In 1 Corinthians 14, Paul mentions those who, when speaking in tongues, utter “mysteries.” Does this phraseology support the idea that these tongues are not human languages, but, instead, special “ecstatic” tongues?
Does the Bible sanction a speaking in “tongues” that involves the utterance of “ecstatic” sounds that are understood only by the speaker and God? Sincere Pentecostal folks answer in the affirmative. They contend that these indiscernible sounds are the “tongues of angels” (1 Cor. 13:1). This article demonstrates that there is no support for such a view in the Corinthian text.
Is the gift of speaking in tongues still being given by the Holy Spirit?
Does 1 Corinthians 14:2 indicate that the “tongue” was a mysterious, spiritual utterance, known only to God, rather than a human language?
What is the meaning of Paul’s command, “Forbid not to Speak in tongues” (1 Cor. 14:39)? Does this imply that the gift of tongues was to continue to the end of time?
A controversial question is whether women should be used as translators in the public worship assembly. Some, who would object to the modern practice of women leading public worship, have no problem in using a female translator. Others object to the practice. Carefully study this question with an open mind. Let God’s word be our guide during this study.
The conversion of Cornelius in Acts 10 contains valuable lessons for today.
The human tongue is a dangerous weapon and exceedingly difficult to control. Let us consider some various forms of speech condemned in Scripture.
A critic, who believes that “speaking in tongues” is a gift available in this age, believes he has detected a flaw in our position that the gift of tongues was restricted to the first century. Based upon his view of 1 Corinthians 13:8ff, he argues that if “tongues” are obsolete, then “knowledge” should be as well. Since we still have knowledge, it is claimed, tongues remain as well. Here is our response to the gentleman’s objection.
Speech is a very special gift from our Creator. It is a fresh challenge each day to channel our words for good.
The book of Genesis is a narrative dealing with “beginnings,” as the title of the document indicates. One of the beginnings in Genesis is the record of how human beings came to speak different languages.
When we think about miracles in the New Testament, we often consider the miracles of Christ in the Gospel accounts. There are, however, many miracles recorded in the book of Acts. A survey of these miraculous works is worthy of our reflection.
The Bible frequently speaks of the “reading” of the Scriptures, and even the reading of them aloud. Is this mere circumstance, or is there a deeper truth implied in these descriptives?
The account of David and Goliath’s battle teaches numerous spiritual principles.
Must a woman keep silent in the church? The term “silence” in 1 Corinthians 14:34 is often misunderstood and misapplied.
Another argument which denies the essential role baptism plays in our salvation is answered.
Did every Christian in the first century receive the gift of performing miracles?
In response to a recent article in which we argued that instrumental music in Christian worship is without divine authority, a critic replied by suggesting that we practice many things in Christianity that are bereft of authority. One example he cited was the use of Bible translations. In this week’s Penpoints, we refute this baseless quibble.
This question discusses whether or not a woman may ask a question in a Bible class without violating the Scriptures.
Are the visible signs of Matthew 24 indicators of the Lord’s Second Coming or of a conflict that would occur within the life span of “that generation”?