What Does the Assemblies of God Believe About Speaking in Tongues? AG 101 for the 901
- Boundless Team
- May 19
- 3 min read
The Assemblies of God believes speaking in tongues is the initial physical evidence of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit. This spiritual experience, distinct from salvation, empowers believers for witnessing and deepens their personal prayer life, serving as a sign of God's presence and power today.
Understanding the Gift: The Baptism in the Holy Spirit
To understand speaking in tongues, we first look at the Baptism in the Holy Spirit. In the Assemblies of God tradition, we believe this is an experience available to every believer. It is not the same as being "born again" (salvation), but rather a subsequent filling that provides "power from on high" to live a bold Christian life.
In the 901, whether you are in Cordova, Bartlett, or downtown Memphis, we see this as a vital part of our walk with Christ. It is about being equipped for the mission God has given us, to reach our city and the world with the Gospel.
The Initial Physical Evidence: Why Tongues?
One of the most distinct beliefs in our fellowship is that when someone is baptized in the Holy Spirit, the initial physical sign is speaking in tongues. This means the person speaks in a language they have not learned, as the Holy Spirit gives them the words.
We see this pattern throughout the book of Acts:
Pentecost: The first believers were filled and spoke in tongues (Acts 2:4).
Cornelius’s House: Gentiles received the Spirit and spoke in tongues (Acts 10:44-46).
Ephesus: New believers spoke in tongues and prophesied (Acts 19:1-6).
Definition Block: Core Terms
To help you navigate these concepts, here are brief definitions:
Term | Biblical Meaning |
Baptism in the Holy Spirit | A spiritual empowerment distinct from and following salvation. |
Initial Physical Evidence | The first outward sign (tongues) that a believer has received Spirit baptism. |
Prayer Language | Using tongues in private devotion to communicate with God (1 Cor 14:2). |
The Gift of Tongues | A public message in tongues that requires interpretation for the church's benefit. |
Is Speaking in Tongues Required for Salvation?
This is a common question we hear at FA Memphis. The answer is a clear no. Salvation is a gift of grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone. You do not need to speak in tongues to be saved, to be a member of the church, or to be loved by God.
Speaking in tongues is a gift for the believer's empowerment, not a requirement for their eternity. It is an invitation to deeper intimacy and greater strength in your daily witness.
Three Purposes for Tongues
According to the Bible and our Mission and Vision, there are three primary ways tongues function in the life of a believer:
A Sign to the Believer: It serves as personal confirmation that you have been filled with the Holy Spirit.
A Private Prayer Language: It allows you to pray beyond your own understanding, edifying your spirit (1 Corinthians 14:4).
A Public Message: In a church gathering, someone may speak in tongues followed by an interpretation so that everyone can be encouraged.
How to Seek the Baptism in the Holy Spirit
If you are curious or feel a tug on your heart to experience more of God’s power, we encourage you to seek Him in prayer. There is no formula or "magic" way to receive. It is a gift from a Father who loves you.
Ask: Simply ask God to fill you with His Spirit.
Believe: Have faith that He wants to give you this gift (Luke 11:13).
Yield: Allow the Spirit to lead your words and your heart.
Whether you are joining us in person or through Boundless Online Church, we are here to pray with you as you take this step.
Life Takeaway: Power for the 901 and Beyond
The goal of speaking in tongues is never the experience itself; it is the transformation that follows. When we are filled with the Spirit, we have more courage to serve our neighbors in Memphis, more patience for our families, and more love for the hurting. It turns our focus outward to a world that needs Jesus.
Practical Steps for Growth
Study the Word: Read Acts 2 and 1 Corinthians 12–14 to see how the early church operated in the Spirit.
Join a Community: Visit our Events page to find a Life Group where you can ask questions safely.
Pray Specifically: Ask God to empower you for a specific task this week, sharing your faith, serving a friend, or overcoming a struggle.
Want to go deeper?
If you're in Memphis, Cordova, Arlington, Bartlett, or the 901, we would love to welcome you in person: 🌐 www.famemphis.org
Outside the area? Join our online church community: 🌐 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.)
You are not alone.
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