Gateway Christian Fellowship | Pastor John Stratton

TEXT: Acts 2:1-4 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. 3 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

INTRO: The Word Pentecost is the English version of the name of a holy day of the Hebrew calendar. In Leviticus 23, God speaks through Moses of one of the days He commands the nation of Israel to observe annually as religious celebrations. Lev 23:10-11 Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, When ye be come into the land which I give unto you, and shall reap the harvest thereof, then ye shall bring a sheaf of the firstfruits of your harvest unto the priest: 11 And he shall wave the sheaf before the Lord, to be accepted for you: on the morrow after the sabbath the priest shall wave it.

This was traditionally done during the Days of Unleavened Bread, a week-long festival connected to the Passover. Many Biblical commentators believe this ceremony to be a foreshadow of the resurrection of Jesus. It occurred on the "day after the Sabbath," that is, the Sunday after Passover: Lev 23:15-17 And ye shall count unto you from the morrow after the sabbath, from the day that ye brought the sheaf of the wave offering; seven sabbaths shall be complete: 16 Even unto the morrow after the seventh sabbath shall ye number fifty days; and ye shall offer a new meat offering unto the Lord. 17 Ye shall bring out of your habitations two wave loaves of two tenth deals: they shall be of fine flour; they shall be baken with leaven; they are the firstfruits unto the Lord. Lev 23:21 And ye shall proclaim on the selfsame day, that it may be an holy convocation unto you: ye shall do no servile work therein: it shall be a statute for ever in all your dwellings throughout your generations.

Note that this annual observance is to occur on the fiftieth day after the sheaf was waved during the Days of Unleavened Bread. And by the time of Jesus' ministry on earth, the Greek name for this feast was called or commonly known as Pentecost, which means in Greek fiftieth . English has borrowed this same word to designate this particular religious observance because of what happened on this particular Pentecost!

After His resurrection, Jesus appeared a number of times to His disciples over a period of forty days, and then was taken up to heaven. But just before that event, the following is recorded: Acts 1:1-8 The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach, 2 Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen: 3 To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God: 4 And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. 5 For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. 6 When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? 7 And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. 8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

As We Selected our Text here is what took place in Acts 2: In Jerusalem fifty days after the resurrection, on the annual biblical Holy Day of Pentecost, to the Apostles and disciples of Jesus.

Note: That these were all Jewish men and women, and that they would thus be observing the annual day of Pentecost as they had throughout their whole lives. Also note in the passage below that there were "God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven" in Jerusalem because all Jews who were able to, made the pilgrimage to Jerusalem each year to worship on this day (as well as the other annual biblical holy days.

Now Let's add a few More verses to our Text: Acts 2:1-17 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. 3 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. 5 And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. 6 Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language. 7 And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans? 8 And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born? 9 Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, 10 Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, 11 Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God. 12 And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this? 13 Others mocking said, These men are full of new wine. 14 But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words: 15 For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day. 16 But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; 17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:

So the Word Pentecost is and the celebration that is annually by Jews but also means to the Christian Church The Day the Holy Ghost was Poured out!

The Current Common Usage for the Word Pentecost means: To the average Christian, the Biblical significance of the word Pentecost has been pulled from its Biblical roots, and has become a catch-phrase solely designating the events described in Acts 2.

Hence the Word Pentecostal: Has become an Adjective or Modifier to describe any Individual or Group that has supernatural manifestations which are described in the book of Acts and also the entire Bible! Pentecostal is used to describe those individuals and groups which claim to experience and the manifestations by the Power of the Holy Ghost! This would be in particular to "Speaking in Tongues"

The Pentecostal phenomenon of "speaking in tongues" has created widespread controversy among modern Christendom today.

Footnote: History records this to have made it reappearance The Azusa Street Revival was an historic Pentecostal revival meeting that took place in Los Angeles, California, and was led by William J. Seymour, an African American preacher. It began with a meeting on April 14, 1906, and continued until roughly 1915.

However long before this Azusa Street manifestation of the Holy Ghost this event had it start in the Book of Acts and continues to present! Jesus Said: Matt 16:18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.

Pentecostal have held this gift almost entirely for 70 years since1906 where it had gained notoriety! Other Groups attacked with common arguments

1. It was considered by many to be a gift that was only used during the time of the apostles and with the death of the last apostle so the gift was to die as well! Since we now have Scripture!

