The Interpreter's Burden: Discernment and the Gift of Tongues

We’ve all witnessed the fervor surrounding spiritual gifts—the longing for manifestation, the desire to witness the tangible power of the Restoration. Yet, alongside this eagerness, a shadow of misunderstanding often falls, particularly concerning the gift of tongues. The recent video from Impact Video Ministries (IVM) offers a succinct reminder of a crucial principle: the gift of tongues is intrinsically linked to the gift of interpretation (1 Corinthians 14:2-19). It is a truth easily overlooked in the pursuit of spiritual experience, and one that demands careful consideration from those who would seek to understand and apply the principles of the gospel.

The Corinthian experience serves as a cautionary tale. Paul’s correction to the Saints in Corinth wasn't a denial of spiritual gifts, but a redirection towards order and edification. The exuberance of zealous believers, while admirable, can quickly become a source of confusion and even contention if not tempered by wisdom and the guidance of the Spirit. The desire to participate in the miraculous should never overshadow the responsibility to ensure that such participation benefits the entire body of Christ. As Moroni taught, “And that by my voice thy fear may be dried up, and that thou mayest be comforted” (Moroni 8:20). Fear, in this context, can refer to the fear of misusing or misunderstanding spiritual gifts.

The IVM video highlights the vital role of the interpreter. It's not simply about translating words; it’s about discerning the meaning intended for God. The interpreter bears a heavy responsibility—to seek the Spirit, to understand the speaker’s intent, and to convey that understanding to the congregation in a way that builds faith and strengthens testimonies. Without this vital component, the gift of tongues becomes a private conversation, valuable only to the speaker. The very purpose of gathering as Saints is to edify one another, and a language unknown to the majority cannot achieve that purpose without a divinely appointed interpreter.

Consider the implications for our own understanding of spiritual gifts. Are we prioritizing the *experience* of the gift over the *benefit* it provides to the community? Do we actively seek to cultivate the gift of interpretation, recognizing its equal importance to the gift of tongues? The Brethren have consistently emphasized the importance of discernment and prophetic guidance in all matters of faith. To pursue spiritual gifts without seeking this guidance is to wander in darkness, vulnerable to deception.

Furthermore, this principle extends beyond the formal setting of a sacrament meeting. The Spirit speaks to us individually, often in ways that require interpretation—a prompting to act, a feeling of conviction, a sudden understanding of a scripture. Learning to discern the voice of the Spirit, to interpret its nuances, is a lifelong pursuit, a constant refinement of our spiritual senses. It requires humility, diligence, and a unwavering commitment to truth.

President Kimball taught, “The ability to discern is a gift of heaven, and it is not given to those who seek only to please themselves.” (Ensign, May 1986, 64).

Let us, therefore, approach the gifts of the Spirit with reverence and a desire to serve. Let us seek not merely to speak in tongues, but to understand the message they convey, and to share that understanding with others for their edification and our collective progress.

Further Study: Consider studying 1 Corinthians 12-14 in greater depth, paying particular attention to Paul's instructions regarding order and discernment in the use of spiritual gifts. Reflect on instances in your own life where you have needed to interpret a prompting from the Spirit.

Submission Opportunity: We invite members of the community to share experiences and insights related to spiritual gifts and the importance of discernment. Submissions may be in the form of essays, testimonies, or original artwork.

Spirit-Led Prompt: Pray and ask for the guidance of the Spirit to help you identify areas where you can better cultivate the gift of discernment in your own life.