Rapper T.I Breaks Silence: Why I Reject Church Despite Being a Christian

American rapper Clifford Joseph Harris Jr., famously known as T.I, has opened up about why he does not attend church despite his Christian faith.

Speaking during an interview with gospel musician Kirk Franklin, the Atlanta-born artist described the church as a business rather than a spiritual haven. He said while he was raised in a devout Christian household and has personally experienced God’s presence, he has never felt a genuine connection with organized religion.

“I have never been a church person. I grew up in a strong Christian household. My grandma and auntie were very strong in prayer. So, I know how to pray and I know the word. And I know God is real, I’ve seen his presence and his hands in my life. But I have never felt the connection with the church,” T.I explained.

The rapper criticised some clergy for allegedly “twisting” the Bible for personal gain and compared church services to performances akin to public speaking or TED talks. He further dismissed the idea that financial contributions or tithes are necessary for God to hear prayers.

“Y’all telling me… I gotta pay this joker… for my God to hear my prayer? Mehn I’m outta here,” he said. T.I emphasised that he sees no need for a middleman in his relationship with God.

His comments add to an ongoing conversation about personal faith versus institutional religion, resonating with many who question the commercialisation of spirituality.