an “illustration” or “parabola” is between this bookend. In verse 10, the word “done away” and the words “put away” in verse 11 are the same Greek words, and therefore make a “Bookend” that encloses the “illustration” that emphasizes what will no longer be available after the return of Christ. I would say that having five kinds of “repetition” (one is used twice) is making a very important point that God wants us to know! Meyers, Rick, (Thayer’s Greek Lexicon Dictionary), E-Sword Software version 11.0.6, Copyright © 2000-2016. G2673: 2) to cause to cease, put an end to, do away with, annul, abolish 2a) to cease, to pass away, be done away 95 Bullinger E.W., (Figures of speech used in the Bible), Baker Book House, Grand Rapids Michigan, 16th printing. “repetitio” p 263, def: a word or words are repeated, not in immediate succession, as in Epizeuxis; not at the beginning, middle or end of sentences, … not at definite intervals, but frequently in the same passage (or a few verses by extension) 94 165 In sum, these verses are teaching us that right now we live in the same Grace Administration as the Apostles, and the gift holy spirit is still available to us with the same power they had in the first century. We can still speak in tongues and operate the other eight manifestations of the gift holy spirit. We will have these spiritual toys until the return of Christ, when we shall receive a new spiritual body like He showed many people between His resurrection and ascension, and we will also have new powers that will far exceed the powers (ability’s) we have now. And let’s not forget that because we will have a new body and powers, we will be no longer be confined to the laws of physics of the physical realm we live in now; we will receive all new knowledge and power that fits with the physics of the spiritual realm. Here are the figures of speech I shared in 1st Corinthians 13:8-11 for your convenience. 1. Cycloides or Circular Repetition: 1st Corinthians 13:8, “faileth” “fail,” “cease,” “vanish away”: similar words in meaning used at the beginning, middle and end in a sentence. 166 2. “Mesoteleuton” or “middle and end.” 1st Corinthians 13:8, “fail,” “vanish away”: the same word used in the middle and end in a sentence. 3. “Epanadiposis” or “Encircling,” Simply put: “Bookend:”96: 2x: 1st Corinthians 13:8,10; vanish awayV8, done awayV10: and 13:10,11; done awayV10, put awayV11. A repetition at the beginning and end of a section. 4. “Parabola:” 1st Corinthians 13:11: entire verse, a figure that uses an illustration to further explain the truth from verse 10 5. “Repetitio” or “Repetition:” 1st Corinthians 13:811, failV8, vanish awayV8, done awayV10, put awayV11, of the same word in the same topic or context in a few verses. I would say that God has marked this section with so many figures of speech, that He really wants us to understand that until the return of Christ, however long it takes, we will have the gift holy spirit available to utilize so we can defeat Satan in our lives. And without the gift holy spirit, it is impossible to get bornagain, and thus speak in tongues, since the gift holy spirit gives us the ability to speak in tongues plus the Nessle, Jon O, (Repetitions-Revealing a Hidden Key to the Heart of Scripture), Next Reformation Publishing Co. Plainfield, IN. 2018 96 167 other eight manifestations, along with having eternal life and becoming sons of God. 168 ♦ Is speaking in tongues cursing God or Jesus? 1Co 12:3 KJV 3 Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost. Let’s look at 1st Corinthians 12:3 in more detail because there are many denominations that teach you are cursing God when you speak in tongues. This is also one of the first issues that Paul had to deal with, where others outside of their fellowship were saying that they were cursing Jesus when they spoke in tongues because they did not understand the language. In fact, it is just the opposite, no believer can say Jesus is their Lord except by operating the gift holy spirit and speaking in tongues was the first proof that a person was born-again, those that have had made Jesus Christ Lord. That’s right, to genuinely say you are a born-again believer with holy spirit, you will need to speak in tongues by way of the gift holy spirit. This proves to you that you are born-again. This (speaking in tongues) was the “witness” on the Day of Pentecost that Jesus Christ was raised from the dead, proving that He was the true savior from God. You can’t speak in tongues if you are not born-again, 169 so the speaking in tongues is the proof that you have the gift holy spirit in you. You can still be born-again and not speak in tongues, and you can say with your mouth that Jesus is your Lord, but the genuine proof is speaking in tongues. The phrase in verse 3 “I give you to understand” are the two Greek words: G1107: “gnōrizō,” and is pronounced “gno-rid'-zo,” and means: 2) to know, to gain knowledge of, have thorough knowledge of. And the Greek word: G5213: “humin,” and is pronounced “hoo-min',” and means: “you.” 97 Putting these two words together and translating the verse a bit accurately for English: 1st Corinthians 12:3: (Translation according to usage and context) On account of the this, (to be without understanding of spiritual matters, in V1), I will give you a thorough understanding of spiritual matters, since no one speaking by way of the spirit of God (speaking in tongues) says Jesus is cursed. And no one can [truly] say Jesus is their Lord, but by way of speaking by the gift holy spirit (speaking in tongues).” So, Paul is teaching the believers right off the bat that speaking in tongues is not cursing Jesus! Those that teach it is cursing God or Jesus are reading verse 1 and Meyers, Rick, (Thayer’s Greek Lexicon Dictionary), E-Sword Software version 10.4.0, Copyright © 2000-2014, G1107 ref: 2, G5213 ref: 1. 97 170 2, then closing their eyes when they get to verse 3. Even in the King James version verse 3 is very clear in what it is saying. In fact, speaking in tongues magnifies God, just the opposite of cursing God! look at Acts 10:46 where Peter and some people he brought with him to help Cornelius become born-again and declared when Cornelius spoke in tongues that he had magnified God. Act 10:46 KJV 46 For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God… Another thing that speaking in tongues does is that it is perfect prayer to God. The one thing all people want is for God to hear their prayers, God has provided a way to pray to Him without partiality and without selfishness. Speaking in tongues is that way that God has given us to offer up prayers to Him. Look at 1st Corinthians 14:14-15 1Co 14:14-15 KJV 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. 171 So, speaking in tongues is not cursing God, if fact, it is just the opposite, there are many more benefits that I have listed in the Appendix #1 for your convenience, my third book “20+ Benefits Speaking in Tongues Has For You” is a study of each benefit.98 1Co 14:39 KJV 39 Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues. Did you see what Paul wrote the Corinthians concerning speaking in tongues in their lives? He wrote (most likely after he taught them about spiritual matters earlier in his life) to not “forbid” “kōluō” G2967: 1) to hinder, prevent, forbid.99 Paul taught them and wrote them not to hinder or prevent anyone from speaking in tongues! But yet many of today’s Christian denominations are not teaching or promoting the one thing Paul told the Original First Century Church to do! Yet we esteem Paul as the great Apostle who started and received the great truths about getting born-again and teaching us all about how to live by the spirit. Well speaking in tongues is what Jesus said we would do after we have Arbib, Peter, (20+ Benefits Speaking in Tongues Has For You), Sound Wisdom Publications, Camby, IN. 2018-Amazon Books 99 Meyers, Rick, (Thayer’s Greek Lexicon Dictionary), E-Sword Software version 10.4.0, Copyright © 2000-2014. Ref: G2967. Def: 1 98 172 received the gift holy spirit, and what Paul and Peter promoted after they got born-again. Mark 16:17 KJV 17 And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; Even Jesus Christ said we shall speak in tongues as His followers Acts 2:38 KJV 38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive (demonstrate) the gift of the Holy Ghost. One way to demonstrate or manifest the gift holy spirit is to speak in tongues. Acts 1:8 KJV 8 But ye shall receive (demonstrate) power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. Even Peter said that when we demonstrate the power after we are born-again, that demonstration shall be our witness unto the final ends of the Earth that Jesus Christ was raised from dead and sits at the right hand 173 of God! One of the manifestations we demonstrate is speaking in tongues. Ephesians 6:13 KJV 13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. The phrase “take unto you the whole armour of God” means: manifest or demonstrate the complete, all of the armour of God. take unto = “analambanō” – verb - MANIFEST the whole armor (armor = full armor G3833: from G3956+G3696: each and every one) of God! Ephesians 6:13a (more accurate translation) To take into manifestation among you the full armor (each and every one) of God. ana G303 = among lambano G2983 = to take into manifestation panoplia G3833 = each and every one This is our spiritual armour, all nine manifestations of our gift holy spirit that we have to fight our spiritual adversary mentioned in Ephesians 6:12 that God has given us when we got born-again. There are only nine ways to demonstrate this power, speaking in tongues is one of those ways. 174 Now concerning things belonging to the spirit, I would not have you ignorant. 