The Interpretation of Tongues: Why This Gift Matters More Than Most People Realize

The interpretation of tongues is one of the least taught and most misunderstood gifts of the Spirit. It is rarely explained, often ignored, and frequently assumed to be optional.

Scripture disagrees.

Without interpretation, tongues remain private.
With interpretation, tongues become edifying for the whole body.

Paul treats this gift not as secondary—but as essential whenever tongues are expressed publicly.

The Biblical Foundation

Paul pairs the two gifts intentionally:

“To another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues.”
(1 Corinthians 12:10)

He later adds:

“Therefore, one who speaks in a tongue should pray that he may interpret.”
(1 Corinthians 14:13)

Interpretation is not an add-on.
It is the necessary companion to public tongues.

What Interpretation of Tongues Is

Interpretation of tongues is:

• Spirit-given understanding of a message spoken in tongues

• Communicated in the common language of the hearers

• Meant to edify, instruct, or exhort

Interpretation is not translation.

A translation is word-for-word.
An interpretation conveys meaning and intent.

This is why interpretations vary in length and phrasing while still remaining faithful.

What Interpretation of Tongues Is Not

Interpretation is not:

• A linguistic ability

• A learned skill

• Guesswork or emotional response

• Automatic for everyone who speaks in tongues

It is a gift, not a technique.

How Interpretation Functions in the Church

When tongues are spoken publicly:

1. There should be silence

2. An interpretation should follow

3. The church should be edified

“If any speak in a tongue… let someone interpret.”
(1 Corinthians 14:27)

If no interpretation comes, Paul is clear:

“Let each of them keep silent in church and speak to himself and to God.”
(1 Corinthians 14:28)

This preserves both freedom and order.

Interpretation and Prophecy

Paul makes a striking comparison:

“The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless someone interprets.”
(1 Corinthians 14:5)

Why?

Because interpreted tongues function like prophecy—they reveal God’s heart in an understandable way.

Tongues + interpretation = prophetic edification.

Who Can Interpret?

• The same person who speaks in tongues may interpret

• A different person may interpret

• Interpretation may come immediately or shortly after

What matters is not who interprets—but that interpretation occurs.

Paul assumes interpretation is available within the body.

Interpretation Requires Discernment

Not every impression is interpretation.

Interpretations should:

• Align with Scripture

• Reflect God’s character

• Build up rather than confuse

• Avoid manipulation or fear

Interpretations are weighed—just like prophecy.

Common Abuses and Errors

Interpretation is mishandled when:

• Tongues are spoken repeatedly without interpretation

• Interpretations are used to direct personal decisions

• Emotional intensity replaces clarity

• Interpretation becomes theatrical or performative

Paul’s corrective was not suppression—but structure.

Why Interpretation Protects the Church

Interpretation:

• Prevents confusion

• Centers the body on God, not experience

• Keeps tongues from becoming elitist

• Ensures public worship remains edifying

Without interpretation, public tongues can alienate newcomers.
With interpretation, worship becomes inclusive.

Interpretation and Love

As with every gift, love governs interpretation.

“Let all things be done for building up.”
(1 Corinthians 14:26)

If interpretation draws attention to the interpreter rather than God, something has gone wrong.

Growing in the Gift of Interpretation

• Stay rooted in Scripture

• Pray for clarity, not drama

• Practice humility and restraint

• Submit interpretations to discernment

• Value edification over impact

Interpretation grows in safe, accountable environments.

Final Thoughts

Tongues reveal mysteries to God.
Interpretation reveals meaning to people.

Together, they reflect God’s desire for both intimacy and understanding.

Paul did not silence tongues.
He insisted they be understood.

When interpretation is honored, tongues fulfill their purpose:

• Worship that reaches heaven

• Words that build the Church

And that balance is exactly what the Spirit intended.