Should We Feel Guilty for Not Tithing?

As Christians, we often discuss guilt in relation to our actions and behaviors. If someone is at Church, they’re going to feel different types of emotions. We should never intentionally make others feel guilty for not giving financially. However, it is important for individuals to recognize their responsibility as givers. If you’re a Christian and you never give, whether it’s your time, talents, or finances, you should feel guilty. This isn’t about placing blame on the preacher or anyone else—it’s a personal reflection on one’s faith and commitment.

There is a difference between preaching that condemns and preaching that guides. When we share scripture, it’s not about using guilt to control others; it’s about helping people understand God’s Scripture for living. When these moments arise, it’s not the preacher’s fault—it’s a sign of internal reflection that should lead to growth.

For example, if I say, “Christians should be at church every Sunday they’re able to,” and someone feels guilty for missing multiple services, that’s not the preacher’s doing—it’s an opportunity for them to examine their commitment. Similarly, if I say, “We should not be watching pornography,” and someone who struggles with that feels guilty, that’s a sign they need to confront the issue.

The same applies to basic Christian principles like kindness. If I say, “We should be kind to one another,” and someone who has been rude feels bad about it, that guilt is a prompt to reflect and change. The goal isn’t to condemn but to encourage a deeper understanding of Jesus. When we see Jesus, we see who we should be like.

There is therefore no condemnation in Christ, and we should be able to worship in freedom and grace when we go to church.

If someone attends church every Sunday without fail, I might question whether they’re truly spending enough time with their family. On the other hand, if someone only attends once a month or is frequently absent, especially during summer or for extended periods, I would be concerned about their faith.

The church should be there to encourage comfort, and correct. When we follow Jesus, we live a life with the Lord and He leads us and He guides us. We are under the law that says we should give 10% of our income. What we give is freely by God’s grace. In fact as new covenant believers, we should really be giving more than they did in the Old Testament. Let’s live our life free from guilt and walk in God‘s goodness. 

If they feel guilty for these things, it’s not necessarily something God is doing towards them. That feeling is simply a natural response. When Adam and Eve first sinned they hid away from God. They felt guilty. God has given us a conscience and an understanding of good and evil because of His grace. He frees us from our guilt, offering complete forgiveness.