THE THREE GIFTS OF POWER.

4. THE GIFT OF FAITH. “Pistis.”

The gift of faith is not saving faith, the fruit of faith, or even a prayer of faith, however, these are the necessary basis of a gift of faith. The gift of faith is an act of divine power. It is a supernatural confidence and power imparted by God to meet a specific need through an act of His power. It is the operation of God's power in the spiritual realm, and acts upon angels and men. It is an out-shining of God's faith and power. It is certainly not a mere ritual, or pretence, it is the greatest of the power gifts.

The gift of faith can give divine protection in danger and persecution. Exod.3v10. 7v10. 14v19,20. Judges.15v9-20. 16v20. Dan.6v16-23. 3v17,18.25. Lk.4v29,30. Jn.7v44-46. 8v59. 10v39. Acts.5v17-26. 12v1-11. 27v18-44. It can give divine strength, comfort and peace in persecution and need. Heb.11v35-39. Acts7v54-60. 6v15. Lk.9v27-36. 22v42-44. It can bestow spiritual blessings; and even mould and protect people's lives in the future. Gen.27v27-41. Heb.11v20. Gen.48v8-28. Heb.11v21. Mk.10v13-16. It can impart spiritual power and authority. Numb.11v24-29. 27v18-23. Deut.34v9. Exod.18v25. 2Kings.2v9-14. Mt.10v1-8. Lk.10v1-24. Acts.13v1-4. It can impart the baptism and gifts of the Holy Spirit, Acts.8v14-19. 9v17. 19v1-6.; and revival outpourings, Acts.2v1-4. 4v23-31. 10v44-48.. It can remove hurts, wounds and scars inside people, and change their personality for good. 1Sam.10v6,11. 16v12,13. Lk.4v18. 2Cor.10v1-5.

N.B. It is difficult to put the casting out of demons under any other gift than the gift of faith; it is true that Mk.9v38,39., tells us that the casting out of a demon is "an act of power," however, every power gift is "an act of power," it is the sphere of operation which decides which power gift is in operation. The operation of spiritual power in the unseen spiritual world is certainly best described by the gift of faith, for it is a realm where we need faith to see and operate. We can say with certainty that we have to live close to God to deal with evil spirits, as the apostles found out. Lk.9v1,2,37-42. with Mk.9v14-29. Acts.19v11-17,

People have been judged by God through the gift of faith, even during the New Covenant of grace. Acts.5v1-11. 12v1-5,21-24. 13v6-12. 1Cor.5v1-5. 1Tim.1v20. However, this was rare because Jesus came to save and bless, not to judge or condemn. Ex.9v8-12. 11v1-12v36. 2Kings.1v8-16. 5v25-27. Judgement is a "strange act" to a God of love. Is.28v21. Mt.5v44. Rom.12v14. 1Cor.4v12. 14v16. 2Cor.2v1-8. However, this age will close with a mighty manifestation of the gift of faith in judgement. Rev.11v5,6. Compare. Numb.23v23.

Some think that Elijah being fed by the ravens was a gift of faith, I feel that it was a working of miracles; I feel that miracles of provision such as Ps.78v24-25. Lk.8v1-3. and 1Kings.19v4-8., come within the scope of the gift of faith. However, it is foolish to be dogmatic over this, as the gifts do fringe upon each other in certain areas, and make definition difficult. The important thing is to enjoy our heavenly Father's miracles of provision, and His other good gifts; correct definition is of secondary importance, however, a correct definition is of real value when it acts as a key to the experience and regulation of the gifts.



5. THE GIFT OF WORKINGS OF MIRACLES. “Energemata dunameon.”

In 1Cor.12v2. the ministry of workings of miracles comes fourth in the list and before gifts of healings; one needs greater authority from God to manifest this gift, than a ministry of healing. God may give a person the authority to manifest one gift, but not the authority to manifest another gift.

The working of miracles must not be confused with the other power gifts. A gift of healing is a miracle of healing, an act of dunamis, but it is not a working of miracles. All physical healing comes within the scope of the gifts of healings, even creative instantaneous miracles of healing. The gift of faith gives authority in the spiritual realm, where only faith can see, it gives authority over men and angels. The working of miracles gives authority and power over material things and nature, it effects mans environment. The gifts of healings give authority in the physical realm, over infirmity, disease and sickness.

"Workings of powers or miracles," or "activities that call forth miracles," "energemata dunameon," could well describe all the nine gifts of the Holy Spirit, they are all the result of the operation of God's power, however, the Scriptures show us that workings of miracles acts on man's material environment.

A Definition of The Workings of Miracles.

The working of miracles is an operation of divine power that changes natural law and material things, and produces seen miraculous efforts in man's material environment. The workings of miracles can interrupt, suspend, or control the laws of nature, it is the operation of the power of God upon material things, vegetation, and the rest of the living world apart from man.

The workings of miracles can be a mighty sign that displays the almighty power and majesty of God. Ex.6v6,7. 8v15. 9v16. 15v11-16. Deut.4v34. 5v115. Josh.2v9-11. 5v1. It has been used to confirm the message of God's prophets. 1Kings.13v1-10. 1Sam.12v16-25. 1Kings.18v36-39.

It has also been used to confirm God's word and call to a person. Judges.6v1-40. 7v9-14. 2Kings.20v1-11. Ex.7v10. with Numb.17v8. 2Kings.2v13-15. Lk.5v1-11. 1v20-23,63,64. 2v10-12,34. This gift can establish faith in people and powerfully confirm the Gospel message. Jn.2v1-11,23. 6v1-14,26,27. Mt.15v32-39, Mk.14v22-36. 16v15-18. Jn.5v19,20,36,44.

