Title: Heaven's Language

Icebreaker: What do you think we’ll be doing when we get to heaven? What language do you think we’ll speak?

This Sunday our Bishop delivered a dynamic teaching on what we know as speaking in tongues. When we read through the scriptures and find reference to something God created to be good and gave to his Church as a gift, we should study to learn the truth God intended. When it comes to speaking in tongues people misinterpret what it is and why we do it, some even reject it altogether. Jesus himself listed speaking in tongues as a sign that someone follows him (Mark 16:17). Maybe it is important for us to learn the meaning and intention of tongues, so that we can make an informed decision on how to utilize this spiritual gift.

1 Corinthians 14:2, 18

I. The Origin

• When God first created mankind he had to have a way to speak with them in the garden. We find evidence of some sort of language shared between God, the angels, and mankind, as we read the Genesis account. It is not until later in creation, after sin has entered, that we find people misusing this unity of language to try and elevate humans to God’s level. It is this Tower of Babel moment that caused God to diversify man’s language.
• Thousands of years go by, after Babel, with mankind being scattered across the globe, separated by language barriers. It is not until , the day of Pentecost, where we see the Spirit of God fall on the disciples and give them the ability to speak in new languages (Acts 2).
• So tongues simply means exactly what the disciples experienced, it’s a supernatural ability to speak in a language that we did not study to learn. 1 Corinthians 13:10 points to the fact that this gift of tongues is intended for us today as we await Christ’s return. The gifts of the Spirit, including tongues, are all intended to strengthen us as we await the return of the Lord, because once he comes he will perfect all things.

Discussion:

Do you enjoy superhero films or comics? Each superhero usually has one unique ability, or a unique expression, that sets them apart... we can think of tongues in a similar way. Could there be different expressions of tongues?

II. Types of Tongues

• There are four types of tongues, and it’s important to know the difference. Two are intended for public expression, while two are meant for private use. One public expression is known as tongues of man, or the ability to speak in a world language that’s foreign to you, for instance suddenly speaking in Spanish when you’ve never studied it (Acts 2:7). These public tongues are a demonstration to the unbeliever, a sign that points them to the existence of the God they don’t yet know (1 Corinthians 14:22).
• The other public tongue is one that can be interpreted and operates similar to prophecy. It’s not a known language to mankind, but a language and gift of interpretation that’s only given by the Spirit.
• The private tongues are for prayer, both personal and intercession for others (1 Corinthians 14:14-15). In our private tongues we’re able to communicate with God in a way that no others, human or spirit, can understand. The beauty of this gift is that the enemy can’t disrupt whatever we’re praying for, since he can't understand the language.
• There are many spiritual gifts the Father makes available to us by his Spirit, all for the purpose of strengthening us as we wait to join him in glory. It is a personal decision and pursuit to access these gifts, or to overlook them.

UPCOMING EVENTS + REMINDERS:

Spanish Services at City Church: Spanish services are now in full swing at City Church! Every Sunday you can worship with us in the chapel at 10 AM, alongside our English service. We look forward to seeing you there!

GriefShare: Grief is one of life’s most difficult journeys, but you don’t have to go through it alone. If you, or someone you know, has lost a loved one you can begin your journey from mourning to joy through GriefShare at City Church. Meetings are held on Saturdays at 9:00 AM in the District Pastors’ Office. For more information please visit citychurchnola.life/GriefShare.

Wednesday Morning Prayer: You can participate in corporate prayer every Wednesday morning at 7 AM on Facebook. Join us each week as we continue to pray for our church, our city, and our nation.

City Life TV: You can watch our Bishop deliver thoughtful messages throughout the week. Tune in to WHNO, channel 20, Saturdays at 10:00 PM.

REPORT:

Please continue to report your in-person and virtual group meetings!

By using the same email you would normally receive, you may update your group information and report your weekly meetings.

If you need help with reporting, please contact your district pastor.

Have an amazing and spirit-filled group!