1. The Holy Spirit decided which individuals received gifts. (12:11)

2. The gift of languages did not prove one was right with God.
I Corinthians 12:10 clearly says some in the church did not have the ability to speak in tongues.

3. The ability to speak in languages was not one of the greater gifts. (12:28, 31) Speaking in languages is last on the list. In 14:1-5, Paul says it would be better to be able to prophecy instead of speak in tongues.

4. Speaking in tongues was of no value to others unless there was an interpreter present. (14:6-12)

5. Tongues were for a sign to unbelievers, not believers. Paul even said that if an unbeliever heard the tongues without interpretation, he/she would think the tongue speakers were out of their minds. (14:22,23)

6. Tongue speaking was a controlled action! A tongue speaker was told to keep quiet if there was no interpreter present. (14:27,28)

How does one get the gifts?

   Copyright © 2000, Charles Valentine