It has often provided food and other material needs for the children of God, when no human or natural resources were available. Ex.5v35. 16v13. 17v1-7. Num.11v31. 2Kings.2v19-22. 4v1-7,38,44. 6v1-7. 2v13-15. Mk.6v32-44,48. 8v1-9. Lk.5v1-11. Jn.21v3-11. Mt.17v24-27. It can deliver from danger. Exod.14v16-21. 15v23-25. Lk.8v22-25. Mt.14v24-33. 6v18-21. Acts.16v25-34.

This gift has sometimes been used in divine judgement. Ex.8v1 to 10v29. Numb.16v19-35. Josh.10v6-14. 1Kings.17v1. 18v1,42-46. James.5v14-20. Mk.1v12-14,20-24. The emphasis during this age of grace is upon God's love and mercy, and not judgement; however, at the end of this age the two witnesses of Rev.11v1-8. N.B. v5,6., and doubtless other Christians, will have authority and power given to them to bring judgement upon their evil foes through this gift.

God's power gifts gave Israel victory in war. The operation of the power gifts through Moses was greater than the military might of either Israel, or their enemies. Ex.17v11-13. Josh.6v20. The power gifts of Elijah and Elisha made them into "the horses and chariots of Israel," that is, the protective spiritual and military might of Israel, and their loss was deeply felt. 2Kings.2v12. 2Kings.13v14. Samuel's power gifts frightened the Philistines more than Saul's picked army. 1Sam.7v4-14. with 13v1-23. There have been many men of God who have defeated seemingly "invincible foes" through the power gifts of God. Gen.14v1-17. Judges.7v16-25. 15v7-20. 1Sam.14v1-14. 17v11-58. 2Chron.14v9-13. 15v6. 17v3. 20v1-25.

When the apostles were delivered from prison by angelic ministry, we could say that there were three gifts of revelation and two gifts of power in operation, it was really one display of God's power and ability. Acts.5v16-24. 12v1-17. The resurrection of the dead also calls for the operation of what we would call several power gifts, in one burst of the power of God. 2Kings.13v20,21. 4v32-37. Lk.7v11. 8v41.

Is supernatural transport a workings of miracles or a gift of faith? Is the faith active or passive? 1Kings.18v11,12. 2Kings.2v16-18. Ezek.3v12-15. 8v3. Acts.8v39,40. Jn.6v20,21. Rev.12v14. Was the harmless snake poison a working of miracles, or a gift of healing? Acts.16v1-6. Mk.16v18. Was Samson killing the lion, a working of miracles or a gift of faith, or both? Judges.14v5,6. Possession of this gift is more important than definition, particularly in these dark last days. Let us earnestly desire these precious power gifts of God.


6. THE GIFT OF GIFTS OF HEALINGS. "Charismata iamaton."

Gifts of healings should not be confused with medical care, however, Christians should be the last to disparage the work of doctors and nurses, who are dedicated to the relief of suffering. There is a very definite place for natural healing, indeed, God gave the Israelites sound medical advice on rest, food, hygiene, quarantine and sanitation, etc., which has been recognised by modern medicine. Divine healing must also not be confused with "healing" by Spiritualism, Christian Science, and other occult means, which are forbidden by God, those who go to them for healing are in very real spiritual danger. Lev.19v31. 20v6. Deut.18v8-20. Is.8v19,20.

WHY HEALING FROM GOD MAY NOT OCCUR, OR BE DELAYED.

a. Because of unbelieving, "not for today" preaching. 1Jn.5v14,15. James.3v1.

b. Because of the lack of faith and power in the person praying for the sick. Mk.9v14-29.

c. Because a sick person is not prepared to get right with God, or seek God for healing. Ex.23v25. Mk.2v1-12. Jn.5v1-9,14,44. 12v42,43. Ps.15v1-5. 24v3-6. 34v12-22. 66v18. Prov.28v13. Exod.15v26. Rom.8v11. Mt.11v20-24. There is divine sickness as well as divine healing. 1Cor.11v28-32. Ps.73 all. 119v67,71-75. True faith and repentance will always be rewarded. Heb.11v6.

d. Because gifts of healings do not enable us to avoid the consequences of intemperate living. Adequate food, rest and sleep are essential to good health. Ps.103.v3,5. 127v2. 107v17-21. 1Cor.6v20. Eph.5v29. Phil.2v25-30. Col.2v27.

e. Because of a wrong attitude to the person who is praying for the sick, either in the form of criticism, or in the form of idolatry. Mk.6v1-6. Is.43v8. Acts.3v12,13. 1Cor.1v26-31. with Jer.9v23,24.

f. Because God may desire to try to improve a Christians character. Job.2v4-10. God tries and disciplines those who do well, as well as those who do badly. Heb.12v4-12. Prov.3v11,12.

g. Because of the shocking state of some of the churches. In many churches the Christians are at sixes and sevens and have a bitter spirit toward each other, or they are prayerless, too spiritually lazy, and too worldly to defeat Satan, and sin in the camp often makes victory impossible. Josh.7v1-26. 8v1. 1Cor.3v1-3. Mk.11v22-26. Mt.18v15-35. Jn.13v34,35. 15v12-14. Elders often merely go through undemanding formal prayer, instead of praying through for the sick until a positive answer comes from God. We have to follow Elijah's example of persistent prevailing prayer to get results in divine healing. James.5v13-18. 1Kings.18v43.

h. Because a persons allotted span of life is reached; there is a time for even mighty men of God to die. Ps.90v10,12. 2Kings.13v14,20,21. Is.57v1,2. 1Kings.14v11-13. Deut.34v7. Josh.14v7-15. Phil.3v20,21. 1v20-24.

i. Because God knows that the natural healing process He has put in the body, or a simple natural remedy, will produce healing. Prov.17v22. Ezek.47v12. 1Tim.5v23.

