TONGUES AND PRAYER LANGUAGE

TOPIC: MISSIONARY 200-15 SUBJECT: TONGUES AND PRAYER LANGUAGE DATE: November 15, 2005

That the following policy regarding tongues and prayer language of missionary candidates be adopted:

GLOSSOLALIA

Related Coverage

IMB trustee chairman Hatley sends ‘open letters’ to Southern Baptist pastors, laity explaining decisions Letters from the board of trustees chairman BAPTISM GUIDELINE Position Paper Concerning the IMB Guideline on Baptism TONGUES AND PRAYER LANGUAGE Position Paper Concerning the IMB Policy on Glossolalia Definition of a church

1. The New Testament speaks of a gift of glossolalia that generally is considered to be a legitimate language of some people group.

2. The New Testament expression of glossolalia as a gift had specific uses and conditions for its exercise in public worship.

3. In term of worship practices, the majority of Southern Baptist churches do not practice glossolalia. Therefore, if glossolalia is a public part of his or her conviction and practice, the candidate has eliminated himself or herself from being a representative of the IMB of the SBC.

PRAYER LANGUAGE

1. Prayer language as commonly expressed by those practitioners is not the same as the biblical use of glossolalia.

2. Paul’s clear teaching is that prayer is to be made with understanding.

3. Any spiritual experience must be tested by the Scriptures.

4. In terms of general practice, the majority of Southern Baptists do not accept what is referred to as “private prayer language.” Therefore, if “private prayer language” is an ongoing part of his or her conviction and practice, the candidate has eliminated himself or herself from being a representative of the IMB of the SBC.

APPLICATION

1. This policy is not retroactive.

2. Any exceptions to the above policy must be reviewed by the staff and the Process Review Committee.