2. It was said it was a gift that was said to only have been used for evangelism purposes! To be able to communicate with different people s and tongues!

3. It was said that the Corinthians were the tongue talkers and Paul accused them of being Carnal!

4. Tongues were Gibberish and confusing and needed to be avoided because God is not the Author of confusion!

5. It was said that were filled with the devil and it was the Devil speaking through us!

One will never understand this Gift Of God without the Knowledge of the Truth: This Truth only comes to an honest heart by Obedience to Scripture and divine Illumination from God almighty! Many have misunderstood the purpose of tongues.

Many, Many, Groups who do not understand try their best to confuse the unlearned by these theories and ideas of men!

We need to know the truth on this very important subject: The Bible teaches three principal ways in which tongues are manifested.

Firstly Lets Look At Why Pentecostal Believe You Must Speak In Tongues As The Initial Evidence Of The Holy Ghost Baptism: Let's Begin that When Discussing the Use of Tongues in the Church Paul argues that it is mandated in the Law to speak with other Tongues! He says in: 1 Cor 14:18-21 I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all: 19 Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue. 20 Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men. 21 In the law it is written, With men of other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the Lord.

Naturally One would ask where it is found in the law? Well it is found in Actually Two places: Paul is chastising the Corinthians to Grow up in their understanding and be men and if any malice to quickly grow out of it! (I don't care what is in the law)

Isaiah prophesied: The Lord is using Isaiah to rebuke Israel and let them know they have erred and have no one to teach them and they are unclean and drunk and tables full of Vomit and basically Isaiah contrast about a ministry that cannot teach that the word of god Demanded serious attention with "Precept upon Precept" they could not comprehend and a spirit that will not only Judge but will also teach and clean!

And he says: Isa 28:11-12 For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people. 12 To whom he said, This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; (Rest means Hebrew OT:4496 menuwchah (men-oo-khaw'); or menuchah (men-oo-khaw'); Repose or (adverbially) peacefully; figuratively, consolation (specifically, matrimony); Permanetly an abode:

Ex 34:21 Six days thou shalt work, but on the seventh day thou shalt rest: in earing time and in harvest thou shalt rest. This is the Same Exact Hebrew Word:

Jesus Says In the New Testament: Matt 11:28-30 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. (Greek Word NT:372 anapausis

(an-ap'-ow-sis);

Jesus Also Said In the Great Commission: Mark 16:15-20 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. 17 And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; NT:1100 glossa (gloce-sah') Tongue Language not naturally acquired) 18 .They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. 19 So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. 20 And they went forth, and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen.

Footnote: (Serpent: ophis (of'-is); probably from NT:3700 (through the idea of sharpness of vision); a snake, figuratively (as a type of sly cunning) an artful malicious person, especially Satan:

This is exactly the Way Jesus used it in addressing the same bunch John was to address: Matt 23:33 Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell? Their Slander words were of animals and cuss words that of animals so the viper would be equivalent of our word hypocrite or devil!

John The Baptist used it in addressing the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to be baptized Matt 3:7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?

Remember Peter on the Day of Pentecost said: Acts 2:38-40 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift dorea (do-reh-ah'); of the Holy Ghost. 39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. 40 And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation.

Jesus Also Went On To Say: John 3:7-8 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. 8 The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit. Jesus says just As the sound of wind blowing is the evidence of the winds presence, so is the sound of speaking in tongues evidence of the Holy Ghost baptism.

Acts 2:1-4 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. 3 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

The initial evidence of the Holy Ghost, upon the 120 disciples, was witnessed by devout Jews, out of every nation. They said one to another: Acts 2:7-8 And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans? 8 And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?

Luke Records Peter as Answering Three Questions Asked By The Onlookers:

1. And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born? Acts 2:7-8 And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans? 8 And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?

2. What meaneth this? Acts 2:12 And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this?

3. Men and brethren, what shall we do? Acts 2:37 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?

They also made accusations: Acts 2:12-13 And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this? 13 Others mocking said, These men are full of new wine.

Peter Answers and actually Launches a Message: Acts 2:14-17 But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words: 15 For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day. 16 But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; (Joel 2:28) 17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:

Peter Says this is the fulfillment of the Promise of the father: Acts 2:33 Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear.

