In this message, we examine the biblical gift of tongues through 1 Corinthians 14, Acts 2, and Isaiah 28. Scripture presents tongues as real human languages and as a sign connected to God’s warning and judgment toward unbelieving Israel.

We consider why tongues appeared in key transitional moments in Acts, what Paul meant when he said that tongues “are for a sign,” and why the completed Word of God—not the pursuit of signs—is the believer’s sure foundation today.

God has not changed. The gospel still saves, the Spirit still indwells, and the Lord still answers prayer. But our confidence rests in the finished work of Christ and the finished Word of God. May we be a church that is anchored, grounded, and confident in the truth God has given.

In this episode, we begin a study of the contextual flow of First Corinthians and Paul’s teaching on spiritual gifts. Before correcting confusion about gifts, Paul first rescues the Corinthians from ignorance by reminding them of their former life in idolatry and directing them to the truth revealed by the Holy Spirit.

Spiritual gifts are not random, nor are they given apart from God’s purpose. In 1 Corinthians 12:1–3, Paul contrasts the emptiness of dumb idols with the direct knowledge that comes from the Spirit of God. True spiritual understanding begins with the confession that Jesus is Lord.

As we study this passage, we are reminded that God’s Spirit always testifies of Christ, leads believers into truth, and gives understanding through the Word of God.

In this episode, we continue our study of spiritual gifts in 1 Corinthians 12 by refocusing on their source and purpose. Though gifts, ministries, and workings may differ, they all come from the same Spirit, serve under the same Lord, and are empowered by the same God.

Paul reminds the church that spiritual gifts are given “to profit withal”—not for personal attention, spiritual competition, or the praise of men, but for the good and unity of the body of Christ. The same Spirit who distributes gifts also bears witness that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and joins every believer into one body.

We also consider the difference between genuine service and religious pretense. God sees the heart, and Christ warns against doing spiritual things merely to be seen of men. May we use every ability and opportunity God gives us with a heart of love, humility, and a desire to make much of Jesus Christ.