Baptists, Presbyterians, Anglicans, Methodists, Lutherans, and other traditional Christian denominations have unique traditions, doctrines, interpretations, and practices that do not align with God’s Will.
These and many others share a common flaw that leads to their collective condemnation before God: the violation of 1 Corinthians 14:39–40.
This Scripture states, “Therefore, brethren, desire earnestly to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking with tongues. Let all things be done decently and in order.” Despite the explicit instruction, numerous denominations prohibit or neglect the emphasis on speaking in tongues. Believers cannot develop spiritually and fully connect with God due to this missing link. (tongues or praying in the Spirit).
The Biblical Imperative for Speaking in Tongues
Speaking in tongues, known as glossolalia, is firmly rooted in the New Testament.
The day of Pentecost is a foundational event where the Apostles received the Holy Spirit and spoke in tongues (Acts 2:1–4), marking the church’s birth and the believers’ empowerment.
Paul further elaborates on this spiritual gift in his letters to the Corinthians, highlighting its importance for personal improvement and direct communication with God (1 Corinthians 14:2, 4, 14–15).
Violating God’s Command: A Common Denominational Sin
Despite being endorsed in Scripture, numerous denominations have chosen to distance themselves from the practice of speaking in tongues. There are multiple reasons why this rejection can be considered a major mistake:
Disobedience to Scriptural Command: By forbidding or neglecting to speak in tongues, denominations disobey the explicit instruction in 1 Corinthians 14:39–40. This disobedience represents a form of rebellion against God’s explicit directive.
Impediment to Spiritual Growth: Speaking in tongues is described as a means of personal edification and a way to pray in the Spirit. Denominations that discourage this practice prevent their members from fully accessing a deeper, more intimate relationship with God.
Lukewarm Faith: The absence of speaking in tongues can lead to a lukewarm faith, condemned in Revelation 3:16. A faith that lacks the zeal and intimacy of direct spiritual communication is incomplete and less vibrant.
The Role of Satan in Denominational Rebellion
Satan’s primary objective is to lead believers away from God. By influencing denominations to forbid or minimize the practice of speaking in tongues, he creates a barrier between believers and a deeper connection with God. This tactic aligns with his role as the author of chaos, rebellion, and confusion.
A Kingdom Divided
Jesus stated in Mark 3:24 that “a kingdom divided against itself cannot stand.” If Christ is the actual head of the church, any opposition to His directives suggests an allegiance to another head—Satan. By rejecting the practice of speaking in tongues, denominations are unwittingly aligning themselves with Satan’s agenda, fostering division and confusion within the body of Christ.
The Importance of Praying in the Spirit
Praying in the Spirit, or speaking in tongues, is not just a spiritual exercise but a crucial aspect of knowing and communing with God. Jesus emphasized in John 4:24 that “God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” Speaking in tongues signifies a believer’s direct communication with God, facilitated by the Holy Spirit. Through this practice, true worshippers can experience an intimate relationship with God.
Spiritual Edification and Communion
Paul describes speaking in tongues as a means of personal edification (1 Corinthians 14:4). It allows believers to pray in a language that transcends human understanding, directly communing with God’s Spirit. This form of prayer builds up the believer’s Spirit, aligning them more closely with God’s will and purpose.
Denominational Repentance: A Call to Return to Scriptural Obedience
Denominations must undergo substantial changes to align with God’s will by taking appropriate action to implement scriptural changes that reflect and align with His plan:
Theological Re-Evaluation: Denominations must re-examine their theological positions on the gifts of the Spirit. This re-evaluation should be grounded in a thorough study of Scripture, acknowledging the ongoing relevance of speaking in tongues.
Education and Training: Church leaders should educate their congregations about the biblical basis and benefits of speaking in tongues. This education should include practical training on practicing this gift in private devotion, ensuring believers can access this form of spiritual communication.
Encouragement and Support: Churches should maintain an atmosphere of decorum and order as they practice all spiritual gifts, including tongues, according to Paul’s instructions. It may be necessary to schedule specific periods for group prayer and teaching on spiritual talents.
Conclusion
The failure of traditional denominations to embrace and encourage speaking in tongues represents a significant sin against God and His Word. By neglecting this practice, denominations hinder their members’ spiritual growth and foster a lukewarm faith. This rebellion against God’s directive suggests an alignment with Satan’s influence, creating division and confusion within the body of Christ.
The traditional denominations must repent and fully embrace all spiritual gifts, including speaking in tongues.
By doing so, they can ensure that they are following Christ, the actual head of the church, and not succumbing to the deceptive influence of Satan. Aligning with Scripture allows believers to experience God’s presence and power in their lives, fulfilling the call to “let all things be done decently and in order.” This return to scriptural obedience will help create a more vibrant, intimate, and spiritually powerful Christian community.