Lets look at the Reasons Why Pentecostal Believe That You Have To Speak In Tongues To Be Saved: (Here are a Few More Instances of People receiving the Holy Ghost and Are the Reasons Why Pentecostals believe that Speaking in Tongues is the Initial evidence of the Holy Ghost) Lets Travel To Samaria: Acts 8:14-18 Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: 15 Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: 16 (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.) 17 Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost. 18 And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money, When the Samaritans received the Holy Ghost by the laying on of the apostles' hands, there was a miraculous evidence of God's power which exceeded the miracles and signs already experienced. This prompted Simon the sorcerer to offer money to buy this power: that on whomsoever he laid hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost.

(1.) Peter shows him his crime (v. 20): Thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money; and thus, [1.] He had overvalued the wealth of this world, as if it were an equivalent for any thing, and as if, because, as Solomon saith, it answers all things, relating to the life that now is, it would answer all things relating to the other life, and would purchase the pardon of sin, the gift of the Holy Ghost, and eternal life.

According to the Biblical signs that follow believers, and the experiences received at Pentecost, there should be no doubt that the Samaritans received the Holy Ghost with the same initial evidence of speaking in tongues. Acts 8:5-25.

Look with me to Acts chapter 10: Acts 10:1-8 There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band, 2 A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway. 3 He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius. 4 And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God. 5 And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter: 6 He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do. 7 And when the angel which spake unto Cornelius was departed, he called two of his household servants, and a devout soldier of them that waited on him continually; 8 And when he had declared all these things unto them, he sent them to Joppa.

They Tell Peter: Acts 10:22 And they said, Cornelius the centurion, a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews, was warned from God by an holy angel to send for thee into his house, and to hear words of thee.

Peter Comes with them accompanied with Six Brethren and preaches to Cornelius and his household and they spoke in tongues when they were baptized with the Holy Ghost. Acts 10:44-48 While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. 45 And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. 46 For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, 47 Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? 48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.

Peter in Acts 11 is called on the carpet and they are contending with him to explain why he preached and baptized Gentiles: Acts 11:13-15 And he shewed us how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter; 14 Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved. 15 And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning.

Look with me to the Believers in Ephesus: Acts 19:1-7 And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, 2 He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. 3 And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism. 4 Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. 5 When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 6 And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied. 7 And all the men were about twelve.

Remember the apostle Paul was filled with the Holy Ghost and spoke in tongues: Acts 9:17-18 And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. 18 And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.

In fact he said: 1 Cor 14:18 I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all:

History also proves that speaking in tongues was the evidence of the Holy Ghost baptism in the early church, and has not ceased to be a Biblical experience among Christians today: Encyclopedia Britannica, 1972 Edition, Vol. 22, p. 75 -Tongue-speaking manifested itself early in the Christian experience. At Pentecost (Acts 2) the gift appeared as a sign of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit which marked the character of the earliest Christians...During later church history, glossolalia (speaking in tongues) occurred among the mendicant friars of the 13th century, little prophets of Cevennes, the Jansenists, and the Irvingites. Tongues were found also among the early Quakers, as well as among the converts of John Wesley and George Whitefield... In modern times glossolalia has been found chiefly among Holiness and Pentecostal groups.

The Saturday Evening Post, May 16, 1964, p.32 - Praying in tongues has recurred at intervals throughout the Christian era, although it did not affect large masses until early in this century. Its advocates were quickly expelled from the established churches, whereupon they established the Pentecostal churches. For 50 years it remained the almost exclusive possession of the Pentecostal churches.

Newsweek, June 25, 1973, p.80 - The Pentecostal phenomenon has spread with surprising speed through all of the world's major Christian churches.

Why did God choose tongues for the initial evidence of the Holy Spirit baptism? Note the following reasons:

1. Isaiah asked: Isa 40:13 Who hath directed the Spirit of the Lord, or being his counsellor hath taught him? God is sovereign to choose as He will without being accountable to anyone!

2. Such a marvelous experience as the baptism of the Holy Ghost demands a marvelous evidence. So God chase to speak through the believer in a language foreign to him as the outward evidence of the marvelous infilling of the Holy Ghost!