THE VARIOUS WAYS WE CAN RECEIVE HEALING FROM GOD.

Through personal prayer. Is.38v1-22. Jn.14v11-15. 15v4-14. Through church elders praying a prayer of faith for the sick. James.5v13-16. Through any believer who is full of faith and power. Mk.16v18. Acts.9v17,18. Through the apostolic, prophetic, and evangelistic ministries of the Church. 1Cor.12v28. 2Cor.12v12. Rom.15v18-20. Lk.9v1,2. 10v1-9.

A gift of healing can be ministered by the laying on of hands, Mk.6v5,6.; by a touch, Mt.8v13-17. 9v24,25,29,30.; by a word of commanding faith, Mt.8v8. Acts.3v6.; by Christians praying, even a great distance away, Mt.8v5-13. Jn.4v46-54.; by a "prayer cloth", prayed over and sent to the one who is sick, Acts.19v11,12. Mt.14v35,36. 2Kings.13v20.; by an act of obedient faith at Christ's direction, Mk.7v32-37. Lk.17v12-19. Jn.9v1-15. Numb.21v5-9. Each gift of healing is a separate gift, that is, if we pray for ten people and all of them are healed, ten gifts of healings have been ministered.

THE SCRIPTURAL ADVICE FOR THOSE SEEKING HEALING FROM GOD.

a. Ask Christians to pray for you, whose faith and ministry of healing are a proven success and not a proven failure. James.5v13-18. etc.

b. Repent of all known sin and come in sincere repentance to Christ; accept Christ as your Saviour, if you do not know Him as Saviour. Mk.1v15. Acts.3v19. Jn.6v37. Mk.2v5,9,10. 1Jn.3v21-24. 1Cor.11v27-32. Bitterness and enmity against others will hinder healing, so get right with God and man, and come in full assurance of faith for healing of soul and body. Mt.5v22-24. 6v12-15. 18v35. Mk.11v22-26. Lk.7v1-17. Rom.8v32. 1Pet.2v24.

c. Be absolutely positive in your faith in Christ and the Father. Heb.11v5,6. Mk.5v25-34. 6v56. Praise and thank God for His promise to heal you. Don't come to God with doubting hope, come to Him with positive faith in His goodness, and covenants and promises; let your confession of faith be as positive as the Word of God. Mk.9v22,23. 11v20-24. Jn.20v27-29. Rom.4v20. 2Cor.1v19,20.

d. Expect an instant miracle of healing. Mk.1v31,41. 2v12. 5v29,42. 7v35. 10v32. Acts.3v7. 9v32. However, do not limit healing to an instant miracle. Continue to trust Christ for healing, even when healing is not immediate, for sometimes healing is delayed or gradual. Job.42v10. Mk.8v22-26. Lk.17v12-19. Jn.4v52. 9v1-15. Jesus said that real faith never goes unrewarded, so imitate the persistent faith of the men and women who obtained the promises of God in the Scriptures. 2Kings.4v18-37. Mt.5v25-34. 2v1-12. Lk.18v35-43.

Realise that God is trying to make a change in you as well as in your body. There is no record in the Bible of God refusing healing to those who seek it, except for the reasons we have previously detailed under the heading why healings can be delayed; remember a delay in healing does not mean denial.



THE THREE GIFTS OF INSPIRATION AND COMFORT.

7. THE GIFT OF PROPHECY. “Propheteia.”

The gift of prophecy is sixth in the list in Cor.12v8-10., it is the gift that Paul tells us to desire most in public gatherings, because prophecy can greatly edify, encourage and comfort fellow believers. 1Cor.14v1-3. The simple gift of prophecy must not be confused with predictive prophecy. All Christians may prophesy but not all Christians manifest the gifts of revelation. The simple gift of prophecy edifies, exhorts and comforts; whereas, the gifts of revelation, direct, predict and reveal.

Nor should the simple gift of prophecy be confused with the office of a prophet, all Christians may prophesy,1Cor.14v5,24,31., but not all Christians hold a prophetic office and ministry, which is second only to apostolic ministry. 1Cor.12v28. Eph.4v11. The person with the simple gift of prophecy may sometimes manifest gifts of revelation, but that does not give them a prophetic office. The prophetic office is proved by the continual manifestation of the gifts of revelation and power on a high level of authority. Compare the prophetic ministry of Agabus with the prophetic gift of Philip's four daughters. Acts.21v9,10. Prophets can vary a great deal in their authority. Numb.12v6-15.

ALL KINDS OF PROPHECY MUST BE DISTINGUISHED FROM PREACHING AND TEACHING.

The Old Testament distinguishes a preacher, "qoheleth," Eccles.1v1,2,12. 7v27. 12v8,9,10., from a prophet, a "nabi," or seer, a "roeh," or "chozeh." Gen.20v7. Ezra.5v1. Ex.15v20. 2Sam.24v11. 30v10. Ezek.13v9,16. Amos.7v12. The New Testament clearly distinguishes a prophet from a teacher. In the Authorised Version the Greek word "propheteuo," "to prophesy," is never translated as "preach:" nor is "propheteia," that is, "prophecy," ever translated as "preaching;" and "prophetes," "prophet," is never translated as "preacher." The Greek words for preaching are never used in the Authorised Version to speak of a person prophesying. Both prophet and preacher proclaim; the prophet from the impulse and sudden inspiration of the Holy Spirit, the preacher from the operation of the mind upon known truth.

ALL KINDS OF PROPHECY MUST BE PROPERLY REGULATED.

a. We must not surrender our right to judge prophetic utterances. 1Thes.5v19-21. 1Cor.14v29-33.

Important prophetic truth is always confirmed out of the mouths of two or three reliable witnesses. Deut.19v15. 2Cor.13v1. 1Cor.14v29.

b. We must not accept direction by prophecy, or direct others by prophecy.

God may speak through others to confirm guidance that He has already given, or He may use others to warn us in emergency or danger, just as Agabus and the Christians at Tyre warned Paul not to set foot in Jerusalem. Acts.20v20-23. 21v3,4,10,11. However, prophecies which tell us what to do should be regarded with caution and carefully examined, for in the New Testament, personal direction, usually comes direct to the sons of God from their Father. Rom.8v14. Heb.8v10,11.

c. We must not give prophecy precedence over Scripture.

The foundation of our faith is the Scripture. Eph.2v20. 3v5. No one can receive truth that will add to or supersede the New Testament revelation. Rev.22v18,19. Prophecies have to be checked by the Scriptures. 1Jn.4v1-5. We must not give a place to spiritual revelation that can only be given to the Scriptures. A correct balance between God's Word, sanctification, sanctified common sense, and spiritual gifts will preserve us from many heart-breaks and dangers. 1Pet.1v23,35.

d. We must not lose our self-control, propriety, or divine order. 1Cor.14v32,33,40.

The spirit of a Christian prophet is under their control, and is in marked contrast to the deranged and frenzied ravings of the prophets of Baal and other Heathen prophets. 1Kings.18v25-40. James.3v13-18. A prophet should not monopolise prophetic manifestations, see 1Cor.14v30., where Paul directs, "let the first hold his peace." We should also only have as many prophecies as we can judge, weigh, assimilate and remember. 1Cor.14v29,31. All may sometimes prophesy in small meetings, but definitely not in large ones.

When Paul said in 1Cor.14v24,31., that all the believers could prophesy, he was thinking of a comparatively small house meeting, and also of a much longer meeting than a short one hour service. 1Cor.16v19. Col.4v15. Acts.2v2,46. 20v6v12. In a short meeting given to preaching or Bible study, ONE prophecy may be as much as we can thoroughly examine and remember, in a night of prayer we can profitably have many more. We can't restrict all services to three prophecies regardless of their type and length; nor can the number of prophecies depend on how many artificial breaks we make in a service, or day of fellowship. Paul's divinely inspired counsel is by far the best, we should have only as many prophecies as we can judge, weigh, discuss, and profitably assimilate. The maximum for consideration at any one time being three prophecies. 1Cor.14v29. The prophesying of Numb.11v24-29. 1Sam.10v10-13. 19v18-24. and Kings.2v3,5., seems to be the exception rather than the rule, for this mass prophesying seems more for personal edification than for public edification. It is not the Christian norm, but it may occur on rare and special outpourings of the Spirit.

e. We must not despise genuine prophesying. 1Thes.5v19,20.

Paul reminded Timothy of the importance of the prophecies that had been given for his personal comfort and edification. 1Tim.4v14,15. 2Tim.1v6-8. Heb.12v25. The idea that no real notice should be taken of prophetic utterances is quite perilous, and can have the most serious and tragic consequences, as the history of Israel and the seven churches in the book of Revelation clearly demonstrate. 2Chron.36v15-21. Rev.2 and 3. Alas, trembling at the written Word or prophetic word of God is comparatively rare. Is.66v2-5. Ps.2v11. Ezra.9v4. 10v3. Phil.2v12.

f. We must be careful not to misinterpret prophecy.

The apostle John had to correct the false interpretation of Christ's words in Jn.21,22,23. If there is any doubt over the interpretation of prophecies or revelations, it is best to be silent and let the Holy Spirit and time reveal their true import. Let us not jump to hasty conclusions. Prophecies may foretell something that is years ahead, and we should not insist on giving them a present application, they may need new circumstances to come to pass and the passage of time to reveal what they mean.

Even great Old Testament prophets were puzzled by their own prophecies, until God told them that they were for the distant future and not for themselves. 1Pet.1v10-12. 2Pet.1v20,21. Some prophecies are only understood by the person they are for, God veils their meaning from everybody else, He is discreet, wise, and loving; a perfect gentleman, who respects a person's desire for privacy, and so He will meet needs by general and ambiguous prophecy, rather than by specific detailed prophecy, to save people embarrassment. Let us not trespass or pry where God says, "Private, Keep Out."


THE IMPORTANCE AND USE OF PROPHECY.

1. Through Prophecy God edifies, exhorts and comforts His Church. 1Cor.14v3.

In 1Cor.14v3., "edification;" is "oikodome," which means to build up; "exhortation," is "parakleesis;" that is, a calling to one's side, a calling near, an invitation; "comfort," is "paramuthia," to speak near or close to anyone, with soothing and consoling words. This comforting love from our heavenly Father builds up faith, character, love and knowledge; it is full of strengthening comfort, gentleness, inviting mercy and grace. The Holy Spirit comes to speak very kindly to the people of God, to soothe and pacify, by speaking words of gracious persuasion, tender incentive, gentle love, and cheering and healing comfort.

Prophecy from our gracious Lord is not critical or harsh, Christ desires to encourage us, not to discourage us; there may be rebuke sometimes, as in Rev.3v16,17.; but Christ is merciful, loving and kind with His own, even in His disciplines; He even told the Laodiceans of His great love for them. Christ's strengthening comfort corrects as well as consoles, but His gentle humility and tenderness, and inviting mercy and grace are always apparent. Mt.11v28-30. Heb.12v5. The Holy Spirit comes to our side, to help us, not condemn us, let us rejoice in His strengthening comfort and gentleness. 1Cor.14v31. 1Tim.1v18.

