Speaking in Tongues

In this Pastors Choice message, Pastor Tyler Lynde takes on one of the most misunderstood and debated gifts of the Holy Spirit: speaking in tongues. Rather than letting fear, hype, mockery, or past church experiences shape the conversation, Tyler turns to 1 Corinthians 14 and lets Scripture set the tone. Paul’s teaching gives a balanced framework: personal tongues is prayer to God that builds up the believer, while public tongues must be interpreted so the church can be strengthened. Above every gift, love remains the true measure of spiritual maturity. Tyler also shares personally about a season nearly 25 years ago when a complete nervous breakdown left him unable to think clearly, read Scripture normally, drive, play with his children, or carry on ordinary conversations. In that place of mental and emotional exhaustion, praying in tongues became a lifeline. It allowed him to remain in communion with God when his mind had no words left to offer. That testimony gives a deeply pastoral lens to the topic, showing tongues not as a spiritual status symbol or strange spectacle, but as a gift that can sustain prayer, praise, and connection with God in moments of weakness. From there, Tyler traces the biblical story of language from Eden’s communion, to Babel’s confusion, to Pentecost’s Spirit-filled reversal, where people from many nations heard the gospel in their own languages. He explains why tongues should not be treated as proof that someone is saved, filled with the Spirit, or more spiritual than another believer. He also challenges the idea that speaking in tongues is inherently weird, irrational, or out of control. According to Paul, spiritual gifts are meant to operate with humility, order, doctrine, and the goal of building up the church. Tyler addresses practical questions for anyone who desires this gift: Do you need to be afraid? Will you lose control? Do you have to turn off your mind? Do you need gimmicks or pressure to “prime the pump”? His encouragement is simple: ask, seek, knock, persevere in prayer, devote time to praise, and trust the Father who gives good gifts to His children. Whether you already pray in tongues, have questions, or are cautious because of past teaching or experience, this message invites a Scripture-first, love-centered, Spirit-dependent approach to the gifts of God. We are Trinity Community Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. Subscribe to our Podcast & YouTube channel to find past sermons, classes, interviews, and more! Find us on Facebook & Instagram