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Gift of Interpreting Tounges

Definition:

A supernatural ability the Holy Spirit gives to certain people to interpret words that have been spoken as special revelation from God but are not understood by the listener(s). This gift serves as an important communication link between God and His Church.

Biblical References:

• 1 Corinthians 12:10
• 1 Corinthians 14:5, 27&28

Gift Characteristics:

Required when tongues are spoken publicly but not understood.... The gift of interpreting tongues is always used to compliment the gift of tongues. When the gift of tongues is given as public revelation from God, the message has no value to the hearer unless it is understood. That is why its translation is essential. This gift is not demonstrated in messages that can be understood by the listener(s), or when tongues are spoken as personal communication with God (1 Corinthians 12:10;14:2,18&19).

Benefits the Church in the same manner as prophecy.... Paul states that tongues, with interpretation, is equivalent to prophecy in terms of edifying the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 14:5). However, this does not mean that tongues with interpretation is the same as prophecy. Many Scriptural references related to speaking in tongues centers around the act of praising or communicating with God. In 1 Corinthians 14:6 Paul indicates other uses of this gift are also possible.

Follows the same rules as prophecy.... Because interpreting a tongue represents divine revelation, it must be spoken in an orderly manner so that it can be judged. Paul suggests that all messages in tongues be given no more than two or three at a time, and that each message be interpreted for the edification of the body. If there is no one in the church who can interpret, then the gift of tongues should not be exercised (1 Corinthians 14:27-29).

May be given by the person speaking in tongues or by someone else.... Those who speak a message in tongues are admonished to pray for the ability to interpret it (1 Corinthians 14:13). However, if they do not receive its meaning from the Lord, then the church should wait for someone else to come forward with an interpretation before moving on.

Does not have to exhibit the same attributes as the message in tongues.... The interpretation of a tongue may or may not be the same length of time, have the same tone, or display the same characteristics as the tongue it is translating. This is because both the gift of tongues and the gift of interpretation are manifestations of the Holy Spirit being demonstrated through people. Individuals can express personal revelation in differing and unique ways (1 Corinthians 12:6).