However, since it is quite evident that we still see through a glass darkly, it is also obvious that
that which is perfect has not yet come. Hence, prophecies, tongues, and knowledge have not
passed away or ceased to exist.
Knowledge has not vanished away. Prophecies have not failed or ceased to exist, and,
therefore, tongues have not ceased. However, one of these days, tongues will cease. In
heaven there will be no necessity for tongues because that which is perfect will have come (1
Cor. 13:10).
1 CORINTHIANS 14:2
2 For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for
no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries.
Let's look at Moffatt's translation of First Corinthians 14:2.
1 CORINTHIANS 14:2 (Moffatt)
2 ... For he who speaks in a 'tongue' addresses God, not man; no one understands him;
he is talking of divine secrets in the Spirit.
When we get to heaven, there won't be any more mysteries or secrets, so it won't be
necessary to speak with tongues. As long as we are this side of heaven, however, tongues will
not cease.
Are Tongues Available for All Believers?
As we said before, there is more to being filled with the Holy Spirit than speaking in tongues;
but speaking in tongues is the initial evidence of being filled with the Holy Spirit.
There are those who purport to believe in speaking in tongues but do not feel that tongues are
necessary for all believers. However, the baptism in the Holy Spirit is for all those who believe
(Acts 2:38,39); therefore, speaking in tongues as an evidence of the Spirit's infilling is also for
all those who believe.
These who say that speaking in tongues is not necessary for all believers use the scripture in
First Corinthians 12:30 which says, ". . . do all speak with tongues?. . ." to prove their
argument.
However, one could take a part of a verse of Scripture, or even one entire verse of Scripture
out of its setting and try to prove anything with it. But we have to read the entire context to see
what the writer is talking about.
To learn what Paul is talking about in First Corinthians 12:30, ". . . do all speak with tongues? .
. ." we must read the entire context in First Corinthians chapter 12.
Having done that, then let's look specifically at verses 27 through 30.
1 CORINTHIANS 12:27-30
27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.
28 And God hath set some in the church, first APOSTLES, secondarily PROPHETS,
thirdly TEACHERS, after that MIRACLES, then GIFTS OF HEALINGS, HELPS,
GOVERNMENTS,