2. Prophecy can be a channel of the gifts of revelation.

Prophecy is spoken of as "a light in a dark place", it can prepare us for great blessing or great trouble. 1Pet.1v19. It can also be of great value in winning the lost, when it brings people face to face with God as the secrets of their hearts are revealed. The Lord Jesus used this gift with a word of knowledge in it, in a powerful evangelistic appeal to the woman at the well. Jn.4v15-42. 1v47-51. Paul advocates its use in evangelism in the Corinthian church. 1Cor.14v24,25.

3. Prophecy can be of great value in prayer, praise, worship and song.

The psalms of David abound with prophetic prayer and praise. In 1Cor.14v15. Eph.5v19. and Col.3v16., Paul is obviously thinking of prophetic songs, as well as ordinary songs and hymns. Note the outstanding prophetic prayer and praise of Hannah, Elizabeth, Mary and Zechariah. 1Sam.2v1-10. Lk.1v39-80. Prophecy is indeed a wonderful gift, it is no wonder that Paul has to use the word "zeloute", to describe how intensely we should desire this lovely gift of God. 1Cor.14v39. In the history of God's people, prophecy has made all the difference between victory and defeat, time and time again.



8. THE GIFT OF TONGUES. “Glossais.”

This is spoken of in the New Testament as "new tongues," "other tongues," "divers kinds of tongues," and even as "the tongue of men and angels." Mk.16v17. Acts.2v4. 1Cor.12v10,28. 13v1.

The gift of tongues is certainly not gibberish, or unmeaning ecstatic utterance.

There is no Scriptural, etymological, or exigetical reason for supposing that speaking with tongues is an ecstatic language, or utterance without meaning. The articulate, meaningful, and understandable genuine languages of Acts.2v4., are no different than the tongues of Acts.10v6. 19v6. 1Cor.12v10,28. 13v1,8. 14v2,5,6m13,18,22,23,26,27,39. They are "the like gift," Acts.11v17.; the only difference is, that in Acts.2v4., some of the hearers happened to understand them. On the day of Pentecost the two Greek words that are used to describe "tongues" both indicate a genuine language; "glossai," i.e. "tongues," Acts.2v4,11. and "dialektos," the language or dialect of a district or country." Acts.2v6,8. Those who understood the languages were "beside themselves," "amazed" and "ecstatic," according to the writer of Acts, for the word "existemi" is used to describe their reactions in Acts2v7,12. (10v45) (For "ekstasis," see Acts.3v10. 10v10. 11v5. 22v17. Mk.5v42. 16v8. Lk.5v26.) The reason for this amazement, was that they heard Galileans, speaking fluently and powerfully of God's wonderful works, in their own local dialects, as only a native could, and they knew that this was, naturally speaking, quite impossible.

It was only the ignorant critics, who did not know or understand the languages, who said that speaking in tongues was drunken gibberish; those who did know the languages, said that they were perfect and inspiring languages and were converted as a result. The Christians who speak in tongues, experience transports of joy and praise, which to the unbelieving outsider may look like "drunken gibberish." However, Paul tells us, it is not nonsense, but the intelligent speaking of God's divine "musteria," that is, His glorious works, secrets, and purposes, being magnified in genuine articulate language. Acts.14v2.

Those who compare the gift of tongues with the incoherent, unmeaning, broken ramblings of some wild, false religions, and censure and malign God's gift of tongues, should remember there is no more serious sin than ascribing the works of the Holy Spirit to Satan. The gift of tongues is an edifying gift, 1Cor.4v4., and is so divinely inspired that in Acts.2v4. the Greek word, "apophtheggesthai," (pronounced "apophthengesthai") is used to convey the fluency and forcefulness of the "utterance" of tongues under the Holy Spirit's influence; it is not used in the Septuagint of ordinary conversation, it is used for prophetic discourse. This word well conveys the impression of earnest, exalted, weighty, solemn, passionate utterance and divinely inspired discourse. Desire this beautiful gift of tongues, and forbid not to speak with tongues. 1Cor.14v1,39.

2. Paul recommended and made extensive use of the gift of tongues. 1Cor.14v18.

The apostle Paul certainly did not despise or belittle the gift of tongues, he condemned the selfish and noisy user of the gift of tongues. In 1Cor.13., Paul does not say that the gifts are "nothing" without love, for they are given by the God of love, and are wonderful, it is the loveless possessor that is "nothing." Indeed, the gift of tongues is a companion of love, not an opponent of love, it is given for the express purpose of producing love and faith in us. 1Cor.14v2,4. This is why Paul used it more diligently than the Corinthians, who mistakenly used this gift, which is given primarily for private prayer, in a noisy, selfish and prolonged manner in their Christian gatherings.

Paul told the Corinthians that "in the Church" five words of prophecy are better for building up the listening Christians than 10,000 words in a tongue. Paul used the gift of tongues diligently in private prayer, and quietly "to himself and God" in public praise and prayer. Paul tells us from his own experience that the gift of tongues will build love, faith and spiritual strength in the possessor of the gift ,when it is used diligently and devotionally. 1Cor.14v2,4,15-18. Why do some Christians belittle or despise the gift of tongues? Some are genuinely ignorant of the great blessing that this gift can bring. Some have a fear of the supernatural and cannot trust God to give them "good gifts" and preserve them from evil. Lk.11v13. Mt.7v7-11. Heb.3 and 4. Others love the praise of men more than the praise of God, and count the cost of losing anti-Pentecostal friends and so they reject God's lovely gift of tongues. Jn.12v12,43. 5v44. Some Christians, sad to say, have been put off by noisy, Corinthian-type Pentecostals. We should, however, judge the value of this gift from the Scriptures, and from the experience of Paul, the other apostles, and mature Christians, not from the experience of Corinthian type Christian babes.

