Gifts of tongues and prophecy
Acts 2:1–4 presents one of the most dramatic moments in the history of the Church: the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Luke records how the disciples were filled with the Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. From the very beginning, the Apostolic Church was marked by Spirit-empowered experiences such as speaking in tongues and prophecy.
Later in Acts 19:2–6, Paul encounters believers in Ephesus and asks a striking question: “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” After laying hands on them, the Holy Spirit comes upon them, and they speak in tongues and prophesy. These passages suggest that receiving the Holy Spirit—and the manifestation of spiritual gifts—was central to early Christian life.
However, not all Christians agree that these gifts are still active today. Cessationists, including influential theologians such as John Calvin, argue that gifts like tongues and prophecy ended with the Apostolic age. This article argues otherwise. By examining Scripture, church history, and theological reflection, this article contends that the gifts of tongues and prophecy continue to operate in the Church today, while also fairly engaging the cessationist position.
What Is Cessationism?
Cessationism is the belief that certain supernatural gifts of the Holy Spirit—especially tongues and prophecy—ceased after the Apostolic era. Proponents argue that these gifts were primarily meant to authenticate the apostles and lay the foundation of the Church.
Prophecy as Foundational Revelation
One group of cessationists argues that prophecy in both the Old and New Testaments was infallible revelation from God. Since prophecy was foundational to the Church (Ephesians 2:20), they argue that once the foundation was laid, prophecy was no longer necessary. Consequently, the command to “earnestly desire spiritual gifts” (1 Corinthians 14:1) is viewed as historically limited to the early centuries of Christianity.
The “Perfect” in 1 Corinthians 13
Another major argument comes from 1 Corinthians 13:8–12, especially verse 10: “When the perfect comes, the partial will pass away.” Some scholars, such as Daniel Wallace and James Scott, interpret “the perfect” (τέλειον) as either the completion of the biblical canon or a delayed return of Christ, concluding that spiritual gifts have ceased.
Others, like McDougall, point out that the meaning of τέλειον remains debated. Does it refer to the closing of Scripture—or the future consummation at Christ’s return? This ambiguity weakens the argument for definitive cessation.
Also Read The Humanity and Divinity of Jesus Christ: Understanding the Mystery of the Incarnation
Silence of the Early Church Fathers
A third argument comes from the relative silence of some early church fathers (AD 100–400), such as Origen, regarding tongues. Some conclude that this silence implies the gifts had already ceased. However, absence of discussion does not necessarily prove absence of experience, especially during periods when the Church faced persecution or theological consolidation.
The Manifestation of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament
The New Testament consistently portrays the Holy Spirit as actively at work in the life of the Church. Believers experience the Spirit’s indwelling, guidance, fruit, and gifts.
Paul provides multiple lists of spiritual gifts (Romans 12:6–8; 1 Corinthians 12:8–10; 1 Corinthians 12:28–30), indicating their importance in church life. Through these gifts, the apostles performed powerful works:
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Peter and John healed a man crippled from birth (Acts 3:1–10)
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Peter raised Tabitha from the dead (Acts 9:32–43)
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Paul raised Eutychus after a fatal fall (Acts 20:7–12)
Prophecy is also widespread in the New Testament. Agabus foretold a severe famine (Acts 11:28). Philip’s daughters prophesied (Acts 21:8–9), Judas and Silas encouraged believers prophetically (Acts 15:32), and John received prophetic revelation in the book of Revelation.
Additionally, both Jews and Gentiles spoke in tongues after receiving the Holy Spirit (Acts 10:44–46; Acts 19:1–7), demonstrating that these gifts were not limited to one group or moment.
Spiritual Gifts Beyond the Apostolic Age
Church history provides compelling evidence that the gifts of the Spirit did not end with the apostles.
The Azusa Street Revival
The Azusa Street Revival (1906–1909) in Los Angeles is one of the most significant modern outpourings of the Holy Spirit. Characterized by speaking in tongues, prophecy, and mass conversions, it mirrors the events of Acts 2. While often associated with Los Angeles, historical accounts suggest similar movements occurred earlier in India.
McGee records instances in India where students—including young children—spoke in tongues during prayer gatherings, notably at a CMS boarding school in 1906.
The East African Revival
Closer to home, the East African Revival (beginning around 1930) powerfully impacted Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya. Revivalists emphasized repentance, holiness, prayer, and the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Speaking in tongues and extended prayer were common experiences among believers.
While there may have been periods in church history with minimal recorded manifestations, this should not be interpreted as divine silence or cessation—much like the intertestamental period did not mean God had permanently stopped speaking.
The Role of Tongues and Prophecy in the Body of Christ
Before His ascension, Jesus promised the Holy Spirit as a Helper and Empowerer (Acts 1:8). Once filled with the Spirit, the disciples boldly preached, healed the sick, spoke in tongues, and performed miracles.
Tongues and Prayer
Romans 8:26 teaches that the Spirit helps believers in prayer, interceding with groanings beyond words. Scholars note that this “groaning” reflects deep spiritual communion, especially in times of suffering. Speaking or praying in tongues can serve as an expression of heartfelt dependence on God beyond human language.
Edification of the Church
Paul explains that speaking in tongues edifies the individual, while prophecy edifies the Church (1 Corinthians 14:4). The Greek term οἰκοδομεῖ implies building, strengthening, and reinforcing faith. Both gifts, therefore, serve complementary roles in spiritual growth.
Prophecy as Guidance and Encouragement
Prophecy not only reveals God’s will but also exhorts, comforts, and teaches. In Acts 13:2, prophetic revelation guided the Church to set apart Paul and Barnabas for mission. In Acts 27:22–25, Paul’s prophetic assurance brought hope and courage during a deadly storm.
Scripture also warns about false prophets (Matthew 24:24), which implies the continued existence of genuine prophecy that must be discerned—not denied.
Do Tongues and Prophecy Still Operate Today?
Historical Evidence
Cessationism emerged prominently during the Reformation, with John Calvin (1509–1564) as a key figure. Yet major global revivals—including Azusa Street and the East African Revival—occurred after cessationist theology developed. This strongly suggests that the gifts did not cease.
Biblical Necessity
The Church today still needs edification, encouragement, guidance, and comfort, just as the early Church did. Paul’s teaching on prophecy and tongues addresses ongoing spiritual needs, not temporary ones.
If the Church continues to face suffering, mission, persecution, and moral challenges, then the Spirit’s empowering gifts remain relevant.
Conclusion
Scripture, church history, and lived Christian experience collectively point toward the continuation of the gifts of tongues and prophecy. While cessationism raises important theological concerns, it does not adequately account for biblical teaching or historical evidence.
Rather than denying these gifts, the Church is called to discern, test, and steward them faithfully—always in submission to Scripture and for the edification of the body of Christ.