One of the most intriguing and occasionally misinterpreted spiritual gifts described in the Bible is the ability to speak in tongues. Often utilized in prayer, praise, or as a warning to unbelievers, it is defined as a supernatural gift bestowed by the Holy Spirit that allows one to speak in languages that are foreign to the speaker.
This gift has been interpreted as an expression of God’s might and presence among His people since the day of Pentecost in Acts 2, when the disciples were filled with the Spirit and began speaking in various tongues. Speaking in tongues enables people to convey mysteries to God directly, which is a profound spiritual connection for many believers.
Speaking in tongues is discussed in the Bible in both descriptive and educational contexts. It manifests in the book of Acts as a supernatural sign that accompanied the Holy Spirit’s outpouring, enabling the early church to share the gospel across linguistic and cultural divides. Speaking in tongues is explained in relation to spiritual gifts and worship order in Paul’s letters, especially 1 Corinthians.
Paul stresses that although tongues can edify an individual, their use in public worship requires interpretation to strengthen the church as a whole. These verses serve as a reminder that, like all spiritual gifts, the gift of languages is intended to exalt God and fortify the body of Christ.
Christians can develop a well-rounded understanding of the gift—its function, its role in individual devotion, and its significance in collective worship—by studying Bible scriptures of speaking in tongues. Some find it to be a source of support during prayer, providing words when spoken language is insufficient. Others doubt its applicability and implementation in the modern era. We can understand the gift of tongues as a component of God’s work through the Holy Spirit, which leads us to worship in spirit and in truth while attempting to honor Christ in everything, by studying what Scripture says.
40 Powerful Bible Verses About Speaking In Tongues (2025)
1. Exodus 4:12
“Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.”
In this pivotal moment, God calls Moses to stand before Pharaoh and lead the Israelites out of Egypt. Moses, feeling inadequate and fearful due to his lack of eloquence, hesitates. God’s response is both empowering and instructive—He promises to be the source of Moses’ speech. This verse teaches us that divine utterance is not rooted in human ability but in divine availability. When God commissions us, He equips us with the words, timing, and wisdom necessary to carry out His will. Even our perceived weaknesses can become vessels of divine speech when we trust in His guidance.
2. Numbers 22:38
“I must speak only what God puts in my mouth.”
This declaration by Balaam, a prophet enticed by wealth to curse Israel, reveals a surprising reverence for the authority of God’s words. Although Balaam’s heart may have been compromised, he recognizes that genuine utterance must come from God alone. This verse highlights the sacredness of speaking on God’s behalf. It reminds us that any message claiming divine origin must align with God’s will, not our own agenda. In ministry, prophecy, or even personal counsel, utterance must be surrendered to divine authority, not shaped by selfish motives or external pressure.
3. Isaiah 28:11-12
“Very well then, with foreign lips and strange tongues God will speak to this people, to whom he said, ‘This is the resting place, let the weary rest’; and, ‘This is the place of repose’—but they would not listen.”
Isaiah speaks prophetically of a time when God would use “foreign lips and strange tongues” as a means of communication to His people. This foreshadows the New Testament gift of tongues, demonstrating God’s sovereignty in choosing how He communicates. The tragedy is that many refused to listen, showing that the problem is not in God’s message but in the hardness of human hearts. This passage points us to the importance of being receptive when God speaks, even if His methods are unfamiliar or mysterious.
4. Mark 16:17
“And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues.”
Here, Jesus declares that speaking in new tongues would be one of the signs that follow believers. This powerful statement assures us that tongues are a supernatural gift available to those who put their faith in Christ. “New tongues” refers to a Spirit-given utterance beyond human language, signifying the presence of God and His empowering work in the believer. This verse highlights tongues as a sign of faith, spiritual authority, and a demonstration of the gospel’s transformative power.
5. Acts 2:4
“All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.”
