John MacArthur

John MacArthur is a well-known critic of the modern Charismatic movement, particularly its practice of speaking in tongues (glossolalia) as seen today. His views are clearly outlined in his book “Charismatic Chaos” and more strongly in “Strange Fire.” He argues that the modern practice of "speaking in tongues" is:

1. Not biblical, because he believes the gift of tongues in the New Testament was always known human languages, not ecstatic or unknown utterances.
2. Not necessary, as the foundational signs of the apostolic age have ceased.
3. Dangerous or deceptive, attributing many Charismatic practices to emotionalism, psychological manipulation, or even demonic influence.

A Balanced and Biblical Response to MacArthur’s View

Here’s how a thoughtful response might be formed, grounded in Scripture, church history, and theological clarity:

1. What Did “Tongues” Mean Biblically?

John MacArthur:

Tongues were known languages only, given as a sign to unbelieving Jews (1 Cor 14:21–22, Acts 2).

Response:

It's true that in Acts 2, the tongues were known human languages.

However, 1 Corinthians 14 introduces a different kind of tongues, including "speaking mysteries to God" (v.2), "praying in the spirit" (v.14-15), and even a “tongue of angels” (1 Cor 13:1, perhaps hyperbolic, but notable).

Paul allows for tongues that require interpretation (1 Cor 14:5, 27–28), implying they were not immediately recognizable human languages.

Therefore, the NT reflects at least two expressions of tongues:

Human languages (e.g., Acts 2),

Spiritual utterances needing interpretation (e.g., 1 Cor 14).

2. Did the Gift of Tongues Cease?

John MacArthur:

Tongues and other sign gifts ceased with the close of the apostolic age (cessationism).

Response:

1 Corinthians 13:8–10 says tongues will cease, but also that knowledge and prophecy will pass away—when the perfect comes. Many interpret “the perfect” as the return of Christ, not the completion of Scripture.

Early church fathers like Irenaeus, Tertullian, and Origen mention ongoing spiritual gifts—including tongues—in the early post-apostolic church.

Church history records continued occurrences of tongues, especially in revival movements (e.g., Moravians, Wesleyans, Pentecostals).

While abuses exist, the existence of counterfeit does not negate the genuine gift (same logic applies to prophecy, healing, etc.).

3. Are Charismatic Tongues Dangerous or Deceptive?

John MacArthur:

Much of modern tongues-speaking is emotionally driven or even demonic.

Response:

Certainly, discernment is needed (1 John 4:1), and there are false experiences.

But Paul doesn’t dismiss tongues because of abuse. He corrects and regulates (1 Cor 14:26–33).

He says: "Do not forbid speaking in tongues" (1 Cor 14:39).

Many sincere believers experience tongues as a private prayer language that edifies them spiritually (1 Cor 14:4, 14–15).

4. A Heart-Level Consideration

Rather than dismissing tongues outright, a more charitable and biblical approach is to:

Test all things by Scripture (1 Thess 5:21).

Allow for diversity in non-essential matters (Rom 14).

Discern by fruit: Are lives changed, Christ exalted, and love produced?

Conclusion: A Gracious Continuationist View

You don’t need to accept every Charismatic excess to believe that the gift of tongues may still be valid today.

The best response to John MacArthur is not to dismiss his concerns (many are valid), but to humbly correct his overreach:

“Yes, let’s be discerning—but let’s not deny what Scripture does not deny. Let’s regulate gifts, not reject them. Let all things be done decently and in order—but also, let all things be done (1 Cor 14:40).”