1Co 12:1 KJV 1 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant. Paul states that he is going to expound on spiritual matters so that the believers are not ignorant. The word “gift” is in italics in the King James Version indicating it was added by the translators, there is no Greek word corresponding in the Greek texts. The word “spiritual” is the Greek word: G4152: “pneumatikos” and is pronounced “phyoo-mat-ikos'” and means: 2) belonging to a spirit, or a being higher than man but inferior to God,100 and could be better translated: “Now concerning things belonging to the spirit, I would not have you ignorant.” Paul says a second time that he is going to give us the understanding concerning spiritual matters as 1st Corinthians 12:3a declares. 1Co 12:3-7 KJV 3 Wherefore I give you to understand… Meyers, Rick, (Thayer’s Greek Lexicon Dictionary), E-Sword Software version 10.4.0, Copyright © 2000-2014, G4152, #2 100 175 Now, we must ask ourselves what are the spiritual matters that Paul is about to expound on or give us? We must keep reading, not guess! Look at 1st Corinthians 12:3b-7 where Paul gives the exact topics that he will explain matters pertaining to the spirit. 3 … that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost. 4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. 6 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. 7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. I have already discussed verse 3 in the previous section, so we will look at verses 4-7 to understand the things belonging to the spirit that Paul is going to give us understanding in. 1Co 12:4-7 KJV 4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. 6 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. 7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. 176 Verses 4-7 tell us the two main topics in this chapter is not only about the manifestations of the gift holy spirit that are given every believer, (verse 7), but also that there are gifts to the church with different functions and different abilities to bless the believers. These gifts, (the gift ministries and helps), are at God’s option as far as who will receive them, but it is still God who energizes not only the manifestations of holy spirit but also the gift ministries and helps. (Verses 4-6). The underpinning truth is that it is the same God who energizes all of them for the believers. The spiritual matters that are brought up in this chapter, are describing the differences and functions between the manifestations of holy spirit, and the gift ministries given to the church. In a congregation of believers, all the different abilities are all important to help the believers grew and walk with God’s power, so everyone can profit from God’s grace. Let me just say right now that when I say “church” I mean the believers as a collective of people, not the building. 1. Speaking in tongues is not cursing Jesus, but it is proof to you that you have received the gift holy spirit from God. 2. God has given the Church gift ministries and other helps, to do the work of the Church, and to bless the believers. 177 3. It is God who energizing all these God given abilities. 4. God has given every believer all nine manifestations to operate for the profit to the believer and to the church. We see that Paul is going to expound in these areas so that the believers will be educated in the spiritual matters that concern their walk with God and will allow them to have the most effective fellowships and blessings from God. The next three sections will give you some of the basic topics Paul covers about spiritual matters he will be teaching us, so we are not ignorant. 178 ♦ The three most misunderstood chapters in the New Testament To rightly divide these chapters, (1st Corinthians 12, 13 and 14), we need to read all three chapters as one large section, so we can see the major topics or context they are written in. When we take the time to do this, we will also see a few benefits that speaking in tongues has for us, among other things. We must start at 1st Corinthians 12:1 and see what the main topic is for the next three chapters, even though each chapter expounds on one main topic each. Each chapter is still about spiritual matters that Paul wants us to understand, and not to be ignorant of. 1Co 12:1 KJV 1 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant. This verse is setting the stage for the next three chapters, each chapter will take on one main topic concerning spiritual matters that revolve around the proper usage of the gift holy spirit, and the gift ministries in public and private life, along with the proper attitude. 179 • 1st Corinthians 12:ff101 Is about the different spiritual abilities that God has given to the believers and to the church • 1 Corinthians 13:ff102 Is about the motivation a believer is to have when they operate the Godgiven spiritual abilities. To be motivated by The Love of God. (charity) • 1 Corinthians 14:ff103 Is about the proper usage of the different spiritual abilities within the nine manifestations of the gift holy spirit in your private life and in a gathering of believers in a meeting or public setting. The sub-topic is building up the gathered believers by the proper use of the worship manifestations. Chapter 12 sets the main subject and tone for chapters 12, 13, and 14. These next three chapters are going to talk about the spiritual abilities that God has given the believers and the church and break down their usage for public and private life as a believer. Paul also explains in detail in chapter 13 the mental attitude, the 1Co 12:1 KJV 1 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant. 102 1Co 13:1 KJV 1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. 103 1Co 14:5 KJV 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. 101 180 motivation that a believer is to have when then they operate any of the spiritual abilities that God has given the believer or the church. The analogy about a body in chapter 12 about having many members is a twofold meaning, because the main context is about spiritual matters, and is describing how all the spiritual abilities that are energized by God work together as a larger whole. All the believers have the same basic abilities given to them in the gift holy spirit, but each believer will have a long suit in at least one of them that they operate. Just as a sports team, all the team members have a base set of abilities, but each person will specialize in an ability that will help the team win when they all work as one larger unit. Every ability is important, and every ability is needed to ensure the intended results. No team member or ability is any less needed or more needed, everyone has the same importance to each other, just as every spiritual ability is as important as the next one In Chapter 13, the motivation is the main topic in the larger context of Paul’s instruction concerning spiritual matters that he wrote by Revelation from God. That is: the attitude, the person’s heart to bless and serve others. We shall see that even though believers have all these great spiritual abilities from God via His gift holy spirit we received when we 181 became born-again. Our attitude in how we operate them determines if you will receive the maximum blessing or are you just doing it as a thing to do or to look good in front of others? 1Co 13:1-5 KJV 1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. 3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. 4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, 5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; 1st Corinthians 13:1 gives us the heart or attitude we are to have when we operate the manifestations and gift ministries in our life. Without charity; the love of God, our actions are empty, they have no profit to us at all. You can volunteer and be active in many great causes, but without the love of God, the right attitude, there is no profit for you in the long run. Which leaves the attitude of boosting of your own outward kindness to receive public praise for your actions instead of blessings from God. When you do things with the love of God, you are not concerned with 182 public praise or self-esteem, you are concerned with helping or blessing others first and foremost. Let’s look at the word “charity” which is the Greek word G26: “agapē” and is pronounced “ag-ah'-pay” and means: love, that is, affection or benevolence; specifically, (plural) a love feast: - (feast of) charity ([-ably]), dear, love.104 This word “agapē” is used to describe the kind of love that Jesus Christ loved us with. It is a love from God, then He loved others with that love. Jesus Christ gave us this commandment to love as He loved. This word is always used in the context of God’s love, never human love towards other humans, never a friendship type of love, or a sexual type of love. Joh 13:34-35 KJV 34 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. 35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. Joh 15:9-12 KJV 9 As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. 10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's James Strong, (The New Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of The Bible), Thomas Nelson Publications. 1996, Greek Dictionary of the New Testament, p. 1, ref: 26 104 183 commandments, and abide in his love. 11 These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. 12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. When you have the attitude of utilizing what God has given you in the gift holy spirit without trying to impress others or gain status among your peers, then you will be walking in the love of God, and you will receive the maximum blessing. 1Ti 1:5 KJV 5 Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned: 1st Corinthians 14 is the chapter that gets into the meat of rightly dividing what speaking in tongues, tongues with interpretation and prophecy is all about. This chapter explains fully the proper usage of utilizing these three manifestations in your private and public life. This chapter is all about building up the church, the believers, and those present at the meeting that want to hear the Word of God, and leave blessed and with their needs met. This is the whole purpose of the believers gathering together along with any new people, to make sure everyone’s need is met with The Word of God and by operating the gift holy spirit. 