Speaking In Tongues Does Not Equal Salvation.

[geekette]

Let me throw a monkey wrench into all of this discussion.

I spoke in tongues beginning in 1977 and for decades afterwards. I should note that I spoke in tongues for months before my parents would allow me to be baptized in Jesus' Name. (As for repentance, I think I have a much clearer and keener idea of what it means now, but I'm also acutely aware that depending on the beliefs, some things that Group A considers to be sinful are not considered so by Group B.)

These days, I consider myself very much on the outside. Depending on the day, I vacillate between agnosticism and atheism. But I can tell you that as I was making my journey out of Christianity and doubting day in and day out, I could still speak in tongues. And, I daresay, I still can now if I wanted to. (And I did, just now, to see if I still could. And I don't plan on doing so again any time soon because I don't want to offend people on this board.)

I am certain that there are people in churches who do not actually believe, but you'd think do from the fact that they're speaking and shouting in tongues at every church service. I am certain there are unrepentant, sinful tongue speakers in church every Sunday. Maybe even the pillars of your church. Maybe even your pastors.

My point? Just because someone can speak in tongues doesn't mean that they're a believer or saved. Tongues is a lousy marker for belief and salvation.