Do Tongues Require Bypassing the Mind?

Those in charismatic circles who express skepticism and doubt about speaking in tongues are often told to shut their minds and allow God to work.

This is however contrary to the teachings of Paul who would never recommend prayers that bypass the mind as many charismatics do;

1 Corinthians 14:13-17 (NKJV)

Therefore let him who speaks in a tongue pray that he may interpret. For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful. What is the conclusion then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding. I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding. Otherwise, if you bless with the spirit, how will he who occupies the place of the uninformed say “Amen” at your giving of thanks, since he does not understand what you say? For you indeed give thanks well, but the other is not edified.

Exactly what does it mean to “bypass the mind”?

Throughout history, this practice has been associated with pagan religions. During the Greco-Roman mystery religions, utterances were commonly used to circumvent the mind and commune with demonic entities.

In the verse above, Paul uses a sarcastic tone to rebuke the Corinthians church for their attempt to imitate mindless pagan practices.

It is important to understand that the proper use of this gift involves both the mind and the spirit. The mind is central to true worship and communication with God. Paul teaches us that both the spirit and the mind must be engaged in prayer and worship.

Faith is not a mindless act but a response to the truth of God, rooted in understanding and conviction. Practices that bypass the mind are unbiblical and resemble pagan rituals rather than Christian worship.

The proper use of spiritual gifts always involves clarity, understanding, and the edification of others. As believers, we are called to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind (Matthew 22:37), making it crucial to avoid anything that undermines this command.