The Speaking Gifts

In The Speaking Gifts, Michael E.B. Maher examines the three gifts of the Holy Spirit through which God speaks to the church: prophecy, different kinds of tongues, and the interpretation of tongues.

Prophecy is speaking as the Holy Spirit gives utterance, on the spur of the moment. It edifies, exhorts, and comforts the church. Prophecy can be general (to the congregation), personal (to individuals, often revealing secrets of hearts), or through the ministry gift of prophet (which carries greater anointing and may include predictive elements). All prophecies must be tested against Scripture and the testimony of Jesus.

Different kinds of tongues is prophecy delivered in a language unknown to the speaker—either a human language or an angelic tongue. It serves as a sign to unbelievers. Unlike “other tongues” (given to all Spirit-baptized believers as a prayer language), this gift is given only to some.

Interpretation of tongues provides the meaning of a message given in tongues. Together, tongues and interpretation equal prophecy, edifying the church. The interpreter gives a summary, not a word-for-word translation.

Maher emphasizes that believers influence their anointing through zeal and preparation. He provides biblical examples (Agabus, Paul, Timothy) and practical guidelines for orderly church use, warning against quenching the Spirit or despising prophecies. Personal testimonies illustrate each gift’s operation.

Book 4 of 5: Gifts of the Church

Print length: 72 pages