Read I Corinthians 14:1-25

Dear Neighbor,

Our heavenly Father has established and built up a church, the body of Christ.  He did this by his holy word.  When we read our bibles Jesus is clearly made known to all.  You are then commanded to continue in this by sharing the good news of Jesus Christ.  

Yes, there are many spiritual gifts that come with receiving the Holy Spirit, one of which is tongues.  Many speak in tongues and many forget that you are commanded to only speak in tongues publicly when an individual with the gift of interpretation is present, otherwise the message goes unknown and is perceived only as ramblings.  If there is no one with the gift of interpretation present, instead speak clearly and save the tongues for your private time of prayer.

You’re not going to share the good news of Jesus to an unbelieving person whilst speaking in tongues.  They will not understand anything you say and will be left with a bad impression.  If the whole point is for us to build up one another and share in the gospel, than our words will need to be clear and lovingly spoken.

How can I teach this to my children: Inform your child that you’re going to retell one of their favorite stories, or one they know by heart.  For example, do you remember the story of the three little pigs?  Let me tell you again…then proceed to talk in gibberish the entire time.  You may get laughs and giggles, looks of confusion or even fear.  Then ask, how’d you like the story?  Your child may think you’ve gone crazy, or respond with outrage that you didn’t tell the story at all.  Then explain how you were showing when we decide to share a bible story with someone we should make sure we are sharing it in a way that is clearly understood to all.  When we speak in tongues carelessly-without interpretation present- it doesn’t build anyone up, it only creates confusion.

With love,

Millie Baxter

P.S. Share the good news!

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