Bible Study: Why Do We Speak in Tongues? (AG 101 Explained in Under 3 Minutes)
- Boundless Team
- May 25
- 4 min read
Speaking in tongues is the biblical initial physical evidence of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit. It provides believers with a "power surge" for bolder witnessing, deeper prayer, and a more intimate connection with God, as seen throughout the New Testament Book of Acts.
Have you ever sat in a service at First Assembly Memphis and heard someone pray in a language you didn’t recognize? Or maybe you’ve seen a video from Boundless Online Church where the Pastor mentions being "filled with the Spirit." If you’re curious, skeptical, or just plain confused, you aren't alone. It’s one of the most common questions we get in the 901.
Speaking in tongues isn't about being "extra holy" or joining a secret club. It’s about a gift God promised to every believer to help us navigate a loud, complicated world with supernatural peace and power.
What is the Baptism in the Holy Spirit?
In the Assemblies of God (AG) tradition, we believe there is a distinct experience following salvation called the Baptism in the Holy Spirit. Think of it like this: if salvation is like getting a new car, the Baptism in the Holy Spirit is like putting the pedal to the metal and feeling the engine surge. You had the power before, but now you have a surge of power for the road ahead.
Definition Block: Baptism in the Holy Spirit
A spiritual experience, separate from and following salvation, where a believer is filled with the Holy Spirit, resulting in spiritual power for witnessing and the initial physical sign of speaking in tongues (Acts 2:4).
This experience isn't just for "pastors" or "super-Christians." It’s a universal gift. As of 2025, researchers estimate that nearly 828 million people, about 1 in 3 Christians worldwide, identify as Pentecostal or Charismatic. This isn't a "corner" movement; it is a global outpouring of God’s grace.
Why Tongues? (The 3-Minute Breakdown)
Why did God choose language as the sign? The Bible gives us several clear reasons why this gift matters today:
A Direct Line to God: Sometimes, life in Memphis gets so heavy that we don’t even have the words to pray. Speaking in tongues allows our spirit to communicate directly with God beyond our intellectual understanding (1 Corinthians 14:2).
Boldness to Witness: In Acts 1:8, Jesus promised, "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses." This gift turns "quiet" faith into a bold, outward mission to serve our city.
Personal Edification: It builds you up. Like a battery being charged, praying in the Spirit refreshes your inner man and strengthens your faith during difficult seasons.
Benefit | Scripture Reference | What it means for you |
Power Surge | Acts 1:8 | Strength to share your faith in the 901. |
Deeper Prayer | Romans 8:26 | Praying even when you don't have the words. |
Initial Evidence | Acts 2:4 | A physical sign that confirms the internal filling. |
Spiritual Growth | Jude 1:20 | Building yourself up in your most holy faith. |
Is it for Everyone?
One of the most common myths is that you have to be "perfect" to receive this gift. The truth? The disciples were hiding in an upper room, full of fear and questions, when the Spirit fell on them in Acts 2. God doesn't fill perfect people; He fills hungry people.
If you are a follower of Jesus, this "more" is available to you. It’s not about emotionalism; it’s about accessibility. Whether you’re attending a Wednesday night meal at FA Memphis or watching our stream from across the globe, the Holy Spirit is present and ready to empower you.
The "More" Life
The Baptism in the Holy Spirit leads to more. More joy. More boldness. More ability to pray. More wisdom for raising your kids in Cordova or Bartlett. It is a gift designed to help you live a "Boundless" life that isn't restricted by your own limited strength.
When we speak in tongues, we are participating in a biblical tradition that has spanned over 2,000 years. It connects the local believer in Memphis to a global family of millions who are all leaning into the same promise: "The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off" (Acts 2:39).
How to Take Your Next Step
If you’ve never experienced this and you're curious, start by simply asking. Luke 11:13 says, "If you then... know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!"
Practical Steps:
Ask: Pray a simple prayer: "Lord, I want everything You have for me. Fill me with Your Spirit."
Receive: Relax and trust. This is a gift of grace, not a reward for work.
Visit: Join us at First Assembly Memphis for a service or reach out to our team. We would love to pray with you and answer your questions.
Are you ready to experience the "more" that God has for your life?
Want to go deeper?
If you're in Memphis, Cordova, Arlington, Bartlett, or the 901, we would love to welcome you in person for worship and community: 🌐 www.famemphis.org
Outside the area or unable to attend locally? Join our global online church community for discipleship and connection: 🌐 www.boundlessonlinechurch.org
Need prayers? Text us day or night at 1-901-213-7341. (Note: This line is for prayer and pastoral support, not emergency services. If you are in immediate danger or need urgent help, please call 911.)
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