184 1Co 14:1 KJV 1 Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy. 1Co 14:12 KJV 12 Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church. The reason 1st Corinthians 14:1 says it is better to bring forth a word of prophecy is explained in 1st Corinthians 14:12, “... to the edifying of the church.” If you notice that these two verses are very similar in what they say, just in a different way. The whole purpose of this chapter is to build up or to edify the church, those in the meeting, followers and new people, and the best way to do this is to have the believers bring forth a message from God by operating tongues with interpretation or a word of prophecy that would be in the language that is common to all the people in the meeting. It is human nature to gather around others that speak the same language you speak, or else how would you talk to each other? These meetings will always be set up with people that speak the same language. 185 ♦ The same person who spoke in tongues is to interpret – in the church The next chapter in this group of three chapters (1st Corinthians 14:ff) in which I will share a bit more with you deals with doing things to profit the believers as the result. So, when you are gathered together, you are to use the parts of the gift holy spirit that are best utilized so all the gathered believers will benefit as a group. Speaking in tongues is not to be dismissed as many denominations teach, but it is discussed in its proper perspective in a believer’s life. That is why in a group of believers it is better to speak in a language that everyone can understand so they all can be blessed. There are two manifestations that involve speaking in tongues; speaking in tongues and tongues with interpretation.105 Now we need to find out when to speak in tongues, and what is the profit to speak in tongues, and when to speak in tongues and believe to interpret in a group of believers, and what is that profit. Back to our main question: Why speak in tongues when no one can understand it in the room? 1Co 12:10 KJV 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: 105 186 1Co 14:16-17 KJV 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. 1Co 14:19 KJV 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. These verses are used to “prove” by many churches that don’t believe in speaking in tongues, that there is no profit to speak in tongues since no one can understand them. And if I also take these verses out of the context that they are written in, I could come to the same conclusion. In 1st Corinthians 14:2 speaking in tongues by itself is not speaking to men, but speaking unto God, and you are speaking mysteries. 1Co 14:2 KJV 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. 187 If you also read 1st Corinthians 14:16-17 again, speaking in tongues give thanks to God. You should also notice that you and God are the only two recipients or beneficiaries of speaking in tongues, so you are not “speaking in the wind!” You are speaking with God. Speaking in tongues is not meant to be spoken around other believers, or in a meeting setting, because the language you speak will be an unknown language to you and others but known to God. Therefore, in the presence of believers or in a meeting setting, it is more profitable to manifest the parts of the gift holy spirit that will bless the whole congregation. Therefore, we must read verse 3 and 4 where it says that the manifestation of prophecy (that which is spoken in the native language of the person speaking) is preferred because it will build up, exhort, and comfort the believers in the meeting. You should notice both speaking in tongues and prophecy are there to edify. Prophecy edifies the “men” and “church” (that is, those in the meeting). And speaking in tongues only edifies the person who is speaking. 1Co 14:3-4 KJV 3 But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to 188 edification, and exhortation, and comfort. 4 He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church. In 1st Corinthians 14:13, the context is in a group of believers, a fellowship meeting, and declares the proper procedure for speaking in tongues in a group setting. It declares that each one interprets what they just spoke in tongues. It does not say let someone else interpret, as some translation and versions record. It has been a bad translation in 1st Corinthians 14:27-28 that has caused this error in understanding and lead to a false doctrine in many denominations core beliefs. 1Co 14:13 KJV 13 Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he (the one who just spoke in tongues) may interpret. 1Co 14:27-28 KJV 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. These verses state very plainly that the person who speaks in tongues is to believe to interpreted so that everyone in the meeting can be blessed with a message from God, which is similar in the end to a word of prophecy. The essence of “pray that he may 189 interpret” in 1st Corinthians 14:16b is to believe to interpret the tongues that you just spoke, prayer is to be accompanied with believing action. 1st Corinthians 14:27 is describing a meeting setting, that if you have up to three people speak in tongues one after another, they are to interpret what they just spoke in tongues before the next person starts. Look at 1st Corinthians 14:13 again, it declares that the person who speaks in tongues is the same one who interprets the message. So, 1st Corinthians 14:27 must also fit with this very clear verse on who is to interpret the speaking in tongues. In 1 Corinthians 14:27, the phrase … “and let one interpret,” just doesn’t fit with the very plane verses that declare that the same person that spoke in tongues is also to believe to interpret. So, what do we do to understand this phrase, so it makes sense with clear verses on this topic? We look at the whole verse and the context in which it is written. Because verse 13 is very clear on “who” and “when” a person interprets speaking in tongues, and because Verse 27 is about having up to three people manifesting in a believers meeting “by course” (in order), then it must be understood that each person will interpret “their own” speaking in tongues before 190 the next person starts, according to verse 13’s instruction to each person in a believers meeting. This is one the ways the scripture interprets itself in the “context” of a topic where we need to look at other places in the Bible where the same topic is discussed, and if we are given more detail in other areas on the same topic, then the previous details are to be “understood” later, as in this case. Since 1st Corinthians 14:13 is very clear that the person who speaks in tongues in a meeting setting is to pray (or believe) to interpret what they just spoke in a tongue, 1st Corinthians 14:27 assumes you already understand this and therefore does not explain it again. We may be children in malice, but God wants us to be men (adults) in understanding.106 Which brings me to 1st Corinthians 14:28, another verse that needs to be understood with other verses that are talking about the same topic that gives us details that are to be understood without repeating the details. This verse must fit with the many clear verses that are already mentioned. Here is the verse in question. 1Co 14:28 KJV 1Co 14:20 KJV 20 Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men. 106 191 28 But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God. We need to look at the word “interpreter” in this verse and understand what it means. And we need to look at this word considering I Corinthians 14:13 that explains “who” is supposed to interpret the tongue just spoken. The word “interpreter” is the Greek word G1328: “diermēneutēs,” and is pronounced “dee-er-mainyoo-tace',” and means: to interpret fully.107 But to get a fuller meaning, we should look at the future tense of the word that it comes from. This is the Greek word G1329: “diermēneuō,” and is pronounced “dee-ermain-yoo'-o.” and means: to interpret, translate, explain from one language into another. 108 That is: to translate from speaking in tongues into the native language that that person speaks. 1st Corinthians 14:28 says in essence according to the context: 1st Corinthians 14:28 that if the one who just spoke in tongues does not believe to fully interpret, then they should be quiet in the church and speak to God privately, to yourself. Zodhiates, Spiros, Th.D., (The Complete Word Study Dictionary: New Testament), AMG Publishers, Chattanooga, TN., Revised 1993. p. 455 ref: 1328 108 Ibid p. 455 ref: 1329 107 192 I can suggest this because of the earlier verses that discuss speaking in tongues is prayer between you and God. When this verse is understood with all the clear verses on this topic, and we study the Greek words a bit, we see that the King James translation is a bit off, or at least confusing when we compare the clear verses with a few that seem not to fit neatly with the rest. That is how I got the essence of this verse. Now, this verse fits and no longer contradicts any verse that discusses this topic. This chapter in 1st Corinthians is teaching about things belonging to the spirit, and specifically about the operation of speaking in tongues, tongues with interpretation and prophesy. It is laying out “how,” “when,” and “why” the believers are to use speaking in tongues and speaking tongues with interpretation and prophecy in particular. This chapter lays out the logic of blessing the church first and foremost within the confines of these manifestations of worship “in the church.” That is, a group of believers that are gathered together in a meeting situation. 1Co 14:23-28 KJV 23 If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, (without the interpretation) and there come in those that are 193 unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad? 24 But if all prophesy, (which will be in their natural language) 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; (interpretation of tongues and prophesy will touch each person’s heart differently) 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 (each one) interpret. 