In this deep-dive episode of Mining Scripture, we slow down and examine the gift of tongues verse by verse through the New Testament. What did the apostles actually do when they spoke in tongues at Pentecost, with Cornelius’ household, and at Ephesus? Were these real, known human languages or unintelligible utterances? Why does Paul call tongues “a sign… not for believers but for unbelievers”, 1 Corinthians 14:22, and how does Isaiah 28 shape our understanding?

We explore:

• How tongues functioned as a powerful missionary and cross-cultural sign during the gospel’s expansion — reversing the confusion of Babel.
• Paul’s clear regulations for order and edification in the church (only 2–3 speakers, interpretation required, or silence).
• Why Scripture never presents uninterpreted ecstatic speech as a private “prayer lang ...