On the Day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples, and they began to speak in tongues understood by people from many nations. This event marked the beginning of the Church’s mission and fulfilled God’s promise of the Spirit’s outpouring. Speaking in tongues here served both as personal empowerment and as a miraculous sign to the world that God’s message transcends barriers of culture and language. It shows that the Spirit equips believers to carry the gospel across the nations.
6. Acts 10:46
“For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God.”
In Cornelius’ household, Gentiles received the Holy Spirit and began speaking in tongues, astonishing the Jewish believers who witnessed it. This moment confirmed that salvation and the Spirit’s baptism were not limited to Israel but extended to all who believe in Jesus. Tongues became a visible sign of God’s inclusion and acceptance of the Gentiles into His family. This passage emphasizes that the gift of tongues is a universal sign of the Spirit’s work and a testimony of God’s grace to all people.
7. Acts 19:6
“When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied.”
Here we see another example of tongues following the baptism of the Holy Spirit. When Paul laid hands on the disciples at Ephesus, they immediately spoke in tongues and prophesied. This demonstrates the connection between Spirit baptism and tongues as an outward sign of inward empowerment. It also shows that the gifts of the Spirit often work together, with tongues and prophecy complementing each other in edifying the Church and advancing the gospel.
8. 1 Corinthians 12:10
“To another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues.”
Paul explains that speaking in tongues is one of the many spiritual gifts distributed by the Holy Spirit. Each gift serves a unique purpose in building up the body of Christ. Tongues are given for prayer, praise, and, when interpreted, for the edification of the Church. This verse reminds us that tongues are not a standalone phenomenon but part of a broader spiritual framework meant to glorify God and strengthen the faith community.
9. 1 Corinthians 14:2
“For anyone who speaks in a tongue does not speak to people but to God. Indeed, no one understands them; they utter mysteries by the Spirit.”
This verse highlights the personal dimension of speaking in tongues. When a believer prays in tongues, they are speaking directly to God, uttering mysteries beyond human understanding. Tongues provide a unique channel for intimate prayer and communion with God. While others may not understand, the Spirit intercedes, allowing the believer to connect with God on a deeper spiritual level. It underscores tongues as both a gift for personal edification and a sign of the Spirit’s presence.
10. 1 Corinthians 14:4
“Anyone who speaks in a tongue edifies themselves, but the one who prophesies edifies the church.”
Paul explains that tongues primarily serve to build up the individual believer, while prophecy builds up the whole congregation. This distinction does not diminish the value of tongues but rather clarifies its purpose. Speaking in tongues strengthens the believer’s spirit, offering refreshment, encouragement, and a deeper awareness of God’s presence. This verse teaches us that while tongues benefit personal spiritual growth, they must also be balanced with gifts that edify the community.
11. 1 Corinthians 14:5
“I would like every one of you to speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless someone interprets, so that the church may be edified.”
Paul expresses his desire for all believers to experience speaking in tongues, yet he highlights prophecy’s greater impact on the gathered church. This passage emphasizes the importance of edification: while tongues enrich the individual, prophecy strengthens the whole body. However, tongues accompanied by interpretation can have the same effect as prophecy. This balance teaches us that spiritual gifts are not about competition but about using them in love and order to build up the church.
12. 1 Corinthians 14:13
“For this reason the one who speaks in a tongue should pray that they may interpret what they say.”
Paul urges believers who speak in tongues to seek the gift of interpretation. This verse reminds us that while tongues connect us deeply with God, their message becomes a blessing to others only when interpreted. This dual gift ensures that the mysteries spoken in the Spirit can be understood, strengthening the faith of the entire congregation. It highlights the responsibility of using spiritual gifts in ways that glorify God and serve others.
13. 1 Corinthians 14:14
“For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my mind is unfruitful.”
Here, Paul acknowledges the mystery of tongues: it bypasses human intellect, allowing the spirit to communicate directly with God. This doesn’t diminish its value but reveals its unique function. While the mind may not grasp the words, the heart and spirit are edified. This verse teaches that tongues enhance spiritual intimacy with God, though they should be paired with understanding when possible. It reveals the beautiful depth of prayer beyond human language.
