Spiritual gifts
The Spiritual Gift of Interpretation of Tongues
Helping unusual speech serve understanding
The gift of interpretation is the Spirit-given ability to make a message spoken in tongues understandable to the church, so everyone present can be built up. Paul pairs it with tongues in 1 Corinthians 12:10. Christians hold different convictions about whether these gifts continue today.
“Therefore, the one who speaks in a tongue should pray that he may interpret.”
What it is
Paul lists "the interpretation of tongues" as its own gift, right after tongues (1 Corinthians 12:10). When someone speaks in a tongue in a church gathering, no one understands without help (1 Corinthians 14:2). Interpretation puts the message into words the church can understand, so others can say "Amen" and be built up (1 Corinthians 14:16-17).
The Greek word can mean translation or explanation, so an interpretation may give the sense of a message more than a word-for-word rendering. Paul treats interpretation as essential whenever tongues are used in public worship.
Where Scripture shows it
Everything Paul says about interpretation comes in 1 Corinthians 12 and 14. The Corinthians were eager for spiritual gifts, and Paul steered them toward gifts that build up others (1 Corinthians 14:12). "He who prophesies is greater than one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets so that the church may be edified" (1 Corinthians 14:5).
His guidelines are specific. Two or three at most should speak in tongues, one at a time, "and someone must interpret" (1 Corinthians 14:27). Whatever believers bring when they gather, it "must be done to build up the church" (1 Corinthians 14:26).
What it can look like
- In churches that practice this gift, a message in tongues during worship is followed by someone giving its meaning in the common language.
- Leaders make sure interpretations fit Scripture and happen in order.
- A person who speaks in tongues asks God for the ability to interpret.
- Interpretations are brief and humble, and they keep attention on God.
What to watch for
- Confusing this gift with interpreting the Bible, which every Christian can grow in.
- Presenting your own opinions as the meaning of a tongue.
- Treating an interpretation as equal to Scripture.
Ways to serve with it
- Ask your pastor what your church believes about tongues and interpretation before pursuing this gift.
- Weigh any interpretation you give against Scripture, and welcome your leaders' correction.
- Study 1 Corinthians 12 through 14 as one passage, so you see Paul's concern for love and order.
- Honor believers who see these gifts differently.
Related gifts
Holy habits that fit this gift
These practices can help you steward this gift over time.
Frequently asked questions
Is the gift of interpretation the same as interpreting the Bible?
No. In 1 Corinthians 12 and 14, interpretation means making a message spoken in tongues understandable to the church. Interpreting Scripture well is something all of us can grow in (2 Timothy 2:15), and it's closer to the gifts of teaching and knowledge.
Can someone interpret their own tongue?
Yes. Paul tells the person who speaks in a tongue to "pray that he may interpret" (1 Corinthians 14:13). He also describes someone else interpreting (1 Corinthians 14:27-28). Either way, the purpose is that the church understands and is built up.
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