Speaking in Tongues: What the Bible Actually Teaches. Few topics in modern Christianity stir as much excitement—and confusion—as the gift of tongues. In some churches, it’s elevated as a badge of spiritual superiority. In others, it’s written off entirely as first-century relic. The truth, as always, is not found in our experiences or emotional responses but in the Word of God. So, what does the Bible actually say about speaking in tongues?