14. 1 Corinthians 14:15
“So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my understanding; I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my understanding.”
Paul offers a balanced approach—embracing both spiritual tongues and intelligible prayer. This verse encourages believers to value both expressions: tongues for spiritual depth and understanding for clarity. It also introduces the idea of singing in tongues, showing that the gift can overflow into worship. Paul’s example invites us to pursue fullness in prayer and worship, allowing both spirit and mind to engage in glorifying God.
15. 1 Corinthians 14:18
“I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you.”
Paul testifies to his frequent use of tongues, affirming its importance in his personal spiritual life. Despite his practical guidance to the Corinthian church, he personally valued and practiced the gift. This verse shows that tongues were a vital part of his walk with God, equipping him with strength and intimacy in prayer. Paul’s example encourages believers to embrace the gift while remembering to use it responsibly within the body of Christ.
16. 1 Corinthians 14:19
“But in the church I would rather speak five intelligible words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue.”
While Paul deeply valued tongues, he prioritized clarity when addressing the church. His point is not to diminish tongues but to emphasize that love and edification must guide their use. Without interpretation, tongues remain a private gift, whereas intelligible teaching benefits all. This verse challenges us to practice spiritual gifts with wisdom, ensuring they serve God’s people effectively rather than drawing attention to ourselves.
17. 1 Corinthians 14:22
“Tongues, then, are a sign, not for believers but for unbelievers; prophecy, however, is not for unbelievers but for believers.”
Paul explains that tongues can serve as a sign for unbelievers, pointing to the supernatural reality of God’s presence. On the Day of Pentecost, for example, tongues amazed the crowds and drew them to hear the gospel. This passage highlights the missional purpose of tongues—they can spark curiosity and open hearts to God’s truth. It reminds us that spiritual gifts carry both inward and outward significance, pointing people to Christ.
18. 1 Corinthians 14:23
“So if the whole church comes together and everyone speaks in tongues, and inquirers or unbelievers come in, will they not say that you are out of your mind?”
Paul warns against disorderly use of tongues in public gatherings. Without interpretation, an entire congregation speaking in tongues could confuse or even repel outsiders. This verse stresses the importance of order, clarity, and love in worship. It encourages believers to be mindful of how their spiritual expressions impact others, ensuring that everything points people to Christ rather than creating misunderstanding.
19. 1 Corinthians 14:27
“If anyone speaks in a tongue, two—or at the most three—should speak, one at a time, and someone must interpret.”
Paul lays down practical instructions for the orderly use of tongues in church. Limiting the number of speakers and requiring interpretation ensures that the message builds up the body rather than creating confusion. This verse reminds us that spiritual gifts are subject to order and self-control, reflecting the nature of God Himself. Tongues, when practiced according to biblical instruction, can edify the whole congregation and glorify God.
20. 1 Corinthians 14:39
“Therefore, my brothers and sisters, be eager to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues.”
Paul concludes his teaching on tongues with balance—encouraging prophecy while also affirming the legitimacy of tongues. This verse is a clear reminder that tongues should not be dismissed or suppressed in the church. Instead, they must be embraced as part of God’s design when exercised with love and order. It encourages believers to welcome all spiritual gifts, recognizing their role in nurturing both personal and corporate faith.
21. Romans 8:26
“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.”
Paul teaches that the Holy Spirit intercedes for believers in prayer, especially when words fall short. While not explicitly naming tongues, this passage aligns with the idea of Spirit-led utterances beyond human understanding. It reassures us that prayer in the Spirit carries divine weight, bypassing our limited vocabulary to express the depths of our heart. Tongues, as one expression of Spirit-led prayer, remind us that God understands what even we cannot articulate.
22. Ephesians 6:18
“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.”
Paul commands believers to pray “in the Spirit” continually, showing the importance of Spirit-led prayer as part of spiritual warfare. Praying in tongues is one of the ways this command can be lived out, helping believers remain alert and steadfast in faith. This verse highlights prayer as both a defensive and offensive weapon in the Christian life. It reminds us that tongues can strengthen our prayer life, keeping us connected to God’s power in every situation.
