Expert: Elder Greg Madden - 2/12/2007

Question
My question has to do with the gift of tongues as a sign that one has received the Baptism by the Holy Spirit. I am trying to find biblical reference to this. I appreciate any help on this matter.

Thank you
Bob Wood

Answer
Bob,

Thank you for your question. I just preached last night on this very subject, and would be happy to help. First, let me give a simple definition of the Baptism of the Holy Spirit...

"...the Baptism in the Holy Spirit is a definite experience, not identical with conversion. When the Baptism in the Holy Spirit is received, unknown tongues will follow. The Baptism in the Holy Spirit is given to endue the believer with power from on high; to give and to equip him for a practical, efficient, spirit-filled, soul-winning ministry and service. Inasmuch as this is the dispensation of the Holy Spirit, every believer has a right to expect His incoming to be after the same manner as recorded by the Word of God in Bible days."

Here is the Biblical references...

Isaiah 28:11
For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people.  
28:12
To whom he said, This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing: yet they would not hear.

Mark 16:17
And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;

Acts 2:4
And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance

Acts 10:44
While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word.  
10:45
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.  
10:46
For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter,

Acts 19:2
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.  
19:3
And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized ? And they said, Unto John's baptism.  
19:4
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.  
19:5
When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.  
19:6
And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.

Bob, please let me know if this helps, or if you have any other questions.
Elder Greg Madden