1 Corinthians 12:10, “…to still another the interpretation of tongues.”
The last spiritual gift that Paul lists is the “gift of interpretation of tongues.” The gift of interpretation of tongues is, “a supernatural ability to interpret a message given in tongues.” Paul taught that whenever a message in tongues is given publicly to the congregation it should be interpreted for all to benefit from. In other words, the message in tongues that is spiritually interpreted is equivalent to prophecy, 1 Cor. 14:5.
The Bible teaches that there should be order when the inspiration gifts (tongues and prophecy) are in operation. Here are some of the guidelines that are to be used to insure peace in the local church gathering. First, there should only be two to three spiritual messages given in a service, 1 Cor. 14:27. Second, the leaders of the church should approve the words given, 1 Cor. 14:29.
Lastly, the one being used in the spiritual gifts always has the ability to be in control of their actions and compliant with the church’s order. If the person acts disruptive while operating in the gifts and says, “The Spirit is making me act this way and I can not stop it” they are either influenced by an evil spirit or their own spirit, 1 Cor. 14:32.
The Lord will never give a person a message in tongues without there also being present someone given the gift to interpret it. If no one interprets the message given, the one who was given the message ought to pray and ask for the gift of interpretation to insure the message is given to God’s people.
Like with the revelation gifts- message of wisdom, knowledge, and discerning of spirits; the inspiration gifts- the message of tongues and prophecy will never contradict Scripture or lead to un-Christ like behavior. Therefore, the end result of both the revelatory and inspiration gifts should always be the fruit of the Spirit, Galatians 5:22-23.
Reflection
Action
- Have you ever had the gift of interpretation of tongues? If yes, what was the experience like and the word given?
- Ask God to give you the gift of interpretation of tongues.
- Whenever you hear a message in tongues ask God for the prophetic meaning!
