Deciding whether or not to leave a church that teaches tithing can be challenging for a believer. Tithing is an important part of many Christian churches. But ultimately, leaving a pro-tithing church is up to the individual and their relationship with God. There is nothing wrong with questioning religious beliefs. Ultimately, whatever size of offering you choose will honor God.
Table of Contents
- Seek Spiritual Guidance
- Research Churches
- Consider Tithing Alternatives
- Frequently Asked Questions
- A Final Thought
- Outsmart the False Teachers
Do you belong to a church that teaches the Prosperity Gospel? Does your pastor press the issue of paying tithes? Maybe you keep encountering these religious tactics:
- Taking scriptures for paying tithes out of context.
- Giving sermons such as the 7 Benefits of Paying Tithes.
- Proclaiming not paying tithes is a sin.
Every time the collection plate (bucket) comes around, you get a knot in your stomach. It’s not because you’re selfish. You don’t feel that way because you don’t want to support the ministry. You get tense because you’re pressured, coerced, and guilt-shamed into tithing.
Perhaps the Holy Spirit has been dealing with you about tithing. You know something isn’t right about the tithe doctrine. Now, you have questions, such as:
- What does the New Testament say about paying tithes?
- What does Jesus say about paying tithes?
- What is paying tithes in the Bible?
- What does Paul say about tithes?
- When did tithes stop?
You’ve searched the Scriptures. The Holy Spirit led you to resources that speak the truth about tithes. You know you’re not obligated to pay 10 percent of your income to a church. Equipped with the truth of God’s word, you now ask:
Should I leave a church that teaches tithing?
THAT’S A COMMON question we receive. The following is a response to that question, and we hope it helps you if you’re struggling with this issue.
First, we won’t tell anyone whether to leave, remain, or join a church because that’s deeply personal. However, here are some things worth considering when making that decision.
Seek Spiritual Guidance
Seeking spiritual guidance through prayer is a fundamental aspect of the Christian journey. Prayer is our direct line of communication with God, allowing us to seek His wisdom, guidance, and understanding in all aspects of our lives. As the Bible tells us in James 1:5 (KJV):
“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”
To seek spiritual guidance through prayer, find a quiet place to focus your heart and mind on God. Begin by acknowledging His presence and expressing gratitude for His love and grace. Confide your questions, concerns, and desires in Him, knowing He is attentive to your every word.
Reading and meditating on Scripture can also be a powerful way to receive spiritual insight during prayer. God’s Word is a source of wisdom and guidance, providing answers and direction for life’s challenges.
Remember that prayer is not just about asking for guidance but also about listening. In the stillness of your heart, allow God to speak to you through His Holy Spirit. Be patient and open to His prompting and guidance, for He promises in Proverbs 3:6 (KJV):
“In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”
In seeking spiritual guidance through prayer, you strengthen your relationship with God and align your life with His divine purpose. It’s a journey of faith, trust, and communion with the One who knows the way and is ever willing to lead you in the paths of righteousness.
Research Churches
Some churches don’t teach tithing as part of their doctrine. On the other hand, there are churches that collect tithes, but it’s not mandatory for its members. So, visit and research different churches before choosing a church home.
Additionally, evaluate the church’s commitment to service and outreach. A healthy church is actively involved in outreach and serving the community’s needs, reflecting Christ’s love in practical ways.
Assess the Church’s Culture
Does the church overemphasize the tithing of your income? Do you feel pressured to tithe? Does the church make you feel guilty or condemned if you don’t tithe or don’t tithe as much as they say you should?
If you answer yes to any of these questions, you may want to consider finding another church. Ideally, the church is a place that nurtures and empowers you. It shouldn’t make you feel stressed over anything, especially so-called tithes.
Consider Tithing Alternatives
Modern-day tithing, or giving 10% of your income to a church, has long been a faithful practice for many. However, it’s not the only path to generosity. There are alternatives. You can give in ways that resonate with your Christian values. Here are a few examples:
- Offering-Based Giving: Instead of a fixed 10% tithe, some individuals give offerings based on their financial capacity. This allows for more flexibility in giving and can be tailored to your financial situation.
- Volunteer Time and Skills: Donating your time and skills to your church or charitable organizations can be a valuable alternative to financial giving. Volunteering allows you to contribute to the community using your talents and abilities.
- Targeted Donations: Rather than a blanket tithe, consider making targeted donations to specific projects, causes, or ministries within your church or charitable organizations. This approach allows you to allocate your contributions to areas that resonate most with your heart and priorities.
These alternatives provide options for those who may not be able to commit to a strict 10% tithe or who want to diversify their contributions to better align with their values and resources. It’s essential to discuss your giving preferences and options with your church or chosen charitable organizations to ensure your contributions are used effectively and in line with your intentions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do churches still teach tithing?
Churches continue to teach tithing for several reasons. First, some pastors base their teaching on a modern-day interpretation of the Old Testament practice of tithing. Second, tithing helps fund the church’s operations, outreach, and charitable activities. Some preachers believe tithing encourages financial stewardship and spiritual discipline among church members. Unfortunately, false teachers use tithes to fleece God’s people so they can live lavish lifestyles.
Does it matter what church you pay your tithes to?
The importance of where you pay your tithes can vary among individuals and denominations. Some believe it is important to tithe to the specific local church where they receive spiritual nourishment and support, as this directly sustains the local ministry.
Others may see tithing as a broader act of giving to support the overall work of God’s kingdom, and they may contribute to various charitable and religious organizations. Ultimately, the significance of where you pay your tithes is a matter of personal conviction and the teachings of your faith community.
How do you know when you should leave a church?
Leaving a church is a decision that should be made after careful consideration and prayer. Common reasons for leaving a church may include doctrinal disagreements, moral concerns, unresolved conflicts, or a sense that you are no longer growing spiritually. Ultimately, it should be based on what you believe is in the best interest of your Christian journey and relationship with God.
Is it good to pay tithe in different churches?
Paying tithe in different churches can be a matter of personal conviction and circumstance. Some individuals choose to split their tithes among multiple churches or ministries to support various causes they believe in. However, it’s essential to prayerfully consider your motivations and ensure that your giving aligns with your Christian faith and values.
A Final Thought
There’s nothing wrong with supporting your church financially. However, your voluntary financial contribution should not be a burden or hardship.
2 Corinthians 8: 11-14
11 Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have.
12 For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.
13 For I mean not that other men be eased, and ye burdened:
14 But by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality:
Also, your support of the church is not limited to giving money. You can always volunteer your time, skills, or talents.
If a church does not respect your financial circumstances and pressures you for more money or so-called tithes, you should consider seeking a new church home.
Remember that no matter what church you attend, you may not agree with all the teachings. Churches and denominations have differing views and interpretations of the scriptures. So, read and study the Bible for yourself and remain open to guidance from The Most High.
Outsmart the False Teachers
If you want to discover more tithe facts, I encourage you to get a copy of The Tithing Hoax. This book provides in-depth information on how to give the RIGHT way. It also offers helpful tips based on Scripture.
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Thanks for reading, and be blessed!
