Wednesday — August 5: The Gift of Tongues
Read Bible
- Mark 16:17
- Acts 2:1–13
- Acts 10:44–48
- Acts 19:6
- 1 Corinthians 12:8–10, 28, 30
- 1 Corinthians 14:5–6, 9, 13, 23, 26–28, 33, 40
Summary
- The gift of tongues is a genuine gift from the Holy Spirit that enables believers to speak foreign languages.
- Paul did not correct the gift itself because it was given by God for His work.
- Paul corrected the misuse of the gift because it was causing confusion during public worship.
- God wants every message shared in the church to be understood so that everyone can learn and grow.
- Paul taught that the gift of tongues should be accompanied by interpretation so the whole church can benefit.
- The Corinthians gave too much attention to the gift of tongues and neglected other gifts that also strengthened the church.
- The Holy Spirit gives different gifts to different believers, so not every Christian receives the gift of tongues.
- Speaking in tongues is not the evidence that a person has received the Holy Spirit.
- God gives every spiritual gift to strengthen the church and help more people come to Christ.
Question
- Why did Paul give instructions about the gift of tongues?
Answer
- Paul wanted the gift of tongues to be used in a way that people could understand God’s message so the church would be strengthened instead of confused.
Reflection
- Am I using the gifts God has given me to help others understand His Word and grow in their faith?
Takeaway
- Use every spiritual gift in a way that builds up the church and brings glory to God.
Read our Understanding 1 Corinthians 14:1 Memory Text study to learn why love and edification should guide the use of every spiritual gift.
Explore the Lesson 6 Overview to discover how God gives different spiritual gifts to unite believers and strengthen His church.
Browse more Adult Sabbath School Bible Study Guide (ABSG Q3 2026) resources for daily lesson summaries, memory text studies, and weekly Bible study notes.
Visit our Swahili Sabbath School Lessons for Kiswahili translations of the weekly lesson.
Explore our French Sabbath School Lessons for French translations of the Adult Sabbath School Bible Study Guide.