To Speak or Not Speak in Tongues
As you may be aware, Aglow International was birthed during the Charismatic Renewal in the 60’s. People were hungry for more of God, and this fresh, new wave of interest in the Baptism in the Holy Spirit was the catalyst that propelled many into a deeper place in their relationship with God. Because Father Dennis Bennett, an Episcopal Priest, was filled with Holy Spirit in 1960, he shared his experience in the Church he led in California. It wasn’t long before he was asked to leave, and he moved to Seattle, WA.
Many women who would become Aglow’s early leaders were drawn to Father Bennett’s church, St. Luke’s Episcopal, where they received the Baptism of Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in tongues. Their lives were so changed by this experience that they continued to meet for Bible study, and eventually, Aglow was birthed.
Last year, Tim Sheets, Pastor/Apostle of Oasis Church in Middletown, OH, taught several messages on Holy Spirit. He has given Aglow permission to use one of the messages, The Gift He Promised. Because all Aglow leaders are required to be baptized in Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in tongues, we felt this message would give a new understanding of how powerful this prayer language is.
In the introductory paragraphs of a small booklet published by Aglow in 1984, it was written, “’Why should I speak in tongues? What good is it?’ and ‘What’s all the fuss about? I thought I received the Holy Spirit when I was saved.’”
The booklet continues, “No subject is greeted in Christian circles with more mixed emotions, more confusion, more enthusiasm, and more anger than speaking in tongues. Individual churches have split over this issue, denominations stand divided, and sadly, the major doctrinal difference separating some of the largest denominations is a position on this explosive subject.” What was true in 1984 is still true in some places today, yet Jesus told the disciples to tarry in Jerusalem until the Holy Spirit comes. (Luke 24:49)
Whether you are merely curious about speaking in tongues, whether you are seeking this gift, or whether you are a strong opponent, we invite you to read through Tim Sheet’s message – or click on the link to the video – and lean in to hear what Holy Spirit is saying about Himself today. He is the same – yesterday, today, and forever!
I am entirely grateful that Aglow continues to use prayer language, speaking in tongues and a number of other names for this gift from God. Even in non-denominational churches I am seeing a trend to ‘be careful’ with this language as it offends some people. It is the very fire of God operating in us that sets many free, sees manifestations of healing, for deliverance, for rescue. I cannot imagine how my life would have been SO different if I had not received the Baptism of the Holy Spirit when I was 17 years old.
My biggest contention for this invaluable gift from God comes directly from scripture: Romans 8: 26 and 27 “LIkewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray 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.
Which of us doesn’t want to be in the will of God?
Thank you for staying true to the Word of God! That’s one of the chief reasons I love Aglow so much.