12 Bible Verses About Speaking In Tongues

Written by: Evelyn Johnson
Published on:

This article delves into the topic of speaking in tongues, a spiritual gift mentioned in the Bible.

The twelve powerful Bible verses about speaking in tongues are presented, along with insights on how this gift should be used in a respectful and orderly manner.

The article also recommends reading 1 Corinthians 12-14 for a deeper understanding of this spiritual practice and its importance in building up the church community.

Overall, the Bible presents speaking in tongues as a valuable gift, but one that should be approached with humility and discernment.

Bible verses about speaking in tongues

Here are twelve powerful Bible verses about speaking in tongues:

1. “And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” – Acts 2:4
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.” – 1 Corinthians 14:2
3. “He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.” – 1 Corinthians 14:4
4. “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.” – 1 Corinthians 14:22
5. “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.” – 1 Corinthians 14:27
6. “But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; 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:” – 1 Corinthians 12:7-10

7. “And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and spake the word of God with boldness.” – Acts 4:31
8. “For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people.” – Isaiah 28:11
9. “And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;” – Mark 16:17
10. “And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.” – Acts 19:6
11. “For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful.” – 1 Corinthians 14:14
12. “If any man speak in a tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret.” – 1 Corinthians 14:27

What does the Bible say about speaking in tongues?

The Bible mentions speaking in tongues as a spiritual gift given by the Holy Spirit to believers.

It is described as a form of prayer or communication with God that is not understood by the speaker or listener unless there is interpretation.

Speaking in tongues is seen as a way to edify oneself and build up the church community.

However, the Bible also emphasizes the importance of using this gift in an orderly and respectful manner, and warns against using it to show off or elevate oneself above others.

Overall, the Bible presents speaking in tongues as a valid and valuable spiritual practice, but one that should be approached with humility and discernment.

What Bible chapters should you read if you want to learn more about speaking in tongues?

1 Corinthians 12-14 are the Bible chapters that discuss speaking in tongues in depth. These chapters are relevant to speaking in tongues because they provide guidance and instruction on the proper use and interpretation of this spiritual gift. They also address the importance of love and unity within the church community, and how speaking in tongues should be used to edify and build up the body of Christ. Additionally, these chapters address the potential misuse and misunderstanding of speaking in tongues, and provide clarity on how it should be practiced in a way that honors God and benefits believers.

Ideas and concepts related to speaking in tongues that are also taught or mentioned in the Bible.

1. Baptism of the Holy Spirit – This is the experience of being filled with the Holy Spirit, which is often accompanied by speaking in tongues. It is believed to empower believers for ministry and to deepen their relationship with God.

2. Spiritual Gifts – Speaking in tongues is one of the spiritual gifts mentioned in the Bible. Other gifts include prophecy, healing, and discernment. These gifts are given by the Holy Spirit for the edification of the church.

3. Prayer and Worship – Speaking in tongues is often associated with prayer and worship. It is seen as a way to communicate with God in a deeper, more intimate way.

4. Unity in the Church – The gift of tongues can be divisive if not used properly. The Bible emphasizes the importance of unity in the church and encourages believers to use their gifts in a way that builds up the body of Christ.

5. Evangelism – Speaking in tongues can be a powerful tool for evangelism, as it can be a sign to unbelievers that God is at work in the lives of believers. However, the Bible also emphasizes the importance of using language that is understandable to those who are listening.

Evelyn Johnson - Bible Verses
Written by Evelyn Johnson


Evelyn Johnson is a theologian, Bible expert, and the founder of EncouragingBibleVerses.org, a trusted resource for uplifting and empowering Bible verses.

With a Master's degree in Divinity, Evelyn is dedicated to studying and interpreting the Bible. Her website features curated collections of verses on various topics, along with insightful commentary and practical tips for everyday life.

Evelyn is also a sought-after speaker and author on matters of faith and spirituality. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and volunteering in her local church and community.

Learn more about her and read her other articles here.