3. We must not confuse devotional tongues with tongues given for a ministry to others.

It is a fact of experience that only a small percentage of Christians who speak in devotional tongues, speak out in a tongue that is interpreted in the church. It is this ministry that Paul is speaking about in 1Cor.12v30., when he asks, "Do all speak with tongues?" There are Christians who have been given outstanding ministries of speaking with tongues; their utterances are of such great beauty and carry such a divine benediction, that one feels that they are upon holy ground, even before there is an interpretation. In 1Cor.12v27-31. Paul is speaking of ministries that God has set in the Church, to build up the Church, Christians with a God-given gift for public ministry, and the ministry of interpretation of tongues is amongst them. Paul's desire, "I would that ye ALL spake with tongues," was an experimental fact amongst the Christians in the upper room, and among the believers in the house of Cornelius, and the disciples at Ephesus, for they ALL spoke with tongues. However, the majority of these tongues were for prayer and praise and not for interpretation. Acts.2v4. 10v44-48. 19v6. 1Cor.14v5,30. This ministry of tongues for interpretation demands a deep prayer life to be effective, uplifting and powerful.

4. The gift of tongues was not given for preaching the Gospel.

Though God intends the gift of tongues to be predominantly a devotional aid to the prayer life, speaking with tongues is a mighty sign to people when they understand the language. God does not intend the gift of tongues to replace the preaching of the Gospel, He uses it as a sign to gain the attention of the people and prepare them for the preaching of the Gospel, as on the day of Pentecost, when the tongues prepared people for the preaching of Peter. The colloquial Greek "koine" was understood throughout most of the Roman Empire, and was the common language of the nations around the Mediterranean, and so the gift of tongues was not needed to preach the Gospel to people in their own language. Many modern instances of Christians speaking in known languages have been recorded by reliable witnesses, the theme of the languages have been the same as in Acts.2v11., "the wonderful works of God."

5. The limitations placed upon the use of the gift of tongues.

The aim in church fellowships should be public and not personal edification, therefore, we should curtail noisy or excessive speaking in tongues and seek God for a prophecy. 1Cor.14v5,18,19. Though the whole church may on occasions burst out in praise and worship and sing and speak in tongues; in a church meeting, speaking with tongues should generally be quietly spoken between ourselves and God. 1Cor.14v28. Paul instructs us that when the unconverted or unlearned in spiritual gifts come into a Pentecostal meeting, the Pentecostal believers must act wisely and restrain themselves from any loud and concerted outbursts in tongues, otherwise the visitors will say that everybody is mad. Paul informs us in 1Cor.14v23-25., that prophecy is far the best gift to manifest under such circumstances. Paul desired the Corinthians to have a correct and sensible balance and to seek after gifts with a greater public ministry in their church meetings.

Though Paul said that we must not forbid speaking in tongues, he also said that tongues that are for interpretation should be limited to three utterances. If there is no interpreter in the church, there must be no public utterances, the person must speak quietly to themselves and to God. 1Cor.14v27,28,39. It also seems from 1Cor.14v26., "everyone hath a tongue," that one person should give only one tongue, as in v29, Paul suggests that each prophet should only give one prophecy, so that the ministry of the gifts can be shared around. Further prophetic input can come in the process of judging and considering other people's prophecies. We should share the ministry of spiritual gifts. A selfish person loves to dominate and monopolise Christian meetings, love delights to share and give place to others.


THE VALUE AND USE OF THE GIFT OF TONGUES.

a. It is a divine aid to the prayer-life of the Christian.

By the simple act of speaking with tongues we are enabled by the Holy Spirit to pray and worship on the very highest level. Speaking with tongues enables us to have direct and close communion with God; it brings into play the highest faculty of the Christian, the born again spirit that God has given to each redeemed child of God. This is truly acceptable worship and prayer in spirit and truth. Jn.4v23,24. Rom.8v26,27. 1Cor.14v14-16. Acts.10v46. Mt.22v35-40. The gift of tongues enables us to exalt, worship and praise God, in a way that we cannot without it. The Holy Spirit Himself gives us the vocabulary and blessing to fully express the needs, feelings and desires of the soul and spirit; He frees us from the limits of human speech and knowledge, and enables us to pray and worship on the very highest level.

Paul states in 1Cor.14v15., that the balanced prayer life consists of prayer and singing in tongues, as well as prayer and singing in one's own language. The gift of tongues enables the Christian to pray on a new level, for it is God praying through us to perform things "infinitely beyond all our highest prayers, hopes, thoughts and dreams." Eph.3v18-20. Rom.8v26,27.

b. It is a divine aid to transform the character and personality.

Paul said that this gift is given to produce and build faith and love in the soul, to "edify," bless and transform the personality, character and life of the believer. 1Cor.14v4,18. It has the same edifying effect in the life of the believer as prophecy has in the church. It can relax and refresh the tired body as well as the soul. Is.28v11,12. with 1Cor.14v21. Rom.8v11.

c. It is a divine aid to deepen our ministries and spiritual effectiveness.

