Tongues as a sign

The Bible talks of tongues as an evidence and a gift. But it also talks of tongues as a sign. When Paul addresses the Corinthian church, he chides them for focusing too much on tongues. He then goes on to say that tongues are not merely to edify. It should be seen as a sign too (1Cor 14:22). A sign of displeasure from God. A sign to unbelievers that they are going to be judged. A sign not of redemption but of destruction. Just like the resurrection of Jesus was also a sign that God has fixed a day in which He will judge the whole world (Acts 17:31), similarly tongues was also a sign that in spite of strange happenings and phenomena, people just refuse to turn to God by themselves. There is enough evidence of God in the natural sphere. God is even drawing their attention through supernatural means. Yet they have hardened their hearts. There is no one who seeks God, not even one. God has to chose. God has to call. He has to justify. He has to draw some to Himself. If not, everyone is doomed. He has to do a double work. Not just to provide a solution for sin. But to soften people's hearts to respond to that solution. His mercy is great.