Christian Ethical Perspectives on Speaking in Tongues (glossolalia) as a Mandatory Requirement for Selecting a Church Leader

Speaking in tongues has a long history in the church, dating back to Christ’s apostles (Acts 2:4). While theologians like John Calvin, St. Augustine, and Chrysostom view it as outdated, Pentecostal and Charismatic Christians assert its relevance today. This belief drives many to attempt speaking in tongues, often interpreting their inability as a sign of not being fully born again or lacking the Holy Spirit. Consequently, some Christians may imitate others to showcase their reception of the Holy Spirit. This qualitative analysis through interviews explored the Christian ethical perspectives on requiring this gift before one becomes a church leader. It argues that the ability to speak in tongues is a supernatural gift bestowed by the Holy Spirit, which cannot be acquired through human effort or training. Therefore, making it a prerequisite for church leaders risks encouraging imitation rather than a genuine spiritual experience. The paper contributes to the debate on speaking in tongues in the church. Keywords: Christian Ethics, Speaking In Tongue, Mandatory Requirement, Church Leader