3. The tongue is the most unruly member of the body and full of deadly poison, which no man can tame. It is a world of iniquity and is set on fire of hell. Therefore, the tongue is capable of defiling the entire body. James 3:6 And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.

James compares the tongue to the bit in a horse's mouth which gives the driver complete control. James 3:3. So whoever controls the tongue controls the person. How beautiful is this glorious truth! God chose tongues, as evidence of the Holy Spirit baptism, to symbolize His complete control of a believer. And this is important for the sanctification of the individual's body.

4. Although other signs were manifested at Pentecost, God chose tongues for the uniform sign of the Holy Spirit baptism. Acts 2:2-4, 10:46, 19:6. Jesus said that this SIGN shall follow every believer of the gospel. Mark 16:16, 17. The Jews were convinced that the Gentiles at Cesarea had received the baptism of the Holy Ghost, FOR THEY HEARD THEM SPEAK WITH TONGUES. Acts 10:45-47.

Secondly as one of the nine gifts of the Spirit to be used in the church: GIFT OF TONGUES IN THE CHURCH: 1 Cor 12:13-14 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. 14 For the body is not one member, but many.

1 Cor 12:4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.

The gifts of the Spirit are as follows: 1 Cor 12:8-11For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; 9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; 10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: 11 But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.

Since the gift of tongues is a manifestation of the Spirit: 1 Cor 12:6-7 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. 7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.

In other words without the Spirit of God resident in a person there cannot be any Manifestation of the Spirit to profit all! The Profit is the Gifts of the spirit working in the Assembly!

Therefore this gift is only given to Christian who have been baptized into the body of Jesus Christ by the Holy Ghost evidenced by Speaking in Tongues! .

Now the Gift Of Tongues listed as one of the Nine Spiritual Gifts is different from the Gift of Tongues as the Initial evidence of the Holy Ghost Baptism!

Compare with me the Following:

1. These tongues differ in purpose: The gift of tongues, along with the gift of interpretation of tongues, has been given to some in the church to convey a message from God to the congregation as the need requires. 1 Cor 12:27-31 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. 28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. 29 Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? 30 Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? 31 But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.

1 Cor 13:1-3 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. 3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.

Now the tongues, as evidence of receiving the Holy Ghost, is the Christian believer's personal experience with God, and is not designed to convey a message to the church but a message to the Unbeliever: Rom 8:16-27 The Spirit itself beareth witness NT:4828 (soom-mar-too-reh'-o); from NT:4862 and NT:3140; to testify jointly, i.e. corroborate by (concurrent) evidence: to Voice testify unto, (also) bear witness (with) with our spirit, that we are the children of God: 17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. 18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. 19 For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. 20 For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, 21 Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. 22 For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. 23 And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. 24 For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? 25 But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it. 26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.

Romans 8 Actually speaks of Three Groaning: 1. The groaning of the creation (Verse 22) 2. Our own groaning (Verse 23-25) 3. The groaning of the Holy Ghost as He makes intercession for us according to the will of God. (Verse 26-27)

Then The Three Groans are Characterized into Three Types: The Groan of Pain, the Groan of Longing and finally the Groan of Intercession!

A GROAN OF PAIN: Our prayers don't have to be monuments of elocution. We may not always have the right words to say? God searches the heart.

Verse 18: Tells us that all the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that shall be revealed in us. Think of it. Think of all the suffering of God's people through the ages. Think of all the those who are suffering and dying in hospitals, on battlefields, and as result of God's judgments in the creation. Think of all the suffering that ever has been and ever will be. That's the suffering of this present time, all of which cannot even be compared to the glory that awaits us.

A GROAN OF LONGING: Paul says that the creation could know? It then would know that there is something better in store for it and for us. He is speaking in comparison that if the Mindless brute creation were or had the ability to think like a man it would know that there is proof of something better!

Speaking that way, the question is: How would the creation know that something better is coming? I have read of commentators saying that: "It does so in the sunrise, in the coming of spring, in the lovely colors in which it clothes autumn's death, in the transformation of a butterfly all of which speak of the resurrection and renewal of creation in the new heavens and the new earth. In that way, too, it "knows" that its present bondage is not forever."

What Paul IS comparing is the testimony of the Spirit within the Christian Believer That Gives Utterance this Testimony of Groaning that even if Creation could think it would understand that the is proof of something better!