28 But if there be no interpreter, (If he doesn’t believe to interpret) let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God. (Which is prayer) The main reason to manifest the gift holy spirit or to read the bible is to build up the people in the meeting with words of edification and comfort. Eliminating confusion is very important, so doing things in order is very important to eliminate any confusion. Speaking in tongues is speaking to God, and it is speaking mysteries with God. It is not speaking to men and therefore is not preferred in a group of believers. But, the manifestation of prophecy is, because that would be in the language of the believers 194 (their born language) because this will bless everyone in the meeting, since they can understand every inspired word spoken. Speaking in tongues is for your private prayer life, not to be used alone in a group of believers in a meeting setting. 1Co 14:4 KJV 4 He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church 1Co 14:14-15 KJV 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. Jud 1:20 KJV 20 But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in (by) the Holy Ghost (the gift holy spirit), Speaking in tongues is also perfect prayer to God. It is prayer between you and God, so, it is a private matter, keep it that way! When you look at the major context of 1st Corinthians 14:ff, it is all about making sure when you operate the manifestations in the church, or in a group of believers 195 properly, the goal is to build up the others present with you. So, in this context speaking in tongues without the same person believing to interpret it is not the best use of speaking in tongues by itself in a group of believers. In a group setting, the manifestation of prophecy is preferred because that will be in the language that the person naturally speaks, as those who are gathered with him. So, they will all understand the blessing from God, and all of them will be built up. I am not going copy 1st Corinthians 14:ff here, but, I encourage you to read it now before you read any more. 196 ♦ All the gifts of God’s grace are energized within our gift of grace “holy spirit” by God In this section, I am going to look at gift ministries and 1st Corinthians 12:4-6,11 in relation to how God energizes these ministries by our own gift holy spirit that every believer receives when they are born-again. To fully understand this, we should read over the parentheses that list the manifestations in 1st Corinthians 12:7-10 and read verse 11 after we read verse 6. Then we will see that God energizes all the spiritual gifts (including the gift holy spirit) according to the believer’s willingness to operate them. 1Co 12:4-6, 11 KJV 4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. 6 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. 11 But all these (gifts, administrations, and operations) worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. Gift ministries are given by God on a limited basis to men or women, but the person who receives a ministry must still be willing to operate it. When a person gets born-again, they receive the gift holy spirit; this is spiritual power from God, and we all 197 receive “the (full) measure”109 of that gift of God’s grace, that is “the gift of holy spirit.” Within this gift of grace called “the gift holy spirit,” may also be other gifts of God’s grace, including gift ministries. These ministries are not realized in a new believer’s life at first, but, as the new believer grows in walking by the gift holy spirit and grows in service to the church, then the ministry (or ministries) will become more obvious in their life. God does not give you a ministry after you mature in God’s Word, as you mature, if you have a ministry, that ministry will become obvious in your life among the believers as you are willing to serve in that area. Rom 12:3 KJV 3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. Eph 4:7 KJV 7 But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ. Eph 4:7-8 KJV 7 But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ. 8 Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. 109 198 So, there will be no more “spiritual power” given to anybody. Then, how are the gift ministries operated if we do not receive any more spiritual power from God? Many churches teach that God gives a “2nd work of grace” to some believers, and these can include the gift ministries. They teach that the believers have a higher level of Christendom, but, not by their works, but by God’s grace, and part of this 2nd Work of grace is that they have obtained “sanctification.” Well, that can’t be right, according to 1st Corinthians 1:30, we are all sanctified when we are born-again, with among other things, we also receive forgiveness of sin. Sanctification is to be made “holy” by God, this is the spiritual reality, sanctification is part of our gift holy spirit we receive when we get born-again. 1Co 1:30 KJV 30 But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: To live holy requires that the person is willing to renew (change) their mind, so they don’t commit sin in their life according to The Word of God, not by receiving a 2nd Work of grace that somehow magically cleanses that person’s life from committing sin. Too many denominations “combine” God’s “spiritual” cleansings through the works of Christ with man’s desires to have God take away their “physical” desires to sin in life. Do you want to not sin anymore? 199 Then you need to stop what you are doing that causes you to sin! your mind to stop doing anything that causes you It is your responsibility to renew to sin, NOT GOD’S. A manmade 2nd work of grace can only cause you to blame God for not doing a good enough job with His 1st work of grace when you got born-again if in the future you sin again. It is your own responsibility to stop the things in your life that causes you to sin. You do this by renewing your mind to live God’s Word. And don’t wait or pray for God to take them away for you, that will never happen! There is no 2nd work of grace, it is a lie to promote sin in a person’s life if they haven’t received that 2nd work of grace from God yet; because now they can blame God for their sin that hasn’t left them yet. 1st Thessalonians 4:1-12 clearly states and shows that the person is encouraged to change their own habits so they can “walk honestly.” God will not “take 200 away” your bad habits, you must do it yourself by renewing your mind to live according to The Word of God. Then you can take responsibility for your own Christian walk, rejoicing in the blessings you receive by your own believing. It is clear in this section that now that you received sanctification from God as part of the new birth, you are now asked to “live” in that sanctification in your actions. That is something you must do as a believer. Look at the first verse in 1st Thessalonians 4:ff, Paul says he beseeches you and exhorts you to walk as you ought to walk to please God more and more. That is, you are to change your sinful habits by learning how to control your life. Paul did not say that God will take away your sinful actions, Paul said you are to take away your sinful actions by renewing your mind (thoughts) to live God’s Word. 1Th 4:1-12 KJV 1 Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more. 2 For ye know what commandments we gave you by the Lord Jesus. 3 For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: 4 That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour; 201 5 Not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God: 6 That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter: because that the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and testified. 7 For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness. 8 He therefore that despiseth, despiseth not man, but God, who hath also given unto us his holy Spirit. 9 But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another. 10 And indeed ye do it toward all the brethren which are in all Macedonia: but we beseech you, brethren, that ye increase more and more; 11 And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you; 12 That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that ye may have lack of nothing. Those that believe in a 2nd work of grace by shifting their responsibility to “renew their own mind and change their ways,” to having God take away their sinful desires, will eventually lead to the thinking they no longer must believe to receive God’s promises. But, instead, they “ask” (in reality, beg) God to bless them “if” it is His will. This is no more than an excuse not to truly live God’s Word and take responsibility for their own actions. With this false doctrine, they can blame God for their 202 lack of believing. Sayings like; “If you will have mercy on our family, please heal our son,” are red flags that this type thinking is prevalent. The general definition of “a 2nd work of grace” is: “In the Holiness movement, the second work of grace is considered to be a cleansing from the tendency to commit sin, an experience called entire sanctification which leads to Christian perfection.” 110 Different denominations have slightly different explanations of this. So, Wikipedia’s is a more general definition with links to other denominations and their explanations. Part of having “Christ in you” is to be born-again, and sanctification is part of what God made unto you “in Christ Jesus.” There is no need for a 2nd work of grace from God to become sanctified after being forgiven of your sin from being born-again. If we all have received “the full measure” of the gift from God, then, these ministries must be operated with the spiritual power we already have! And since we have the “full measure,” there is nothing else God can give us concerning His gifts of grace. 