There are two Greek terms that appear in the New Testament regarding speaking in tongues or other languages. Glossolalein, speaking in tongues (1 Corinthians 13:1) and xenolalian, (Acts 2) speaking in foreign languages. As you can see, speaking in tongues is one of the manifestations of the baptism in the Holy Spirit. The gift is important for several reasons:
- It helps us pray in the Spirit 1 Corinthians 14:1-15
- It helps bring rest to your soul when agitated Isaiah 28:11-12
- It edifies us 1 Corinthians 14:2, Jude 20
- It keeps us in the love of God Jude 20-21.
- It draws wisdom from God into your spirit 1 Corinthians 2:7
- It helps you pray the perfect will of God. 1 Corinthians 14:14
- It expresses faith 1 Corinthians 14:16-17, Romans 8:26=27
- It is connected to the exercise of spiritual authority Mark 16:17-18
- It is connected to the gift of interpretation of tongues verse 13
- It is a visible sign of the Holy Spirit Acts 2, 1 Corinthians 14:22