The Beauty of Spiritual Language: Unveiling the Mystery of Speaking in Tongues

by Jack W. Hayford

Evangelical leaders have long noticed that Jack Hayfords approach to speaking in tongues doesnt fit the stereotype. He shuns sensational display, warns against excesses, and is never emotionally overwrought. This revised and expanded edition includes fourteen fresh teachings from Pastor Jack to further explain what he believes about spiritual languages. In sensible, biblical terms he describes how tongues-speaking is neither gibberish nor emotional exuberance, but rather an intimate encounter with the heart of God. In a broad appeal that crosses denominational lines, Hayford makes a persuasive case for accepting tongues as a normal part of a Christians experience.

Genres: Christian, Christian Living, Theology, Faith, Nonfiction

368 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1992

About the author

Jack Williams Hayford (born June 25, 1934) is an American author, Pentecostal minister, and Chancellor Emeritus of The King's University (formerly The King's College and Seminary). He is a former senior pastor of The Church On The Way in Van Nuys, California and was the fourth President of the International Church of the Foursquare Gospel. He is widely known for his past involvement in the Promise Keepers movement and for being a prolific author and songwriter, with over 600 hymns and choruses in his catalog. He is the author of the popular 1978 hymn "Majesty", which is rated as one of the top 100 contemporary hymns and performed and sung in churches worldwide.

Reviews

[Karla Renee Goforth Abreu · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book explains prayer and glossolalia from a personal and biblical perspective. There is no hype and no fervor, just a very well written book on the topic.

[Chip Watts · Rating 5 out of 5]

I downloaded this book to my phone and, over the past year, I’ve read it during down time in various locations (grocery store lines, plane flights, anywhere, anytime). At the time of the download, I had just read an excellent biography of the author, Pastor Jack Hayford, and I wanted to read more.

This was an scripture-packed, well-reasoned, scholarly and thorough study of speaking in tongues - which Pastor Jack called “Spiritual Language.”

I’ve looked up to Pastor Jack Hayford since I was in my late teens and learned that he was pastor and friend to one of my favorite Christian bands (2nd Chapter of Acts). He is the only nationally known Pentecostal/Charismatic leader for whom I’ve ever felt great respect and regard. The rest of those guys are more than a little loopy.

The book was a delight. I learned a lot and core beliefs of mine were deepened.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read another Jack Hayford book this year and LOVED it. So, I picked this one up and so admire his total NORMALCY. This book is not what some might think it would be--it's not super spiritual, weird or wild.

It's the teaching I wish I'd heard years ago on the subject, honestly. Simple and straightforward.

I will say, the second half of the book is simply some of his sermons on paper which was a bit harder to read than the first part.

[Callan Glascock · Rating 4 out of 5]

took a while but i finished it. a good read to think about. I don’t agree with Hayford on everything theologically, but it gave me a lot of information and clarity on a subject that I have barely thought about and if I had it was with fear of what I didn’t know. my main take away and prayer point is that God doesn’t give his children undesirable gifts!

[Heidi Honey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recommended Hayford's book Why Tongues? In my book, Musings Along Life's Journey. In this book, Hayford used Scripture and events in his life to share what's happened with the tussle over spiritual gifts and speaking in tongues. He brings things into balance by defining the essential Jesus, not arguing over doctrinal issues.

[Sarah Guscott · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this easier to read the second time around. Great teaching and still so much to take in. Towards the end, the language and style became harder to understand and more preacher like. Still a great read.

[Lisa Rosenow · Rating 4 out of 5]

interesting read I borrowed it from Angela

[Mark Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

My "Go-To" book for gifting to those who are open & seeking the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, as well as those who want to grow in the use & spiritual understanding of their prayer language. I have probably gifted at least 20 copies over the last 2 years.

[Pete · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best book I've ever seen on the topic (prayer language, speaking in tongues, etc.)
It's Biblical, gracious, clear, well-written. Jack Hayford at his pastoral best.

[Don Cooper · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent!

[Karin Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book. It really demystifies the Holy Spirit and speaking in tongues. He takes a Biblical perspective and shares his walk. Loved it.

[Wallace Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jack Hayford is a proven minister and well respect in Christian and non Christian circles. We should all pay attention when he presents the beauty and value of speaking in tongues.

[Bob Snook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book for those who have questions about the spirit filled life

[Barb Irwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book explained a lot of good things that come from speaking in known (but not to me) and unknown languages as led by the Spirit of God. It's a godly practice and an important gift.