The question above has been a raging debate among believers for centuries. I have heard and read from those who believe the Holy Spirit can baptize a believer without necessarily speaking in other tongues. Those in this camp opine that speaking in tongues is not compulsory. Where do we turn to get answers to these questions? The bible of course. We cannot approach this issue emotionally, but biblically.

Speaking in other tongues is a sign that MUST follow everyone who believes in Jesus.

In Mark 16:17, Jesus says, "And THESE SIGNS shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; THEY SHALL SPEAK WITH NEW TONGUES;". These are the very words of Jesus here pre pentecost.

Let's unpack this powerful text by asking vital questions and answering them. What is a sign? A sign is an identifying marker or symbol. It helps in identifying something. Jesus mentioned several signs that must follow a believer in that text but our focus here is speaking with other tongues.

If speaking in tongues is a sign ( an identifying marker/ emblem) that will follow those that believe( In Jesus), that means it is not optional for the believers. Jesus did not say "These signs may follow those that believe...they might speak with new tongues". That is not what Jesus said.

The Christ himself spoke using a tone of compulsion, "They SHALL speak with new tongues". In English, "shall" is not a word that denotes option or uncertainty. It is a strong word denoting intentionality and compulsion. Why are we debating what is clear in scriptures? That you are yet to have this pentecostal experience does not make it optional because the bible did not say it is.

Are you a believer in Christ Jesus? Did you accept him by believing in his finished work on the cross? If yes, then, one of the signs that should follow you is speaking in tongues which comes when you get baptized in the Holy Spirit. That is the undebatable initial evidence. No need to be emotional about the issue, we only need to be biblical about it.