Those who diligently use the gift of tongues in the secret place can testify that it brings them very close to Jesus and our heavenly Father, and in deepening our love for them, brings a greater appreciation of spiritual things and a greater spiritual effectiveness. Loving Jesus and abiding in Him, is the only true source of a genuine fruitfulness, Jn.15v4-17.; the gift of tongues is given as a divine aid to abiding in Christ, and is of great value. Prayer and praise in tongues edifies the spirit and gives a spiritual insight into the Scriptures which is often not found in the best commentaries. Indeed, it is only the tongue-speaking "charismata" manifesting Christian, who can really understand much of the experience of the early Church. Prayer and praise in tongues builds up the spiritual life of the Christian to the place where they are able to manifest the other gifts of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit's ministrations through this gift in the secret place will result in a blessing upon our public ministry and greatly increase our effectiveness for God. Mt.5v6. with 1Cor.14v2,4,18. and 2Cor.12v12.

Speaking in tongues is certainly not "infant prattling," it can deepen the effectiveness of even a mature Christian's ministry. Paul could hardly be called "an infant prattler;" in 1Cor.14v18., he had been a remarkable Christian for over 20 years. Through this precious gift, the Holy Spirit deepens our ministries, makes the soul strong, and attacks the hosts of evil spirits that dominate this present evil world.

d. It is a divine means of edifying the church when it is interpreted.

A powerful, love-laden tongue can greatly bless the church even before it is interpreted, and if the interpretation carries the same benediction, it can bring a veritable shower of blessing, in the form of comfort, solace, instruction, and edifying truth. 1Cor.14v5,27,28.

e. It is a divine sign to people when the language is understood.

When understood, the gift of tongues can convict and convert the sinner, and be a great encouragement to the believer. 1Cor.14v22. Acts.2v4-12. Mk.16v17-20. Though this is not the normal use of the gift, for the gift of tongues is predominantly devotional, it can produce remarkable results when God manifests this gift as a sign as He did on the day of Pentecost, when 3,000 people became Christians. Acts2v41. Many modern cases of this gift as a sign have occurred.

f. It is the divinely chosen evidence of the baptism in the Holy Spirit.

At the outpourings of the Holy Spirit mentioned in Acts.2v4. 10v45,46. and 19v6.; when Christians received the baptism in the Spirit, they all received the same initial evidence of the baptism in the Spirit, they all spoke with tongues. The Holy Spirit did not give different spiritual gifts as the evidence of the baptism, He gave the gift of tongues to all. With the exception of the outpouring at Ephesus, we do not read of any other manifestations of the gifts, and they prophesied as well as spoke with tongues. Nor is the fruit of the Spirit the initial evidence of the baptism of the Spirit; the fruits of the Spirit, such as love, joy, peace, faith, etc.; are very important, but they take time to grow; so the Holy Spirit gave the prayer-gift of tongues. If the fruit of the Spirit was made the evidence of the baptism in the Spirit, no one would be sure that they had received it, it would have resulted in endless argument, unhealthy introspection, and complete uncertainty; God made the easily discernible gift of tongues the evidence of the baptism in the Spirit.

HERE I WANT TO GIVE A VERY NECESSARY WARNING.

Remember, that though the gift of tongues is a wonderful and lovely gift from God; when you are seeking the baptism in the Spirit, you are seeking an encounter with Jesus, not just seeking tongues. The gift of tongues is the outflow of an encounter with the baptising Lord, it is the effect of the baptism in the Spirit, not the cause. In the New Testament the supernatural filling of the Holy Spirit, preceded the supernatural speaking with tongues. Acts.2v4. We should not try to get Christians to speak with tongues at any cost, so that they can be told, "You have received your baptism." Our whole emphasis should be on an encounter with Christ. The baptism in the Spirit does not come through physical or soulish techniques; it comes through living union with Christ. If there is an absence of soul-searching, consecration, thirsting after God, and soul-communion with Christ; Christians may well have an experience of the baptism in the Spirit, that does not reach or satisfy the deep yearnings of the inner depths of the soul, even though they may have spoken with tongues. This will give added power to Satan's inevitable faith-destroying attack on their experience. Mt.4v1-12. We should not be satisfied until Christians have received a deep, rich and satisfying baptism in the Spirit, that brings an overwhelming experience of the nearness and preciousness of our dear Lord Jesus and our heavenly Father.

The tongue, and the speech centres that dominate the brain, are the most rebellious and uncontrollable parts of the human body and personality, James.3v2-12., when a Christian speak in tongues, it is a sure proof that the whole personality has been immersed in the Holy Spirit. Acts.2v4. Since Spirit-filled Christians manifest spiritual gifts and face spiritual foes, they need to be able to spiritually edify themselves; this is the prime purpose of the gift of tongues. Let us recognise the value and importance of what God has given. How dare Christians criticise God's gifts, question and deride His wisdom, and refuse to obey His command to earnestly seek spiritual gifts as well as to pursue love? 1Cor.14v1. The gift of tongues is one of God's gifts, let us realise its great value and seek to use it as He intended.


9. THE INTERPRETATION OF TONGUES. “Hermeneia glosson.”

This gift is the supernatural ability given by the Holy Spirit to interpret an utterance with tongues. 1Cor.12v10. 14v5,13,27,28. It has its place among the ministries of the Church, and fulfils a similar function to the simple gift of prophecy. 1Cor.12v28. 14v5. The interpretation of tongues can take the form of a prayer for heavenly help, a prayer of dedication, a statement of faith and assurance, an expression of praise and worship, a sacred song or hymn, as well as words of edification, exhortation and tender comfort. Interpreted tongue may be addressed to God, as are the devotional tongues of 1Cor.14v2., however, like prophecy, it can also be addressed to man. 1Cor.14v3. Sometimes the "interpretation" can be the answer to the prayer, praise, and statement of faith, etc., that has been spoken out in tongues, and on these occasions it would perhaps be more accurate to call it a prophecy than an interpretation. However, we do not have to be too technical in our definitions, it is a powerful manifestation of the gifts that is of first importance.