110 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_work_of_grace 203 Let’s look at 1st Corinthians 12:4-6, and 11 for a better understanding. Since God gives us the gift holy spirit when we are born-again, we receive all God has made available to us in that gift of God’s grace that is given to every believer. In verses 4-6 we see the breakdown of the gifts of God’s grace that are set in the church to edify the church. That is, to help the believers grow in maturity in God’s Word. In verse 11 we see that all these “gifts of grace” are operated by the believer’s willingness to operate them. So, where the confusion has crept in, is that in I Corinthians 12:7-10 there is a parenthesis, grammatically we can “skip over” these verses to verse 11 so we can keep the topical flow without interruption. The word “but” in verse 7, sets the next four verses in contrast to the context of the verses before them, verses 4-6. 1st Corinthians 12:4-6 is a short explanation of the different gifts of grace, and verse 11 is a closing conclusion that declares God’s responsibility to energize His gifts of grace, and the believer’s responsibility to be willing to operate them as needed. As an added note, the last part of verse 6 “… but it is the same God which worketh all in all,” is like the first part of verse 11 “Therefore all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit (God)…”, are similar 204 phrases…. That is: God is the one who energizes all the gifts of grace. Since these have similar meanings in verse 6 and 11, this is a “bookend” and although verses 7-10 are a parenthesis, God has placed this bookend to call our attention to that God also energizes all nine manifestations. Which is included in the phrase “But all these” in verse 11. 1st Corinthians 12:7-10 is added as a parenthesis to let each believer know that all the manifestations of the gift of grace called “holy spirit” to each believer is also included conclusion of verse 11. 1Co 12:4-6,11 KJV 4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. 6 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. 11 But (Therefore) all these (gifts of grace v4-6a) worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. a) V4: ministries, helps, holy spirit, b) V5: different “offices” or “positions” c) V6a: different ways the offices or positions operate d) V6b: God is the one who energizes them in different ways. 205 e) V11: God will energize them as the man wills to operate them, individually or severally, Before I go any further, there is one Greek word that is most of the time translated “but.” But we need to understand that there are other words it can be translated to, depending on whether it is used in an “adversative” way, or in a “continuative” way. The context in which it used will tell us how to translate it. The word “but” at the beginning of 1st Corinthians 12:7 and 12:11 is the same Greek word “de,” and can be translated, “but,” “on the other hand,” “and,” “also,” “now” or “therefore.” The word “but” in I Corinthians 12:7 and 12:11 is the Greek word G1161, “de,” and is pronounced “deh” and means: a particle standing after one or two words in a clause, strictly adversative, but more frequently denoting transition or conversion, and serving to introduce something else, whether opposed to what precedes or simply continuative or explanatory. Generally, it has the meaning of: but, and, or also, namely. (I) Adversative: meaning: but, on the contrary, on the other hand. (II) Continuative: meaning: but, now, and, also, and the like. And I want to list division B under section II, (B) Where it takes up and carries on a thought which had been interrupted, meaning then: therefore.111 Zodhiates, Spiros, Th.D., (The Complete Word Study Dictionary: New Testament), AMG Publishers, Chattanooga, TN., Revised 1993, p. 399, ref: 1161 main def. and I and II 111 206 In 1st Corinthians 12:7, the word “but” is used as an “adversative” and is correctly translated “but,” or “on the other hand.” Verse 7 is to read as “in contrast” to verses 4-6 that precedes verse 7. In 1st Corinthians 12:11, the word “but” does not make any sense to be “in contrast” with verses 4-6 preceding the parentheses of 1st Corinthians 12:7-10. So, the word “but” is used as a Continuative and should be translated “now or therefore” according to the contextual flow for 1st Corinthians 12:4-6, (7-10), 11. The parentheses of 1st Corinthians 12:7-10 interrupts the thought flow of 1st Corinthians 12:4-6 that picks back up in verse 11. Now to look at one more Greek word that is used in 1st Corinthians 12:6 and 11 and can be regarded a repetition in two verses that can be read as if verse 11 was right after verse 6 in printing. The word is “worketh” in verse 6 and verse 11, which is the verb form. This word connects 1st Corinthians 12:6 with verse 11 with the truth that is God that energizes every aspect of any part of the gifts of grace, but it is up to each believer to “will” to operate any of God’s gifts of grace. There is a third word in 1st Corinthians 12:6 that is the noun form of the word “worketh,” the word is “operations” and refers to the result that energy 207 produces (the verb form). So, God has different kinds of results when He energizes His power in us. There are three words in two verses that come from the same root word. Therefore, a repetition is involved to call our attention to this section. The word “worketh” in 1st Corinthians 12:6 and 11 is the Greek word G1754, “energeō,” and is pronounced “en-erg-eh'-o,” and is the verb form, means: From G1756; to be active, efficient: - do, (be) effectual (fervent), be mighty in, shew forth self, work (effectually in).112 We get the word “energize” from this word. When we read 1st Corinthians 12:6 and 11 together, we will see a great hidden truth, that it is God who energizes all the different gifts of His grace as we are willing to operate them. Here is more literal rendering to consider: 1Co 12:6,11 KJV 6 And there are deference’s of energized results, but it is the same God which energizes all in all. 11 Therefore all these (gifts of grace) are energized by that one and the selfsame Spirit, (God) distributing to every man his own, as the man wills. Strong, James, (The New Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of The Bible, Concise Dictionary of the Greek Testament), Thomas Nelson Publications. 1996, p. 32, ref: 1754 112 208 God gives you gifts of His grace, and God energizes these gifts in different manners that produce different results. But it is God who does all the energizing as the believer has the willingness to operate them. God cannot energize any of these gifts of grace without the person wanting to operate it. God cannot energize speaking in tongues without the person willing to start to speak in tongues. Then God can energize the spirit in you to speak in tongues “as you speak,” for example. When we read verse 11 beginning with the word “therefore all these…” (gifts of grace, administrations, and operations), it fits together and makes sense. And it keeps the reading flow from verse 6 as we read that all of these “gifts of God’s grace” are energized by God, but, as the believer wills to operate them. Now, it is that the last phrase is the phrase in 1st Corinthians 12:11 (… dividing to every man severally as he will.), that almost every denomination has gotten wrong. They all teach that verse 11 is saying that God’s gives speaking in tongues to one, and the interpretation of tongues another person in a believers meeting. When they work the verse, they don’t “work” the pronoun “he” in the phrase “dividing to every man severally as he will.” They teach that the pronoun 209 “he” is God, but a pronoun is referring to the “closest associated noun,” not the closest noun. They teach it is God that “wills” the different gift of His grace to go into operation. NO! God “energizes” His gifts of grace AS THE MAN “WILLS” to operate them. The key is the word “associated,” and staying within the phase, this would point us to the noun “man.” So, all of God’s gifts of grace are to be operated by the person who “wills” to operate them. God does not possess or force anyone to operate any of His gifts of grace. Whether it be a gift ministry or one of the operations of the gift holy spirit, the believer must be willing to operate what God has given them. 1st Corinthians 12:11 is telling us, under no uncertain terms that it is God who energizes all the spiritual power that He has given us, but it is up to the individual believer to operate that power in their private prayer life, and with the body of believers to build up the church. 1st Corinthians 12:4 says there are different gifts of God’s grace. (Gift ministries, helps, governments, and the gift holy spirit which has nine operations). 1st Corinthians 12:28 gives us a very general overview that God has different types of gifts, 1st Corinthians 12:28 breaks down a few of the operations from each category of the gifts. It lists a few gift ministries, a few gifts in the 210 helps category, and a few of the operations from the gift of holy spirit. 1Co 12:28 KJV 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. 1. Gift ministries listed: apostles, prophets, teachers 2. Gift of holy spirit operations listed: miracles, gifts of healings, diversities of tongues 3. Gifts in the “helps” category listed: helps, governments These are the three categories of “gifts” from God to the church, the body of believers. This is what 1st Corinthians 12:4 is talking about. 