What the creation "knows" and expects and waits for is described in our text in two ways: It is described as the "manifestation of the sons of God," and as "the glorious liberty of the children of God."

The hope of the creation is expressed especially and most beautifully in our text by the word "travaileth" in verse 22. You know what travail is. It is the pain that attends childbirth, and it is, therefore, a pain like no other. Every other kind of pain says that something is wrong, but not travail. The pain of travail say that everything is right as right as it can possibly be! As intense as the pain of childbirth is, it is nevertheless a pain and anguish in which there is always hope the hope of the birth of a child. The pain of childbirth is itself the proof that the child is in the process of being born and will soon arrive.

We are not talking about the pain that comes with sickness or disability. In such circumstances the pain only speaks of the fact that the sickness is not yet cured or the disability removed. There is no hope in such pain, only the prospect of further suffering. But in the pain of childbirth mothers know that best there is not only the hope of an end to pain, but the hope of something that will make the pain itself seem worthwhile, the birth of another covenant child.

Do you remember Luke 21:25-28? And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; 26 Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. 27 And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh. That's what lies ahead.

So Verse 25-27 What does the spirit do?

1. Evidence and reminder that we won't have to stay in this pitiful vanity to infirmed condition forever!

2. The Spirit knows what our real motives and intents are, and then on our behalf the Holy Ghost turns our feeble prayer poverty into prayers that are "too deep for words." Words can get in the way of the kind of communication where "deep cries unto deep." (Psalm 42:7)

3. The Spirit maketh intersession for the things we don't know what to intercede for and it searcheth the Hearts of men and women lastly.

4. The Spirit changes you and I to the will of God!

The Initial Manifestation differs from the Gift of Tongues to the church in that it Only Profits you and I and everyone coming together and all they do is speak to the edification of themselves is mass confusion!

2. Also these tongues differ in operation: The gift of tongues in the church is limited to two or three messages, and that by course; and one must interpret. 1 Cor 14:26-28 How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying. 27 If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret. 28 But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God.

That was the reason why Paul wrote in so much detail 1Cor chapter 14: After discussing the gifts of the Spirit and the fruit of the Spirit (chapter 13), Paul turns his attention to the government of the Spirit (how the Holy Ghost operates in a public service).

There are three principles that govern the moving of the Spirit in a public service: Edification, Understanding, and Order.

1. EDIFICATION: Edification is one of Paul's favorite concepts, borrowed from architecture ("to build up"); it is even more appropriate today with our modern emphasis on "body building."

The mistake the Corinthians were making was to emphasize their own personal edification to the neglect of the church. In particular, the Corinthians were neglecting prophecy (inspired speech and Preaching) and over-emphasizing tongues. Now we need to remember that the speaking in tongues has in itself no ability to build up or edify the Church or other Christians.

Remember: Speaking in tongues speaks to God and God Speaking and Praying for us! While prophecy or Preaching speaks to man or the Church! This Gift will and cannot edify the Church unless it is interpreted for the Public! Speaking in tongues edifies only the speaker (unless interpreted), while prophecy or Preaching edifies the hearers. 1 Cor 14:5 I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying.

Paul is not saying to not speak with tongues? He is making sure that we understand it place and that it will not edify the Church! He is just making sure the gift is not abused in church services "except he interpret".

Rule: Remember the Gifts fall into three Categories: 1. The Knowing Gifts: Discerning of Spirit, Word of knowledge, Word of Wisdom 2. The Doing Gifts: Gifts of Healings, Working of Miracles and Faith 3. Speaking Gifts: Divers Kinds of Tongues, Interpretation of Tongues, Prophecy or preaching

Notice with me if you will What "Divers kinds of tongues" Refers to? It is tongues that interpretation is give to to profit withal! Remember 1 Corinthians 12:7 "But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal."

So to over simplify this if one is to speak in tongues in a Church Service and there is no Gift of the Interpretation then it is your personal edifying gift to edify oneself. If not interpreted it is simply your prayer language

1 Cor 12:8-11For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; 9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; 10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: 11 But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.

