How do I get the gift of tongues from the Holy Spirit?

Answer Request:
How do I get the gift of tongues from the Holy Spirit?

In this Kingdom dispensation, the program of Israel under the law, the purpose of the baptism of the Holy Spirit was so that the disciples could receive power to be witnesses of, and be able to testify with signs that Jesus was the Christ and Israel's Messiah. The Holy Spirit would empower them to speak in tongues, to prophecy, to bring things to remembrance (John 14:26) and provide "signs" or miracles to validate their message during the Acts period. Remember that for Jews to believe a prophet or an apostle, they required signs to validate the message. 

The sign of tongues, (which was the ability to speak in other discernable, and intelligible languages, and not unintelligible words), was so that the disciples could proclaim the gospel to Jews of many different nations who were in Jerusalem at that time for Shavuot (or the "Festival of Weeks"). Also Jews were to be God's instruments to take His word out to the nations, so intelligible languages would be useful for this purpose.

In this grace dispensation in which we live, we do not need to witness the gospel with signs and miracles. Today we have the completed word of God, the bible. Our faith is to rest in the fully revealed word of God, and not in signs and wonders, 2 Corinthians 5:7. Paul writes,

1 Cor.13:9 ... but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. 9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. 10 But when that which is perfect is come, [the completed word of God], then that which is in part shall be done away [signs and visible proofs].

Although God can choose to perform miracles today, it is not the focus of this program. We do not need to be endued with power from on high in order to validate our message and be effective witnesses. The gospel is received in faith and simple trust in the cross-work of Christ. There is no need to prove it with signs through the Holy Spirit.