113 We get more information in 1st Corinthians 12:5 that tells us these different categories of service (or offices) have different ways to operate the different tasks in each category. That is, in the “gift ministries” category, the office of an apostle operates differently than an office of a prophet, the office of a teacher operates differently than an office of an evangelist, or, 1Co 12:4 KJV 4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 113 211 in other words, how you serve with each ministry is different. In the “gift of helps” category, an organizer operates or serves differently than one that sets up for large meetings. In the “gift of holy spirit” category, prophecy operates differently than miracles. That is what 1st Corinthians 12:5 tells us, that there are different ways to serve the body of believers. Each has its own skill set and requirements to best carry out what is needed to serve the body of believers. In 1st Corinthians 12:6 we see that God energizes these gifts differently, and God energizes all of them! God has unlimited ways to energize any of the gifts of grace in each person. One person will operate the ministry of a teacher differently than someone with the gift ministry of a teacher because God will work in them with their personality, and their skill set. One person may receive revelation with a still small voice, while in another instance, that person may receive revelation with a vision. God will energize His power in you that is personal to you, so you will “get it,” understand it, so you can carry it out. We see that God has several gifts of grace for the church, and within those gifts of grace, there are different ways to serve the church, and within those ways to serve, God will energize His power in you in 212 a very personal way, to go with your skill set, so you can be as effective as possible in service to the church. Now we have 1st Corinthians 12:11, the next verse in the contextual flow, jumping over the parentheses of 1st Corinthians 12:7-10, which, by the way, breaks down the individual functions of “the gift holy spirit,” being one of the gifts of God’s grace. That is why 1st Corinthians 12:7-10 is a parenthesis. 1Co 12:11 KJV 11 But (therefore) all these (V4-6) worketh (are energized by) that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he (the man) will. This verse is almost unbelievable when you look at the contextual flow and understand what “all these worketh...dividing to every man severally as he (the man) will(s)” to operate. I have already worked this verse for another topic, but now I want to show this verses true colors, and I believe this will truly bless you when you see the bigger understanding that it is not just about operating the manifestations, but the principle taught in this verse can be applied to operate the manifestations rightfully. This verse that links to verses 4-6, tells us a great truth about how the gift ministries operate within our gift of holy spirit! 1Co 12:11 KJV 11 But (Therefore) all these (the different gifts of grace of 213 V4,5,6) worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, (God), dividing to every man severally as (distributing to every man his own, according to) he (the man’s) will. Those that have been given other gifts like a gift ministry by God’s choice, must also “will” to operate that ministry in their life to bless the believers. A believer could have the gift ministry of a teacher, but, if they don’t study and have a burning desire “to teach others,” then they won’t see that ministry grow in serving the church. God does not force you to teach others, it must be by your own willingness to teach what you are seeing in God’s Word as you study. To discover a long suit in any area, you need to start to serve in any way you can. As you serve in different ways, there will be things that you enjoy, and others that bore you. The things you enjoy you should pursue more and more. The gift ministries are not a special power that God gives you as an erroneous 2nd work of grace given to a man. But, when a man or women is born-again, they receive one gift of holy spirit with all that God gives to every believer. So, you can have a gift ministry or other helps to serve with, but, as a believer, you must grow in applying God’s Word and in serving God’s people. As you grow spiritually and serve in many ways, you will find a niche that you are good in. As you desire to teach (for this example), you are, by your 214 willingness to operate as a teacher, allowing God to energize the gift holy spirit that is already in you to teach God’s people most effectively. If you have the ministry of a teacher, you will see it mature as you teach more and more. This is the great truth in 1st Corinthians 12:11, that all the gifts of God’s grace are operated as the man wills to operate them, whether it is a “gift ministry,” a “gift of helps,” or the gift holy spirit, the believer “must” will to operate any of them. This does not mean that you can “believe” to receive a gift ministry, (if God has given you a ministry, it was given you when you got born-again), but you can believe to give in the capacity that is needed in an area even if you don’t have a ministry. You won’t know what long suit you have until you start to serve in any way you can, as you study God’s Word and serve the body of believers. Then as you grow, you will know what blesses you, and what areas you want to serve in. There will be at least one area of service that you are great at, and God will energize your gift holy spirit as you willingly serve in that capacity to best build up the body of believers. God does not give you “extra” holy spirit, God energizes the gift holy spirit that you 215 already have in that area that you are willing to serve in. 216 4: Appendix: #1: What profit does speaking in tongues give us in the 21st Century? This list is taken from a small pamphlet by Rev. Wayne Clapp,114 though is it not a copy and paste, it is an abridged explanation of the original work. My additions are in parentheses. 1. I Corinthians 13:1; 14:10: It is speaking a language of men or angles; it is not gibberish. 2. I Corinthians 12:3, Zephaniah 3:9: It is not cursing God or Jesus Christ, it is a pure language. 3. Mark 16:17: It confirms the written Word, it is a sign from a Christian believer. 4. I Corinthians 14:4a, Jude 20: It builds up the believer spiritually. 5. Romans 8:16: It is bearing witness with God that we are His children. 6. Romans 8:17a: It is a witness that we are joint heirs with Christ, and heirs of God. 7. Ephesians 3:16, II Corinthians 4:16: It strengthens us with might in our inner man. (also see #4 above). 8. I Corinthians 14:22a: It is a sign to the unbelievers. Clapp, Wayne, (Ready and Willing) Christian Family Fellowship Ministry, 1575 State Route 571 West, Tipp City, Ohio, 45371, p. 8-12 114 217 9. Acts 2:32,33: It proves the resurrection and ascension of Christ. 10. Ephesians 1:13b, 14: It is our guarantee of a new spiritual body in the future. Just like Jesus Christ had after his resurrection, that he has shown many people before his accession. 11. Galatians 5:22-23: It produces the fruit of the spirit. 12. Romans 10:9-10, I Corinthians 12:3: It declares Jesus is Lord, it affirms to us that we have obeyed Him as Lord to speak in tongues (Mark 16:17). 13. I Corinthians 12:8-10: It provides a foundation for the operations of the other eight manifestations. If you can speak in tongues, you can do the rest. 14. I Corinthians 14:2: It provides a way to speak mysteries to God. To open our heart to God in secret. 15. Acts 2:11: It provides a way to speak the wonderful works of God, to speak of the great victories He has done for us. 16. Acts 10:46a: It magnifies God. It celebrates our relationship with Him. 17. Romans 8:26, I Corinthians 14:15: It provides a way to pray perfectly. 18. I Corinthians 14:17: It provides a way to give thanks well when I want to thank God for His goodness and graciousness unto me. 218 19. John 4:24, Philippians 3:3: It provides a way to worship in spirit and in truth. 20. Acts 13:52, I Thessalonians 1:6: It provides a way to be filled with joy. (as opposed to happiness which is based on outside influences, joy is an “inside” job). 21. Isaiah 28:11-12: It provides a way to refresh or invigorate oneself. (if you are exhausted, or faint, speaking in tongues will help to regenerate your strength). 22. Isaiah 28:11-12, I Corinthians 14:21: It gives rest to the soul. It can calm us down. 23. Romans 8:11: It provides a way to quicken our mortal bodies. It not only strengthens our inner man; it adds life to our physical bodies also. 24. Romans 8:26-27, Ephesians 6:18-19, Romans 1:9: It provides a way to make intercession for the believers and the work of the ministry. We simply stay our mind on the person or situation to which we to direct the power of God and speak in tongues. 25. Acts 1:8: It provides power for effectual witnessing. We can not only pray for doors of utterance but by the very operating of the power of God, makes our witness more effectual. 26. Romans 8:14-15, Galatians 4:6: It provides a way to open your heart intimately to the Father. 27. I Corinthians 14:13,27: Speaking in tongues, when exercised with its companion 219 manifestation of interpretation of tongues, brings forth a message of edification, exhortation, and comfort to the believers. (And any non-believers in the meeting). Since speaking in tongues does so many great things, we must be reminded that the spirit in us does not have a will of its own, but what it hears, that is what will do. And that our spirit is subject to us, and because of that we decide what manifestation to operate. The same is true with all these things that speaking in tongues can do. We need to decide which of these benefits we want to see and then speak in tongues as we stay our mind on “that” benefit. Speaking in tongues can be very versatile, and powerful in every aspect of our life. Joh 16:13 KJV 13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he (the gift holy spirit) shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he (the gift holy spirit) shall hear, that shall he (the gift holy spirit) speak: and he will shew you things to come. 1Co 14:32 KJV 32 And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. 1Co 12:11 KJV 11 But all these (gift ministries, helps, manifestations of holy spirit) worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. 