I first became aware of speaking in tongues in the summer of 1970. I was sixteen and on a trip with some friends to Roanoke, Virginia, where we spent a night on the campus of Virginia Polytechnic Institute. The discussion turned to spiritual things and then to the phenomenon of speaking in other tongues. A copy of John Sherrill's "They Speak with Other Tongues" was produced, and I began my lifelong study of the subject. Less than two years later, I began to practice speaking in new tongues actively. My understanding of speaking in tongues has evolved from the traditional Pentecostal view to the freer Charismatic and finally to a broader - faith/spiritual definition.
The contents of this study include the material from "A Deeper Study on Devotional Tongues." This study itself was compiled over ten years of research into the history and practice of speaking in tongues and 50 years of actively practicing speaking with new tongues.
I ask that you read this study with an open mind. Please reserve judgment until you have reviewed the material and given the concepts and associated ideas a chance to solidify and interconnect within your mind. This is especially true if you are a Christian. Preconceived ideas and traditions always tend to hinder us from seeing the even obvious truth. Some have stopped seeking in the area of spiritual manifestations. Others think there is no more truth to be found. Initially, you may not see the truths presented. I would urge you, therefore, to assume the role of a seeker.