Why don’t church members tithe? It’s a question that highlights one of the biggest challenges facing churches today. While biblical giving is a foundational part of faith-based stewardship, studies reveal that less than 5% of Christians tithe regularly.

The reasons for not tithing vary—financial struggles, misconceptions, lack of trust in church leadership, and competing financial priorities. However, addressing these barriers can unlock a powerful culture of giving, deeply rooted in faith and generosity.

In this article, we’ll uncover the top reasons why members don’t tithe, explore solutions like financial discipleship programs, and provide actionable steps to increase church giving. By teaching biblical giving and leveraging modern tithing practices, your church can inspire generosity and build trust.

Understanding the Importance of Tithing

Tithing is more than a financial habit—it’s a spiritual discipline that reflects stewardship and faith.

• Biblical Principles of Giving: Scripture consistently emphasizes the importance of tithing. Malachi 3:10 encourages believers to “bring the whole tithe into the storehouse,” while 2 Corinthians 9:7 calls for cheerful giving. Tithing demonstrates trust in God’s provision and aligns financial habits with spiritual priorities.

• Importance of Tithing for Churches: Tithes fuel ministries, support outreach, and sustain church operations. Without consistent giving, churches struggle to fulfill their mission and engage with their communities effectively.

• Addressing Misconceptions: Some members view tithing as outdated or legalistic. By teaching biblical giving through sermons, small groups, and discipleship programs, pastors can show that tithing is an act of worship and gratitude.

Financial Struggles and Tithing Challenges

One of the most common reasons for not tithing is financial hardship.

• Living Paycheck-to-Paycheck: According to recent studies, nearly 78% of Americans live paycheck-to-paycheck. Financial struggles often leave little room for giving, making tithing feel unattainable.

• Consumer Debt and Tithing: Many members carry significant credit card debt, further complicating their ability to prioritize generosity.

• Budgeting for Tithing: Teaching financial freedom and stewardship in church is essential. Offering financial wellness programs can empower members to create budgets, reduce debt, and make faith-based giving a priority.

How our tech can help:
With Stablish, members can set tithing goals, link their bank accounts, and track their giving in real time. Our platform also includes budgeting tools that help churchgoers prioritize generosity while managing their finances effectively.

Lack of Tithing Education and Awareness

A lack of tithing education often contributes to low participation in church giving.

• Teaching Biblical Giving: Without clear instruction, members may not understand how to tithe biblically or why generosity matters. Pastors can encourage tithing in church by explaining how it reflects stewardship and spiritual maturity.

• Discipleship and Giving: Incorporating tithing into financial discipleship programs ensures members understand its spiritual significance. These programs can connect personal finance for Christians with the joy of giving.

• Modern Tithing Practices: Offering digital tools, like tithing apps and automated giving for churches, makes participation easier and more consistent.

Distrust in Church Leadership and Financial Transparency

Building trust in church finances is essential for motivating church members to tithe.

• The Role of Church Leadership: When members lack confidence in how funds are managed, they may hesitate to give. Transparency fosters trust and encourages a culture of giving.

• Church Financial Transparency: Regularly share detailed financial reports and highlight stories of generosity. Show how tithes support specific ministries or projects, ensuring members see the impact of their contributions.

• Trust Through Communication: Openly discuss church donation strategies and provide updates on how funds are used to serve the community.

Competing Financial Priorities

Modern financial pressures often compete with the desire to give.

• Balancing Priorities: Rising living costs, healthcare expenses, and saving for the future often take precedence over tithing.

• Faith-Based Giving Practices: Teach members how to align their financial habits with their faith, emphasizing stewardship and spiritual growth.

• Tithing Solutions for Churches: Encourage members to start small with incremental giving goals. Offer automated giving options to simplify the process and create consistency.

Our technology at stablish helps members prioritize tithing by offering automated giving options and tools that simplify the process.

Spiritual Growth and Giving

Generosity is deeply tied to spiritual maturity.

• Generosity in Christianity: Tithing isn’t just about meeting financial needs; it’s about trusting God and participating in His work. Highlight the spiritual benefits of generosity in your sermons and discipleship programs.

• Culture of Giving: Celebrate acts of generosity within the church. Share stories of generosity that demonstrate how giving transforms lives and strengthens faith.

• Motivating Members to Tithe: Inspire members by connecting their giving habits to the impact they have on advancing the kingdom of God.

How to Grow Church Donations

Overcoming financial barriers and building a strong culture of giving requires intentionality.

• Offer Financial Wellness for Church Members: Help members overcome financial struggles with resources like financial freedom workshops and budgeting tools.

• Share Stories of Generosity: Use testimonials to show how tithes make a tangible difference in people’s lives and the church’s mission.

• Provide Modern Giving Solutions: Incorporate tithing apps and automated giving platforms that make generosity accessible and convenient.

At Stablish.Church, we believe in empowering churches to build a culture of generosity. Our platform offers innovative solutions to overcome financial barriers, build trust, and make giving a natural and joyful part of your members’ lives.

Conclusion

Tithing is about so much more than finances—it’s a profound expression of faith, trust in God, and a tangible way to partner with His work. While challenges like financial struggles, lack of understanding, and trust issues are real, they can be overcome with intentional teaching, practical tools, and a focus on spiritual growth.

As church leaders, your mission is to inspire members to live generously, steward their resources well, and reflect God’s heart for giving. By implementing financial stewardship programs, fostering transparency, and adopting modern tools like Stablish.Church, you can create a seamless and meaningful giving experience for your congregation.

At Stablish, we’re here to empower your church with a platform that simplifies giving, builds trust, and integrates financial wellness with discipleship. Our innovative tools make it easy for members to budget their tithe, set giving goals, and see the direct impact of their generosity—helping you nurture a thriving culture of giving.

Generosity isn’t just a habit—it’s a lifestyle that reflects the transformative power of faith. Together, let’s equip your church to overcome barriers, embrace generosity, and grow God’s kingdom through stewardship, trust, and technology. Start today with Stablish.Church and see how we can help your congregation thrive.