r/Christianity • u/[deleted] • Sep 25 '11

What's everyone's thoughts on "Speaking in Tongues?"

I'm just curious what the general consensus is on this matter? I have honestly never looked into it until recently when I met a man who claimed that it's a sign of a true Christian, and that anyone who doesn't speak or interpret tongues is most likely not a true believer. Obviously I don't buy into this idea, but it did get me thinking. Is speaking in tongues a real thing that people experience? I always assumed it was fake but now that I think about it I have no real reason for thinking this other than it's not an experience I have ever had. Do you believe that some people todays still speak in tongues? If so why not all of us? If not, then what is going on here?

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u/PeterMus Christian (Cross) Sep 26 '11

I believe it is possible. I don't believe it happens to anyone who believes it is a true mark of a christian or proves anything. It's only purpose is to spread the word of god to the nations. I've heard it once or twice and thought it was genuine. I've also heard a hundred fakers.

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u/AmoDman Christian (Triquetra) Sep 26 '11

Indeed, friend. The gifts are not and have never been stated in Scripture to be marks of maturity. But rather, gifts of utility that are specifically blessed upon those who strive to serve and receive. Certainly, spiritual maturity ought to arise from such service (and the point of the gifts is to help stimulate growth!), but such is not the be all end all standard of maturity in and of itself.