Proverbs 6:19 says that God hates one who stirs up trouble among brothers. The subject of “charismatic practices” can be very divisive among the brethren and sisters. If we have to speak out on this, may we all speak the truth in love. I love Christ’s church and want to see it unified and not divided. We should stand on what His Word says.
The apostle Paul said in 1 Corinthians 14:37–40, “If anyone thinks he is a prophet or spiritual, he should recognize that what I write to you is the Lord’s command. But if anyone ignores this, he will be ignored. Therefore, my brothers, be eager to prophesy, and Do Not Forbid Speaking In [Other] Languages (emphasis mine). But everything must be done decently and in order.”
I would consider the recent statements and actions of the trustees of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary regarding private prayer language as forbidding speaking in other languages by the decision to not “knowingly employ professors or administrators who promote such practices (i.e. private prayer language).”
While some hold the view that certain gifts were no longer necessary after the New Testament was canonized, I don’t see that the teachings of the New Testament indicate that in any way. When men begin saying that only certain parts of the New Testament are valid and relevant to us in the present day, how long will it be before they decide that Jesus plus nothing else is still valid for salvation?
I have Southern Baptist, Presbyterian and nondenominational brothers and sisters in Christ who have a private prayer language. I personally do not. I don’t think that because I haven’t experienced it that their experience is not real. I do believe according to Paul that it is scriptural and that it edifies them. If it strengthens them in their faith, I am 100 percent for it.
Rick McLain
Alexander City, Ala.
Share with others: