In the law it is written, With men of other tongues … will I speak;… and yet … will they not hear Me.
The use of tongues
Examine--
I. The quotation.
1. Its original force (Isa_28:11-12).
2. The apostle’s use of it indicates generally that the use of tongues was a disadvantage and not a blessing to the hearer.
II. The inference.
1. Tongues a sign--not for the believer who did not require it, but for the unbeliever, as a proof of Divine power.
2. Prophesying, on the contrary, could not benefit the unbeliever, who resisted the truth, but the believer by promoting his edification. (J. Lyth, D. D.)
God’s dealings with a rebellious people
Observe--
I.How God speaks to them.
1. By strange instrumentalities.
2. With a strange tongue.
II. How they persist in their impenitence.
1. They harden their hearts.
2. Refuse to listen.
3. Aggravate their guilt and punishment. (J. Lyth, D. D.)
Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe … but prophesying serveth … For them which believe.
Different modes of dealing with men
Hereare--
I. Different conditions of human mind.
1. Unbelief.
2. Faith.
II. Different requirements.
1. In the one case conviction.
2. In the other edification.
III. Different modes of dealing.
1. In the former there must be a sign of Divine power.
2. In the latter the proclamation of Divine truth. (J. Lyth, D. D.)
If therefore … all speak with tongues … will they not say that ye are mad?--