220 #2: The Hours of Prayer Biblically The following chart is from Wayne Blank.115 Hours Of The Day The term "hour" referred to a period of time, one-twelfth of the daylight part of the day. While daylight is longer in summer than in winter, and therefore summer "hours" were longer than winter "hours," as a general rule the first hour was equivalent to 6 to 7 am on a modern-day clock, and so on: The first hour = 6 to 7 am The second hour = 7 to 8 am The third hour = 8 to 9 am The fourth hour = 9 to 10 am The fifth hour = 10 to 11 am The sixth hour = 11 am to 12 pm The seventh hour = 12 to 1 pm The eighth hour = 1 to 2 pm The ninth hour = 2 to 3 pm The tenth hour = 3 to 4 pm The eleventh hour = 4 to 5 pm The twelfth hour = 5 to 6 pm 115 http://www.keyway.ca/htm2003/20031223.htm 221 #3: What is “our witness” of proof of the resurrection of Jesus Christ? To understand what “our 21st-century witness” of a past event that we were not “eyewitnesses” to physically, we need to understand what God has given us as a born-again believer; the gift holy spirit which the Bible declares is “Christ in you.”116 If we are to be a witness of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, then God must provide us a way to be an eyewitness of an event that has happened before our birth. In fact, that witness must be at least just as valid in a legal sense to be believed in relation to what God’s Word teaches us about being a witness. Our witness must have the same results that the first century had when the new born-again believers manifested, and others saw those results that convinced them that these new believers did do the same things that Jesus Christ did while He was alive. This witness is very different from a normal witness that we are used to by current definition, because whatever God gave us when we were born-again had to make us an eyewitness of a past event even though we were not alive at the time and one that cannot be disputed because of the type of proof we show people. Col 1:27 KJV 27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: 116 222 So, we will be looking at the word “witnesses” in the Bible so we can see what the principles and qualities are of what a witness is. Here we will learn what God’s Word declares what our witness is, and then we will be no longer be ignorant of this matter. ♦ What is our eyewitness today? The first two uses the word “witnesses” in The Old Testament gives us some important principles that will stay relevant in the 21st Century and beyond, as far as making sure our witness is a valid proof of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Even though we have the written Word that we can declare to others and show them what God has done for them, there is still another witness that is outside of the Bible. A witness that is in us, a witness that God gives to everyone who becomes born-again, a witness that gives us similar power that Jesus Christ had before His death and resurrection, a witness that cannot be disputed as being a credible witness. 2Pe 1:19 KJV 19 We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: The word “witnesses” in the Hebrew is H5707: “‛êd”, and is pronounced “ayd”: and means: a witness; 223 abstractly testimony; specifically, a recorder, that is, prince: - witness.117 We see two parts of being a witness: An 1eye witness and 2one who testifies or reports what they saw. If we are to be witnesses of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, we must have these two parts of what a witness is. 1. An eyewitness 2. One who testifies or reports by telling and/or showing something. Now let’s look at a few places this word is used in the Old Testament so we can gather more details about what a witness is. Num 35:30 KJV 30 Whoso killeth any person, the murderer shall be put to death by the mouth of witnesses: but one witness shall not testify against any person to cause him to die. Deu 17:6 KJV 6 At the mouth of two witnesses, or three witnesses, shall he that is worthy of death be put to death; but at the mouth of one witness he shall not be put to death. Here is some detail that we need to remember. If someone was accused of murder, there needed to be 117 Meyers, Rick, (Strong’s Hebrew Dictionary), E-Sword Software version 10.4.0, Copyright © 2000-2014. Ref H5707. 224 at least two eyewitnesses to convict and sentence them. They had to have two eyewitnesses that testified against the murderer. God set up two eyewitnesses to be required in any capital crime before a person could be found guilty. By taking this major precept from this example, to accept a witness with creditability, two people who saw the incident must have the same account of what happened. The two qualities are: 1. Must have two eyewitness 2. Must testify before others what they saw. So, to carry this through so we can be a witness of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, we need to have two eyewitnesses, and a way to testify in front of others. Obviously, we can’t be an eyewitness since we were born many decades after the event. So, who and/or what are our two witnesses? The only thing that is changed after we get born-again is that God has created a spirit in our body, and that spirit has nine ways to manifest (or testify) of itself in the senses realm that proves God’s spirit is in us. The Apostle that replaced Judas (who betrayed Jesus Christ) must have been an eyewitness from the Baptism of John to His ascension into Heaven. 225 Act 1:20-26 KJV 20 For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take. 21 Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection. 23 And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. 24 And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen, 25 That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place. 26 And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles. The gift holy spirit is also a witness of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The gift holy spirit must have the same requirements that Apostles used to pick Matthias. Act 5:30-32 KJV 30 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree. 31 Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. 32 And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, (the gift holy spirit) whom God 226 hath given to them that obey him. God has chosen witnesses of the resurrection that has not only seen Him but also ate and drake with Him in His resurrected body. Act 10:36-41 KJV 36 The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:) 37 That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; 38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. 39 And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree: 40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; 41 Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. Act 13:29-31 KJV 29 And when they had fulfilled all that was written of him, they took him down from the tree, and laid him in a sepulchre. 30 But God raised him from the dead: 31 And he was seen many days of them which came up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are his witnesses unto the people. 227 Because of how the gift holy spirit is activated in us; by our willingness to operate a manifestation, and that it takes God and the created spirit (two spiritual entities) in us to relay information and/or power to our brain and actions so we can bring forth the nine manifestations into the sense’s realm. We have the two witnesses needed for creditability. I have replaced the word “he” with the closest associated subject it replaces, and that would be the phrase “the spirit of truth” which is another way to say “the gift holy spirit” when you read the context these verses are set in. Joh 16:13-15 KJV 13 Howbeit when he (it) the Spirit of truth, is come, the gift holy spirit will guide you into all truth: for the gift holy spirit shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever the gift holy spirit shall hear (from God), that shall the gift holy spirit speak: and the gift holy spirit will shew you things to come. (From the Christ in you via the 9 manifestations). 14 The gift holy spirit shall glorify me: (Jesus Christ) for the gift holy spirit shall receive of mine (me), and shall shew it unto you. 15 All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that the gift holy spirit shall take of mine (me), and shall shew it unto you. God and Jesus Christ bear witness of who we are; sons of God. That is: these two spirits bear witness; (a requirement to be a credible witness) God, and His son 228 Christ Jesus, the “Christ in us” is the gift holy spirit with nine ways to evidence (testify/witness) in the senses realm that Jesus Christ did indeed rise from the dead. Rom 8:16 KJV 16 The Spirit itself (God) beareth witness with our spirit (Christ in you), that we are the children of God: Also, look at these verses to further explain Romans 8:16. Once we receive into manifestation the gift holy spirit, we are witnesses of the resurrected Christ. Acts 1:8 KJV 8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. Jesus Christ taught them between His resurrection and ascension that they would be a witness of Him to the whole world. He said that they would receive power and become witnesses after they received that power, the gift holy spirit. A credible witness is an eyewitness and testifies. The gift holy spirit has nine ways to testify and because God and Christ in us are involved so we can manifest any of the nine manifestations, this is also why we have a credible witness. 229 The spirit we received when we were born-again is our credible witness, according to Acts 1:8, Acts 2:3233 and Romans 8:16, that declares the speaking in tongues that they saw and heard on the Day of Pentecost, is the witness that Jesus Christ, via the spirit that was in them was the witness of His resurrection that God provided for us. The speaking in tongues is one of the ways we testify or witness that Jesus Christ is raised from the dead.118 Acts 2:18 KJV 18 And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy: Acts 2:22-24 KJV 22 Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know: 23 Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain: 24 Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it. Acts 2:32-33 KJV 32 This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are 1Co 14:22 KJV 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. 118 230 witnesses. 