Holy Ghost Initial gift: Mark 16:17 "new tongues" Language that is not native to the individual. Acts 2:4 "Other Tongues" cloven Tongues Tongues other than their own that was intelligible to others. Acts 2:11 "Our tongues" Acts 10:46 Acts 19:6 "With Tongues" 1Cor 13:1 "Tongues of Men and Angels" Rom 8:26 "With groanings which cannot be uttered"

2. UNDERSTANDING: It is not enough to GIVE information to people; They must RECEIVE it for it to do them any good. Not everyone who listens really hears! We must do our best to create UNDERSTANDING of the Word of God. A ministry must build up and if it does not do that then it will tear down! No matter how spiritual it may appear.

Sadly Sometimes we overemphasize the "experience" and minimize the "understanding" part of the church service. It is counterproductive to be "event-oriented" instead of "process-oriented."

Paul uses three illustrations to make his point about understanding: 1. Musical instruments 2. Bugle call in battle 3. Everyday conversation.

We must give a CERTAIN SOUND. We have often applied this to our doctrine, but that is not Paul's emphasis here. He is instructing the church to conduct their services in a way that creates understanding rather than confusion. Sometimes the way we "do church" is like speaking a foreign language to those that are in attendance!

Three groups need to have understanding in a church service: The Speaker himself needs to concentrate on "edifying" rather than just experiencing some kind of spiritual excitement. Paul is not excluding either, he does both: 1 Cor 14:15 What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.

Other Christian Believers need to concentrate on "responding" and give a sign of this understanding! 1 Cor 14:16 Else when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest?

Paul Also Gives a Mature Directive: To the Immature Church Paul says to be like children in malice, don't get offended, but to be like men in understanding, edify others before yourself! Don't Go Beyond the Law either in Disobedience and Say or get offended and Say "Well I just wont speak in tongues ever again!"

The unsaved or sinners need to be able to make sense of what is happening in a church service. (At Pentecost, the supernatural manifestation of speaking in tongues was still followed by Peter's sermon in a language they could all understand.)

Whether prophesying or speaking in tongues, the key concept is UNDERSTANDING. Therefore, a message in tongues must be interpreted in a public service. 1Cor 14:19

3. Finally ORDER: v. 26 - "let all things be done unto edifying" v. 40 - "let all things be done decently and in order"

When a building is constructed, there must be a plan that coordinates everyone's contribution to the project. The same is true of a church service order is important (not sacred, just important!).

But in Corinth, the key word was "exhibition" instead of "edification." In the early church, each member participated in speaking in tongues. It seems that speaking in tongues was causing the most difficulties, so Paul gives several instructions:

1 Cor 14:27 If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret. (not more than three messages, and each must be interpreted)

1 Cor 14:28 But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God. (no messages in tongues without an interpretation)

1 Cor 14:29 Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge. (Prophecies and messages in tongues may be judged by other speakers and or speaker and or the discriminate party such as the Pastor)

1 Cor 14:30 If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace. (Only one person giving a message in tongues at any time)

1 Cor 14:31 For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted. (All the prophetic voices in a service must follow order)

1 Cor 14:32 And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. (God's Spirit does not take away our self-control)

1 Cor 14:33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. (As confusing as this may seem this is the order to keep the seervice from confusion and the devil is the author of confusion and God is the God of Order)

1 Cor 14:34-35 Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. 35 And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church. ("let women keep silence" cannot mean no involvement, because Paul had already permitted women to pray he is just saying that a woman cannot take the Preaching of oversight position)

Footnote: This is why Timothy Wrote: 1 Tim 2:12-15 But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. 13 For Adam was first formed, then Eve. 14 And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression. 15 Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.

1 Cor 14:36-37 What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only? 37 If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord. (True fellowship is based on our obedience to the Word of God, and Paul cautions us to be wary of people who always have a "new revelation" but are not walking in the truth they already know. New revelations can be that of wrong interpretation of Tongues and He seems to have this idea in mind as he cautions to let the other judge! Some one who like the positions not to be usurped will usurp the W9ord of God!)

1 Cor 14:38-40 But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant. 39 Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues. 40 Let all things be done decently and in order. Paul is not seeking to stop the use of tongues he is asking that in a Church Service we Prophesy and for sure make sure you do speak with other tongues!