23. Jude 1:20
“But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit.”
Jude exhorts believers to strengthen their faith through Spirit-led prayer. Speaking in tongues, as a form of praying in the Spirit, builds up the inner life of the believer, fortifying them against doubt and spiritual attack. This verse emphasizes that prayer is not only about requests but also about spiritual edification. It shows that praying in tongues can be a powerful tool for nurturing resilience, faith, and endurance in the Christian walk.
24. Acts 19:5-6
“On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied.”
This passage shows how baptism in Jesus’ name was followed by the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Tongues and prophecy immediately confirmed the Spirit’s presence. It illustrates the close connection between faith in Christ, baptism, and the empowering of the Spirit. Speaking in tongues here serves as a visible, audible sign that the Spirit has taken residence in the lives of new believers.
25. Acts 2:6
“When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard their own language being spoken.”
The miracle at Pentecost was not only that the disciples spoke in tongues but that the listeners understood them in their own languages. This verse highlights tongues as a sign to outsiders, drawing attention to the message of the gospel. It shows God’s heart for the nations, using tongues to bridge linguistic and cultural gaps. This moment foreshadows the Church’s global mission empowered by the Spirit.
26. Acts 2:11
“(Both Jews and converts to Judaism); Cretans and Arabs—we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!”
The crowd at Pentecost recognized that the disciples were declaring God’s wonders in their native languages. This emphasizes that tongues were not random but purposeful—proclaiming God’s glory. It teaches that tongues serve as a testimony to God’s greatness and an invitation for all nations to hear of His mighty works. This verse reinforces the missional aspect of tongues in advancing God’s kingdom.
27. Joel 2:28
“And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions.”
Joel’s prophecy foreshadows the Pentecost outpouring, when tongues, prophecy, and visions became signs of the Spirit’s arrival. This verse reminds us that tongues are part of a larger outpouring of spiritual gifts for all believers, regardless of age, gender, or status. It assures us that the Spirit’s work is inclusive and generational, equipping every believer for divine purpose.
28. Acts 11:15
“As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit came on them as he had come on us at the beginning.”
Peter recalls how the Spirit fell on Cornelius’ household in the same way He came upon the disciples at Pentecost. This confirms that tongues and other manifestations of the Spirit were not limited to the first disciples but available to all who believe. It shows continuity in how God validates His work among different groups of people. This verse affirms the consistency of God’s gift of tongues across contexts.
29. Acts 11:17
“So if God gave them the same gift he gave us who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to think that I could stand in God’s way?”
Peter acknowledges that the Gentiles received the same gift of the Spirit, evidenced by speaking in tongues. This was proof that God’s Spirit was not bound by ethnicity, tradition, or religious background. Tongues served as a sign of God’s impartial grace. This verse challenges us to recognize and celebrate the Spirit’s work in all believers without prejudice.
30. 1 Corinthians 13:1
“If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.”
Paul reminds us that the gift of tongues, though powerful, must be grounded in love. Without love, spiritual gifts lose their meaning and impact. This verse highlights that tongues can be both earthly and heavenly in expression, yet their purpose must always align with love for God and others. It teaches us that spiritual gifts are not ends in themselves but tools for expressing the love of Christ.
31. 1 Corinthians 14:28
“If there is no interpreter, the speaker should keep quiet in the church and speak to himself and to God.”
Paul provides clear guidance for maintaining order in public worship. Tongues without interpretation are not to be exercised aloud in the assembly, but they can still be used privately as a prayer to God. This verse emphasizes reverence in worship, ensuring that everything builds up the church. It shows that tongues are valuable both in public with interpretation and privately in communion with God.
32. 1 Corinthians 14:33
“For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people.”
This verse provides a principle that applies to all spiritual gifts, including tongues: God values peace and order. The Spirit never leads into chaos or confusion. Instead, His gifts operate in harmony, reflecting His character. Tongues, therefore, must always serve God’s purposes of edification and peace. This passage reassures us that the Spirit’s work, though powerful, is always orderly and life-giving.
