American rapper Clifford Joseph Harris Jr., widely known as T.I., has explained why he chooses not to attend church, even though he identifies as a Christian.
The Atlanta-born star shared his views during a recent conversation with gospel singer Kirk Franklin, where he spoke openly about faith, religion, and his personal beliefs.
T.I. said he grew up in a deeply religious home and learned the foundations of Christianity at a young age. According to him, prayer and belief in God were strong parts of his upbringing.
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His grandmother and aunt, he recalled, were devoted Christians who prayed often and taught him how to seek God for himself. Because of this background, the rapper said his faith in God has never been in doubt.
However, he made it clear that his faith does not extend to the modern church system. T.I. said he has never felt a personal connection to church institutions, despite his strong belief in God.
In his view, the church no longer reflects the true message of Christianity.
“I have never been a church person,” T.I. said. “I grew up in a strong Christian household. My grandma and my auntie were powerful in prayer. I know how to pray. I know the word. And I know God is real. I’ve seen God’s presence and his hand in my life. But I’ve never felt a real connection with the church.”
He went further to criticise what he sees as the commercialisation of religion. According to the rapper, many churches now operate more like businesses than spiritual centres.
He compared church services to motivational speaking events and public shows, rather than sacred gatherings focused on worship.
“To be honest, I don’t think the church is real,” he said. “I think it’s a business. It feels like a show. It’s like public speaking, like a TED Talk. And sometimes, the clergy twist the word of God to benefit themselves.”
T.I. also accused some religious leaders of using the Bible to exploit their followers. He argued that certain pastors manipulate scripture to gain power, money, and influence over their congregations.
In his view, this practice pushes people away from genuine faith instead of drawing them closer to God.
Another major point of disagreement for the rapper is the issue of tithes and church offerings. T.I. said he does not believe that financial payments to a church are required for God to answer prayers or grant blessings.
He rejected the idea that money should stand between a believer and God.
“You’re telling me I have to pay someone for God to hear my prayer?” he said. “I’m out of here.”
He stressed that his relationship with God is personal and direct. As a result, he does not believe in the need for a middleman, such as a pastor or priest, to communicate with God on his behalf.
For him, faith is about personal understanding, prayer, and accountability.
T.I.’s comments have sparked conversations online, with many people sharing mixed reactions. While some agree with his views on organized religion, others argue that churches still play an important role in spiritual growth and community support.
Despite the debate, T.I. maintains that his faith remains strong. He insists that belief in God does not always require participation in church activities.
Instead, he believes true faith begins with honesty, personal conviction, and a direct relationship with God.