The Greek word translated as "interpret" in 1Cor.12v30. 14v5,23,27., is "diermeneuo," which gives a much wider meaning than "translate;" it is used to speak of Christ explaining and fully expounding the Old Testament Scriptures in Lk.24v27. and Acts.9v36.. The Holy Spirit, can then, gives great variety in the manifestation of an interpretation; the interpretation may come in the form of a prophetic type utterance, or as a description of a pictorial vision, or as a conversational description of the facts the Holy Spirit has revealed, and sometimes as a heavy burden upon the heart and spirit. It can be received before, during, or after the utterance in tongues. A genuine interpretation of tongues is recognisable by the heavenly unction which rests both upon the interpreter and the listeners, any interpretation that lacks this anointing, lacks God's authority. 2Pet.1v21. This ministry should be shared, it is very wrong for one person to monopolise this ministry, this kind of selfish determination leads to false interpretation. The interpretation may be longer or shorter than the tongue due to the Holy Spirit's vocabulary, because the interpretation has an additional prophecy, or because of a partial interpretation. Sometimes through ignorance, wrong teaching, or a wilful determination to give an interpretation which one does not possess, a false interpretation can be given. Spiritual Christians can easily discern extempore preaching paraded as interpretation of tongues, from true interpretation of tongues; true interpretation carries the power and blessing of God and greatly edifies the local church.


SOME SEARCHING QUESTIONS.

Are we satisfied with purely human ability and guidance in our services? Who controls and directs our services, God or ourselves? Is the Holy Spirit forced to be almost an idle bystander in our churches, through our determination to keep to our programmes? Is Christ's ministry being carried on in our churches by the ministry of the Holy Spirit and the full manifestation of all His gifts? Are we obeying the Word of God through Paul, and earnestly desiring our heavenly Father's gracious and lovely spiritual gifts? Failure to obey this command leaves the body of Christ spiritually leprous and paralysed, emaciated and powerless. Enter into the full inheritance that has been purchased for you with the precious blood of Christ, for your spiritual profit. 1Cor.12v7. 1Pet.1v18,19.

THE BAPTISM IN THE SPIRIT AND SPIRITUAL GIFTS.

The Holy Spirit desires the baptism in the Spirit to be the gateway to the regular manifestation of His gifts; He desires to make us the channels of Christ's life, love, knowledge and power. Even our Lord Jesus, who was "full of grace and truth", did no public signs or miracles until He was empowered by the Holy Spirit at Jordan. Jn.1v14. 2v11. 3v34,35. 5v19,20. Lk.3v21,22. 4v1,14-23. How can we succeed and fulfil the Father's perfect will and meet the needs of fallen and suffering mankind, if we lack the spiritual equipment that the Father deemed essential for the success of the ministry of Jesus and the early Church?

Some believe that we receive the baptism in the Holy Spirit at conversion, however, this can be shown to be incorrect by many passages of Scripture. The apostles were converted before Pentecost; their names, like those of the seventy, were, "written in heaven," Lk.10v20.; they were "clean," Jn.15v2,3.; they were not of the world and belonged to God, Jn.17v6,9-16,23.; they had received Christ and were believers in Him, and so they were born-again children of God, and Christ owned them as His friends and brethren. Jn.1v12. 3v1-21. 15v15. 17v8. Mt.12v48-50. At Pentecost these born-again believers received the baptism in the Spirit that had been promised them. The Samaritans accepted Philip's sign-attested ministry and many became joyful baptised believers in Jesus; it was many days later, when Peter and John came to Samaria to lay hands on these born-again, water baptised converts, that they received the baptism in the Spirit. Acts.8v5-19. The Samaritans were full of faith and joy, but they were not baptised in the Spirit until Peter and John prayed for them.

Paul became a Christian when he met the Lord Jesus on the Damascus road, he owned Christ as Lord, he said, "Lord, what will thou have me to do?" Ananias was able to call him "Brother Saul," and was sent that Paul might receive his sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit, this was three days after Paul's conversion and new birth in Christ. Acts.9v6,9,17. The baptism in the Spirit of the disciples at Ephesus, also occurred some time after the conversion and their baptism in water, when the apostle Paul laid hands on them, a point that Paul reminds the Ephesians of in Eph.1v13., "after that ye had believed (again the aorist participle, "pisteusantes," as in Acts.19v2.) ye were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise." The outpouring of the Holy Spirit at the house of Cornelius demonstrates the fact that Christians can receive the baptism in the Spirit a few seconds or minutes after believing in Christ as Saviour, and without having previously been baptised in water, and without having the ministry of laying on of hands. Acts.10v34-48.


God desires to give the baptism in the Spirit to all believers. Acts.2v39. Lk.11v13. So:

1. Don't be anxious, trust God's Word to you, rest in His great love for you. Heb.11v6. Jn.16v12-15,26,27.

2.Determine to obey God and walk humbly before Him. Acts.5v32. Mt.5v3. Micah.6v8.

3. Combine prayer with a joyful praising heart and praising lips. Lk.11v9-13. Jn.7v35. Ps.95v1-7. Heb.13v15. Ps.107v8,21. Lk.24v52,53.

4. Seek God with other earnest loving Christians, and place yourself under mature spiritual oversight.Acts.1v14. Eph.4v7-16. 1Cor.12v28. Heb.10v24,25. Don't be content with men's minimum, earnestly seek God's maximum.

God's spiritual gifts reveal the awesome majesty and justice of God, as well as His amazing grace and mercy.


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