Journal: Bibliotheca Sacra
Volume: BSAC 172:686 (Apr 2015)
Article: Rethinking Tongues
Author: Stanley D. Toussaint

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BSac 172:686 (April-June 2015) p. 177

Rethinking Tongues

Stanley D. Toussaint

Stanley D. Toussaint is Senior Professor Emeritus of Bible Exposition, Dallas Theological Seminary, Dallas, Texas.

Abstract

Looking primarily at the book of Acts, this article discusses the definition of New Testament tongues, the contents of speech in tongues, and the primary purpose of tongues. It explores alternatives and surveys grounds for understanding that New Testament tongues are human languages spoken by people who have not learned them, voicing prayers of request, praise, and thanksgiving to God, as a warning of impending judgment for first-century Israel.

The subject of tongues1 in the New Testament is huge and the literature immense.2 It seems that innumerable pamphlets, periodical articles, books, dictionary and encyclopedia articles, and discussions in commentaries consider the topic.3 The goal of this study will be modest, focusing primarily on the book of Acts. Three facets of tongues are discussed in this article–a definition of tongues in the New Testament, the subject matter or contents of what was spoken in tongues, and very importantly, the purpose of tongues.

BSac 172:686 (April-June 2015) p. 178

A Definition

Because of disagreement about what the New Testament means by the term “tongues,” a definition is essential, and some basic issues are settled when the term is defined.

All agree on two meanings for γλῶσσα, “tongue.” Agreement exists that the first meaning is “an organ of speech” (e.g., Mark 7:33, 35; Luke 1:64; 16:24; Acts 2:26; Rom. 3:13; 14:11; 1 Cor. 14:9; Phil. 2:11; James 1:26; 3:5, 6, 8; 1 Pet. 3:10; 1 John 3:18; Rev. 16:10). The word secondly is used of a language (Acts 2:11...

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