What is tongues and interpretation of tongues?
The teaching contained in 1 Corinthians 12-14 on the subject of tongues would make little sense if the distinction between tongues the Spiritual Gift, and tongues the prayer language, were not understood. Tongues the Spiritual Gift, is the only one of the nine Gifts of the Spirit that is inseparably paired with another Spiritual Gift, that of Interpretation. All nine Gifts of the Spirit are expressly given to build up the church. On the other hand, tongues, the prayer language is for personal edification. It is, therefore, not one of the nine Gifts of the Spirit. 1 Corinthians 14:2-4 (NIV) For anyone who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God. Indeed, no one understands him; he utters mysteries with his spirit. {3} But everyone who prophesies speaks to men for their strengthening, encouragement and comfort. {4} He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church. But the Spiritual Gift of Tongues with Interpretation serves to build up the ch