So the tongues as evidence of the Holy Ghost baptism is an unlimited manifestation and requires no interpretation. Paul said: 1 Cor 14:4-14 He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church. 5 I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying. 6 Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine? 7 And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped? 8 For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle? 9 So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air. 10 There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification. 11 Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh shall be a barbarian unto me. 12 Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church. 13 Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret. 14 For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful.

Here is the Key and another part of new Testament Law: 1 Cor 14:19 Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.

Certainly the apostle did not try to discredit or do away with the importance of tongues. Because, in comparison, he illustrated that the less honorable members of the body are necessary, and receive more abundant honor. I Cor. 12:22, 23.

Each gift of the Spirit has its proper time and place in the church, and when tongues are interpreted they become as important as prophecy or preaching!

So Paul emphasized: 1 Cor 14:26-28 How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying. 27 If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret. 28 But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God.

The Issue is in Church or Self Edification: It is better for the edification of the church to speak five words of understanding than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue without a divinely inspired interpretation.

Again However, lest anyone misunderstand the importance of tongues, Paul concluded: 1 Cor 14:37-40 If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord. 38 But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant. 39 Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues. 40 Let all things be done decently and in order.

God Wants All Unbelievers to Believe: I Cor. 14:22 "Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not...".

This Scripture deals with God's speaking to man. (See I Cor. 14:21.) Of course, the believer should know when the Lord speaks, whether by tongues or not. But as a proof to the unbeliever, or anyone who doubts the Word of God, tongues are manifested for a miraculous sign of His presence.

Paul asked the question, "Do all speak with tongues" I Cor. 12:30. The context of this Scripture requires a negative answer, because Paul is discussing tongues as a gift of the Spirit only, and not as the evidence of the Holy Spirit baptism. (See I Cor. 12:28.) The gift of tongues is in addition to the tongues experienced with the baptism of the Holy Ghost. (By the same rule, the gift of faith is in addition to the measure of faith given a person to be saved. Compare Ram. 12:3, I Cor. 12:9.) So everyone may not receive the gift of tongues. But in every case, where the initial evidence of the Holy Spirit baptism is recorded, "ALL" spoke in tongues. (For examples see Acts 2:4, 10:44, 19:7.) Interesting that We all Speak in Tongues!

3. Thirdly as the Christian Believers personal devotion to God. PERSONAL DEVOTION TO GOD: Tongues are also manifested in a believer's personal life of prayer and worship. They serve as a means of his secret communication with God in the Spirit.

These tongues are not meant to be understood by men; therefore, they need no interpretation. I Cor. 14:2 "He that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the Spirit he speaketh mysteries.". Rom. 8:26 "The Spirit itself maketh intercession far us with groanings which cannot be uttered.".

Paul said: I Cor.14:14, 15. "If I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful. What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also."

These devotional tongues are also for the personal edification of the believer. They are for self-encouragement and uplifting of his spirit. Paul said, I Cor. 14:4. "He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself..."

So the apostle gladly stated: I Cor. 14:18 "I thank my Gad, I speak with tongues more than ye all."

So How long will tongues continue to be manifested? 1 Cor 13:8-12 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. 9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. 10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. 11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. 12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

The phrase, "when that which is perfect is come," is translated from the Greek phrase "to teleion". The word "teleion" is a singular neuter term which refers to Jesus Christ. Thayer's Greek-English Lexicon, p.618, defines the phrase "to teleion" as used in I Cor. 13:10: "The perfect state of all things, to be ushered in by the return of Christ from heaven."

Paul said: I Cor. 13:12 "Now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then (when that which is perfect is come) shall I know even as also I am known."

When the church, having reached her state of perfection, stands face to face in the presence of God, there will be no need for prophecies, tongues and knowledge. But until that which is perfect (Jesus Christ) is come, that which is in part will remain. And as long as there remains prophecies and knowledge, tongues shall not cease.

So Paul instructed the church to Use all the Gifts and especially to use them you first have to Receive the Holy Ghost! Then we are WAITING FOR THE COMING OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST Who is the Perfect! I Cor. 1:7.

Believe the Truth! The Pentecostal phenomenon is for you today! If you desire the greatest experience God has offered to mankind, I urge you to repent, and be baptized with water in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and receive the baptism of the Holy Ghost, evidenced by speaking in tongues! Acts 2:4,38,39