Other Languages

On the Jewish holiday of Pentecost, followers of Jesus Christ experienced a remarkable event when they were baptized and filled with the Holy Spirit. They began to speak in languages they had never learned. Jewish individuals from various foreign lands who spoke the local languages of those countries had come to Jerusalem to worship. They were filled with awe and wonder as they heard a group of Jesus' followers—simple fishermen—speaking in these foreign tongues!

In response to this miraculous occurrence, Peter stood up to explain the gift of the Holy Spirit and the promise of free salvation through Jesus Christ. That day, he led thousands to believe in Him.

Later, while Peter was at the house of a non-Jewish Roman commander, the Holy Spirit came upon everyone present, just as it had on Pentecost. The Jewish companions accompanying Peter witnessed non-Jewish individuals speaking languages they had not learned (Acts 10:44-46).

The events recorded in the Book of Acts may initially give the impression that everyone filled with the Holy Spirit speaks unlearned or other languages. However, upon closer examination, especially when considering verses such as Acts 4:31, we find that while believers were indeed filled with the Holy Spirit, not all spoke in unlearned languages. The Apostle Paul addresses and clarifies further about this gift:

“Do all have gifts of healings? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret?” 1 Corinthians 12:30 (NKJV)

The transformative power of the Holy Spirit has undeniably changed the lives of millions. However, it's important to recognize that not everyone possesses the gift of speaking in unlearned languages; these gifts are given at the discretion and foreknowledge of the Holy Spirit. In 1 Corinthians 13:1, Paul further elaborates on this topic, discussing the concepts of divine love and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. He references two distinct types of unlearned languages: the "language of angels" and the "language of people.

Furthermore, we can recall several instances in Scripture, such as Acts 2:6-8 and Acts 10:46, where God communicated directly with individuals using the "language of people" without any need for interpretation. This highlights the diverse ways in which the Holy Spirit operates among believers.

The gift of speaking in the "language of angels" presents a unique challenge in a group setting, as it requires interpretation for clarity and understanding. According to 1 Corinthians 14:27, an interpreter is essential for others to grasp the message. Although speaking in the language of angels edifies the speaker (1 Corinthians 14:4), it remains incomprehensible to both the speaker and the audience (1 Corinthians 14:14) unless someone translates it into everyday language. 

In contrast, consider the significant events where followers of Jesus were filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke in the "language of the people." These were spoken languages from various countries, which the speakers had not learned beforehand. Notably, there was no need for interpretation since the Jewish individuals from those regions understood the languages. Similarly, when the Holy Spirit granted the ability to speak different languages in Cornelius's house, it surprised the Jewish visitors accompanying Peter. They were astonished to witness non-Jewish individuals speaking in unlearned languages!

So, each type of language serves a specific purpose and goal. Take, for example, the event of Pentecost. If the disciples spoke in the "language of angels," the bystanders would not recognize it as extraordinary unless someone interpreted the message. However, the challenge remains: how could the onlookers trust that this interpretation was genuine and not fabricated? In contrast, when the disciples spoke in unlearned "languages of people," it provided clear evidence for the spectators that God was indeed at work among them.

Speaking in an unlearned language is considered a miracle, as it is imparted directly from the Holy Spirit rather than being learned from others. When the Holy Spirit bestows the gift of speaking in an unlearned language, he also equips the individual to speak it (as seen in Acts 2:4). While some Christians believe that everyone should speak in unlearned languages or learn from others how to do so, this contradicts the principles laid out in Scripture. Ultimately, it is solely at the discretion of the Holy Spirit to grant this gift.

Disregarding these sensitive matters can negatively affect the church and individuals. Those who are filled with the Holy Spirit but possess gifts other than languages may feel undeserving of the ability to speak in unlearned tongues, leading them to believe that God does not love them sufficiently. This perception could drive some individuals to fake speaking in other languages. At the same time, many might ultimately choose to leave the church or their group.

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