33 Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear (referring to Acts 2:18) Not only were the Apostles eyewitnesses in their life, but they also declared that everyone that saw and heard the speaking in tongues on the Day of Pentecost were now witnessing the witness of the resurrection, even though they had not physically seen Jesus Christ in His resurrected body as the Apostles did. Another thing a witness does is repeat what has been done, this is the testify part, they recount the actions of those involved. It is important that they are faithful, truthful, and reliable when reporting what has happened. You really can’t be a witness until you testify what you saw and heard. There is another aspect of being a witness that we may forget at times. Not only does a witness testify of events they have seen and heard, but in the case of born-again believers that operate the gift holy spirit in a meeting via tongues with interpretation or prophecy, which is a witness we have already covered. A witness as a leader is to teach others the Word of God concerning the greatness of what God made available on the Day 231 of Pentecost to anybody who wants to believe and become born-again. The only guideline is to teach faithful people who can teach others also. 2Ti 2:1-2 KJV 1 Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2 And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. When you have witnessed something and keep it inside you can’t be a witness (in its full sense) until you tell somebody, anybody. That is how a witness works, you must testify in front of others before you are a witness. Your proof (witness) that you are born-again is that you manifest speaking in tongues, this is the proof that you have made Jesus your Lord. You also see and hear yourself speak in tongues, so, you are a witness to yourself that you are born-again. It doesn’t mean you are not born-again if you don’t speak in tongues, it means that you have not yet testified in the sense’s realm by way of the gift holy spirit the proof that you are born-again. 1Co 12:3 KJV 3 Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: 232 and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost. On the Day of Pentecost, after the twelve Apostles spoke in tongues in over thirteen languages in front of hundreds, possibly thousands of people gathered in the Temple, what they said amazed those that heard it, and they declared it was “the wonderful works of God.” What do you think those “works” were? Jesus Christ said to the Apostles in His resurrected body that after they received the gift holy spirit, they would be witnesses of Him unto the uttermost parts of the earth. What was the gift holy spirit to be a witness to? To Him! Jesus Christ said that in His resurrected body, this is one thing the gift holy spirit would be a witness to, that Jesus Christ was raised from dead, never to die again in His new spiritual body. This was one of “the wonderful works” that God had done. Giving the gift holy spirit to all that get born-again is another “wonderful work” that God did. How about the fulfilling of the Law through the birth, life, death, and resurrection of God’s only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, that is another “wonderful work” of God. Those people who were gathered in Temple when the Apostles spoke in tongues must have heard these accounts of God’s wonderful works and more on 233 what God did to redeem man throughout the ages up to the Day of Pentecost, which was the fulfillment of every event that led up to that day. The purpose of the ages when God could give man His spirit unconditionally. Isa 8:2 KJV 2 And I took unto me faithful witnesses to record, Uriah the priest, and Zechariah the son of Jeberechiah. Act 1:8 KJV 8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. Act 2:11 KJV 11 Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God. Look at what Isaiah says regarding a three-part man. A man with body, soul, and spirit. Man is born with a body and a soul (life), and when they get born-again, God creates a spirit in them, making man body, soul, and spirit, that is: formed, made, and created. Look at verse 9 below, that witnesses declare “former things” … IE: the wonderful works of God. I believe this is a prophecy of what the Day of Pentecost would declare. When you read about what happened on the Day of Pentecost, and then read 234 these verses in Isaiah, it seems to mirror the experience and does mention that God has made man a three-part being with body, soul, and spirit. That was not available in its fullness until the Day of Pentecost. Isa 43:7-11 KJV 7 Even every one that is called by my name: for I have created him for my glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him. 8 Bring forth the blind people that have eyes, and the deaf that have ears. 9 Let all the nations be gathered together, and let the people be assembled: who among them can declare this, and shew us former things? let them bring forth their witnesses, that they may be justified: or let them hear, and say, It is truth. 10 Ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, and my servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me. 11 I, even I, am the LORD; and beside me there is no saviour. These verses in Isaiah can still be true in the 21 st century, as we spread the Word to every nation concerning who is Jesus Christ, and what God gave us as a gift to all that believe. God has chosen us from before the foundation of the world to be His sons and to be a part of His family through what His only begotten Son had done, and through God’s gift to all 235 of mankind so we can believe God and understand God. As witnesses, we declare former things among the people so they too can believe that God is the only true God and that they can be a part of God’s family with all the benefits of a son. Today, in the 21st century, we have the gift holy spirit that bears witness of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, when we speak in tongues, we know we have the witness in us, and when we speak in tongues with interpretation in a meeting, those that are not believers, will see and hear that manifestation and it will be a sign for them. 1Co 14:21-22 KJV 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. 22 Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth (are for a sign) not for them that believe not, but for them which believe. Our true witness today is the gift holy spirit that has nine ways to manifest (testify) the wonderful works of God so others can see and hear what God has done. It is our proof that God has raised His only begotten son from the dead, and that we also have eternal life and the promise of the same kind of spiritual body that Jesus Christ got when He was raised from the dead. 236 By operating the gift holy spirit in our life, we also remind ourselves of this wonderful hope when Christ returns. Our witness is as credible as having two eyewitnesses to confirm that someone has committed a crime in the Old Testament, and for us to be able to confirm that Jesus Christ was raised from the dead, we also need two witnesses to be credible to others. To operate any of the nine manifestations of the gift holy spirit, we need God (first witness) to energize that gift in us as we “will” to begin to operate one or more of the manifestations. Then the Christ-in-us (second witness) will relay all the information to our mind so we can act on it to bring into the sense’s realm as a witness, the testifying of our witnesses as we operate any of the nine manifestations in front of others. 237 #4 Numbers in Scriptures 1. Unity, new beginning 2. Union, Division (divided night from day on the 2nd day), Witness or establishes (2 witnesses establishes the facts) 3. Completeness, Divine perfection, (when we are born-again, we are complete 3-part beings: body, soul, and spirit 4. Worldly, God’s Creation, God and His relationship with His creation 5. God’s Grace 6. Man’s number, man’s imperfection w/o God 7. Spiritual completeness, finished works 8. New beginning, Super abounding from the completeness of #7, The new birth is the first of a new era and a new beginning (1+ being the eighth) 9. Finality, Judgment, Conclusion, 9 manifestations are involved with judgment at times, There are 9 graces of the“fruit” of the spirit (32) 10. Perfection of divine order 11. Disorder, Disorganation, Imperfection, Disintegration 12. Governmental perfection For a detailed explanation of these numbers in scriptures read: “Bullinger, E.W. (Numbers in Scripture), Kregel Publications, Grand Rapids, Michigan. Reprint 1994” 238 I Works Cited Arbib, Peter, (20+ Benefits Speaking in Tongues Has for You), Sound Wisdom Publications, Camby, IN. 2018 Bullinger E.W., (Figures of speech used in the Bible), Baker Book House, Grand Rapids Michigan, 16th printing. Bullinger, E.W., (The Companion Bible), Kregel Publications, Grand Rapids, Michigan. Bullinger, E.W., (Numbers in Scripture), Kregel Publications, Grand Rapids, Michigan. Reprint 1994. Freeman, James M., (Manners and Customs of the Bible), Logos International, Plainfield, New Jersey, reprinted 1972. Meyers, Rick, (Thayer’s Greek Lexicon Dictionary), E-Sword Software version 10.4.0, Copyright © 2000-2014. I II Meyers, Rick, (Strong’s Hebrew Dictionary), E-Sword Software version 10.4.0, Copyright © 2000-2014. Nessle, Jon O., (The Summer of Truth, The Revelation of Christ’s Sermon on the Plain), Next Reformation Publishing Co. Plainfield, IN. 2014 Nessle, Jon O., (Repetitions-Revealing a Hidden Key to the Heart of Scripture), Next Reformation Publishing Co. Plainfield, IN. 2018. Society of Biblical Literature: The Luce Center, 825 Houston Mill Road. Atlanta, GA 30329 (The SBL Greek Septuagint-Online version) Strong, James, (The New Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of The Bible), Thomas Nelson Publications. 1996. Thayer, Joseph H., (Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament), Baker Books House, Grand Michigan, 24th printing. Zodhiates, Spiros, Th.D., (The Complete Word Study Dictionary: New Testament), AMG Publishers, Chattanooga, TN., Revised 1993. II

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