33. Acts 1:5
“For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”
Jesus promised His disciples the baptism of the Holy Spirit, which was fulfilled on Pentecost with the evidence of tongues. This verse highlights that the Spirit’s baptism is distinct from water baptism and comes with empowerment for ministry. It reminds believers that tongues are part of the Spirit’s equipping to live boldly and witness effectively for Christ.
34. Acts 1:8
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
This foundational verse links the Holy Spirit’s empowerment with global mission. Though not explicitly mentioning tongues, it is fulfilled at Pentecost when tongues enabled the gospel to reach many nations. It shows that tongues are not only for personal edification but also for equipping believers to testify of Christ’s power across cultural and linguistic barriers.
35. John 7:38-39
“Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive.”
Jesus describes the Spirit’s outpouring as rivers of living water flowing from within believers. Tongues are one manifestation of this overflowing presence, demonstrating the Spirit’s life at work. This verse highlights the abundance of the Spirit, who empowers believers to carry God’s life to others. Speaking in tongues reflects this inner overflow of God’s Spirit in prayer and worship.
36. John 14:26
“But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”
Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would guide and empower His followers. Tongues are part of this empowerment, allowing believers to pray and speak beyond their natural capacity. This verse shows the Spirit’s role as teacher and enabler, helping us to operate in gifts such as tongues for God’s glory. It emphasizes reliance on the Spirit for utterance and revelation.
37. John 16:13
“But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.”
The Spirit is described as the guide into truth, speaking only what He hears from the Father. Tongues align with this principle, as they are Spirit-given utterances, not humanly crafted words. This verse assures us that when we pray or speak in tongues, we are allowing the Spirit to express God’s will through us. It underscores the reliability of Spirit-led speech.
38. Matthew 10:20
“For it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.”
Jesus assures His disciples that in times of trial, the Spirit will give them the words they need. This reflects the same truth behind tongues—that divine utterance is Spirit-enabled, not man-made. Whether in preaching, prayer, or tongues, God equips His people with supernatural speech. This verse gives confidence that our words, when Spirit-led, carry the weight of God’s authority and presence.
39. Zechariah 4:6
“‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty.”
Though not directly about tongues, this principle applies to every spiritual gift, including tongues. Human strength cannot produce divine utterance; it comes solely through the Spirit’s empowerment. Tongues serve as a reminder that spiritual effectiveness flows from dependence on God’s Spirit. This verse anchors us in humility, recognizing that all gifts are Spirit-driven, not human achievements.
40. Revelation 19:6
“Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting: ‘Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns.’”
John’s vision of heavenly worship echoes the sound of tongues—voices united in declaring God’s glory beyond earthly comprehension. Though not explicitly tongues, this passage reflects the heavenly language of worship, foreshadowing the eternal praise of believers. It reminds us that tongues today are a glimpse of the unending worship we will share in heaven, joining voices in Spirit-filled adoration of God’s reign.
Conclusion
The Holy Spirit’s lovely and potent gift of speaking in tongues still uplifts and fortifies believers today. The Bible demonstrates that this spiritual expression is intended to promote edification, a closer relationship with God, and unity within the body of Christ rather than to produce misunderstanding or discord. The gift reminds us of the amazing ways God chooses to work in His people, whether it is used in the congregation with interpretation to strengthen the church or in private prayer to deepen one’s faith.
It is evident from considering these Bible passages regarding speaking in tongues that the gift must always be directed by love, humility, and order, as prescribed by the Bible. It is about honoring God and letting the Spirit flow freely, not about showing off or taking pride in oneself. Speaking in tongues can be a gateway to more personal prayer, more spiritual strength, and a closer relationship with God’s will for people looking for a closer relationship with the Lord. The gift ultimately leads us back to the source, the Holy Spirit, who provides us with the means to live a life of worship, service, and faith.
