This is a good question.
In
Acts 2 that you cited you will notice in:
v 6 it says " every man heard them speak in their own language."
v 8 says " And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born."
This shows that tongues = known languages.
v9-11 lists some of the nationalities/dialects that were represented and v. 11 again states "...we do hear them speak in
our tongues."
v.11 the purpose was to preach "the wonderful works of God".
In
I Cor 13 and 14 tongues is the least desired gift and not encouraged.
14:4 says that "he that speaks in an unknown tongue edifieth (lifts up) himself. v. 5 goes on to say that prophesy is prefered because it edifies (lifts up) the church.
v. 9 " so likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye speak into the air."
v 10 refers to "so many kinds of voices in the world" again implying that tongues = languages spoken in the world.
v.11 says that if those listening don't understand the meaning of what is being said, the one speaking is like a barbarian.
v12 says that if you're zealous for a gift, seek a gift that would edify the church. [which is to say don't seek tongue, v 4-5 states tongues does not edify the church]
v.14 says that praying in an unknown tongue is unfruitful.
The rules of speaking in tongues are:
1. No more than 3 people can speak (v27)
2. There must be an interpreter present (v 27-28)
3. Women must keep silent. (v 34)
" for God is not the author of confusion."
Therefor, when a Missionary,on a foriegn mission field, using an interpreter, preaches the "wonderful works of God" so that those listening can hear, repent of their sin, trust Jesus Christ as Lord and escape hell, that is Biblical tongues.
Tongues was not the unitelligable utterings that has become popular in recent decades as evidenced by the scripture previously cited.
Now the greatest gift, the bible says is Charity -
I Cor 13. Isn't it curious that so many seek the least of the spiritual gifts (tongues) and so few seek the greatest (charity)?.
I Cor 13:6 states that charity "rejoiceth in the truth."
and seeing that charity begins at home, it is imperitive that we be honest with ourselves---
Question: Why would anyone want to stand before a group of people an babble untillegable utterences and call it a spiritual gift?
Answer: "For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowlege.
Romans 10:2
For they being ignorant of God's righteousness and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted to the righteousness of God."
Romans 10:3
It's our human nature to do things out of pride. But we have to make sure we're serving God his way in truth so that "...in all things he [Christ] might have the pre-eminence."
Col 1:18
I Cor 13:8 talks about the failure or ending of all the other spiritual gifts except for Charity (never faileth). and v10 goes on to say: "But that when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away."
Well we have the perfect, complete Word of God.
II Peter 1:19 calls it a "more sure word of prophecy." v 20-21 go on to say that its not from man, but from God. "...holy men of God spake as they were moved by the HOly Ghost."
We have the written Word of God to read and study and learn of the "wonderful works of God." They did not have that at the time of Pentecost. So God met their need a different way, with signs a wonders.
The Bible is clear in its teaching that in the day of judgement we will give an account of every idle word that is spoken. We are responsible for every word that passes our lips. Therefore it behooves us to know what we are saying.
The most precious of all gifts is the gift of eternal life that we have through Jesus Christ. This gift simple requires "repentence towards God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ."
"Faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the Word of God."
Romans 10:17
"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation."
"For by grace are ye save through faith and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God, not of works, lest any man should boast."
Ephesians 2:8-9
I would encourage you to get into a serious Bible church that preaches and teaches the whole counsel of God. And ask God to open his Word to you in truth, despite any preconcieved ideas that you may have had.
God expects us to worship him in TRUTH. And he will show you that truth if you really want it.
"
and ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart."
Jeremiah 29:13
I hope this helps.
