Tongues of Corinth: A Jewish Answer to a Christian Mystery

In Tongues of Corinth, William Harmening takes a critical look at the modern charismatic doctrine of tongues against the backdrop of such ancient Jewish writings as the Mishnah and Talmud, and the historical record of the first-century synagogue. He begins by clearly defining the various doctrines and beliefs that guide the modern charismatic church on this issue, leads us through the historicval development of those doctrines, and finally, using the Rabbinical writings of ancient Judaism, provides a new and enlightening exposition of the New Testament scriptures that make mention of this purported supernatural phenomenon. His thought-provoking analysis demonstrates that the tongues of First Corinthians actually predate the New Testament narrative, and were employed by the Jews in their synagogue service long before Paul wrote his corrective discourse, thus refuting the view of tongues held by the modern charismatic church. For anyone who has struggled to understand this controversial aspect of modern Christian practice, Tongues of Corinth will serve as an important guide to further research and study.