Isaac Rwomushana breaks silence on viral tithe sermon, says giving should never be forced

• Isaac Rwomushana says church members should never be forced to give tithes.
• He argues that giving must come from personal conviction and understanding.
• His remarks have sparked debate, especially among born-again church leaders.

Fast Rising preacher Isaac Rwomushana has spoken out following a viral video in which he addressed the issue of tithing in church. The clip, widely shared on TikTok and other social media platforms, sparked debate after Rwomushana told his congregation that giving should never be forced.

Rwomushana, known for blending scripture with practical reasoning in his teachings, clarified his position during a conversation with media personality Kasuku. He emphasized that church members should feel free to give only if they genuinely have something to offer and are willing in their hearts.

“In my church, nobody is forced to give. If you don’t have anything, you are free to sit and listen to the word,” Rwomushana said.

He explained that true giving must come from the heart, not from pressure or fear. According to him, believers should first understand the meaning and purpose of giving before being encouraged to practice it. He referenced the biblical commandment to “love your neighbor as yourself,” arguing that helping those in need should take priority.

“How do you give to God whom you have never seen and ignore your neighbor who is suffering right next to you?” he asked.

Rwomushana criticized some preachers for misinterpreting scripture and failing to communicate it appropriately to their congregations. He compared it to “using a Primary Seven textbook to teach baby class pupils,” saying that spiritual teachings must be delivered at the right level of understanding.

He further noted that if believers are properly taught about generosity, they will give freely without feeling compelled. He added that giving should be based on personal conviction and experience, not obligation.

Rwomushana also observed that many Africans are still learning the deeper principles of giving, having largely encountered the concept within church settings. Because of this, he described the subject as delicate and in need of careful teaching.

His remarks have drawn mixed reactions, especially from critics who argue that many born-again churches strongly emphasize mandatory tithing. However, Rwomushana maintains that church attendance should never be tied to financial contribution.