Milestones Classes
Adult Discipleship
Milestones is a framework for adult discipleship designed to equip people through 6 and 12-week courses held throughout the week. The Milestones 101, 201, 301 structure allows for a Pathway of Discipleship that, when combined with involvement in Life Bible Study, provides opportunity for spiritual growth.
101: Discipleship Essentials
This class provides a foundational approach to discipleship for those that are new to the faith as well as those who been believers for years.
Milestones 101 - Discipleship Essentials: Book 1
Every Wed, Jan 27–Apr 28 @ 6:30-8p — Rm 401 and Online
F Lee & Karen Partridge
C Julianne.Kho@HoustonsFirst.org
Discipleship Essentials: Book 1 is a Milestones 101 introductory class to developing a strong foundation for your personal relationship with God. You will be led through the fundamentals of discipleship by table facilitators in a small group format. You will experience enriching Bible studies, scripture memorization, effective quiet time tools, and a deepening of your prayer life.
201: Core Practices and Beliefs
Classes in this section of Milestones provide the next level of discipleship in areas such as Prayer, Evangelism, Worldview, Stewardship, and Family.
Conversational Pre-Evangelism
201 >> Core Practices
Every Thu, Jan 14-Feb 18 @ 8-9:30p — Online Only
T David Sonnen
C Julianne.Kho@HoustonsFirst.org
Many everyday Christians do not know how to confidently evangelize with family members, coworkers and/or friends in general. This class is designed to equip you with the knowledge and practice of evangelizing. Understand how the worldview of Post-Modernism has negatively impacted our ability to communicate the Gospel. Learn the four types of conversational engagements for asking questions and creating interest with the goal of building bridges from the person to them knowing and accepting Jesus.
NOTE: This class requires the use of the book, Conversational Evangelism: Connecting with People to Share Jesus, 2nd edition, by Norman Geisler and David Gesler. You can purchase this book on Amazon or other online retailers for approximately $12. Please have the book by the first class on Wed, Jan 14. Scholarships for the required book are available. If you need a scholarship contact Julianne Kho at 713-957-7681 or Julianne.Kho@HoustonsFirst.org.
An additional (non-required) resource book to get is, Tactics: A Game Plan for Discussing Your Christian Convictions by Gregory Koukl. You can purchase this book on Amazon or other online retailers for approximately $10.
Financial Peace University
201 >> Core Practices
Every Wed, Jan 27–Apr 28 @ 6:30-8p — Rm 502
T David Lightbody & Andrew Crim
C Stewardship@HoustonsFirst.org
Financial Peace University teaches a practical approach to money, following Biblical principles of stewardship. Learn to manage personal finances, get out of debt, save, invest, and give generously! For more info, contact email above and reference FPU 2021. NOTE: FPU Membership required – discounted prices and scholarships may be available!
Milestones 201 - Discipleship Essentials: Book 2
201 >> Core Beliefs
Every Wed, Jan 27–Apr 28 @ 6:30-8p — Rm 401
F Lee & Karen Partridge
C Julianne.Kho@HoustonsFirst.org
Discipleship Essentials: Book 2 builds on the work accomplished in Book 1. You will learn ways to deepen your own Christian life, examine approaches for sharing your faith, and find fresh ways to experience an extended time alone with God.
NOTE: You must have completed Discipleship Essentials: Book 1 in order to take the Book 2 class.
Navigating Your Finances God's Way
201 >> Core Practices
Every Wed, Jan 27–Apr 28 @ 6:30-8p — Online Only
T Brad Baxter
C Stewardship@HoustonsFirst.org
Questions about money are a part of our lives no matter the phase of life or circumstance in which we find ourselves. The Navigating Your Finances God’s Way Study is designed to unpack Scripture in a powerful and practical way that creates a foundation for life-changing application. This 12-week study takes time and commitment as we cover saving, generosity, investing, debt, and the many spiritual aspects of finances.
301: Specific Discipleship
Classes that provide specific discipleship in the following areas: Bible Book Study, Engaging the World (Missions), General Interest, Life Stages, Special Situations in Life, and Spiritual Maturity.
33 the Series (Vol. 6): A Man and His Fatherhood
301 >> Spiritual Maturity
Every Wed, Jan 27–Mar 10 @ 6:30-8p — Rm 504
T Eric Reed
C Julianne.Kho@HoustonsFirst.org
Being a dad is one of the most important and influential roles a man could ever play in his life. But being a good dad doesn't always come naturally. That's what this volume of 33:The Series is all about - setting you up to win as a dad. This class is designed to help dads think strategically about how they play out their important role. It equips you with insights that will help guide you through key decisions and the great challenges of being a dad.
NOTE: This class requires the use of the workbook, 33 The Series: Volume 6: Training Guide. You can purchase this book in class for $15. If you need a scholarship, contact Julianne Kho at 713.957.7681 or Julianne.Kho@HoustonsFirst.org.
100 Bible Verses that Made America (Fitness & Bible Study)
301 >> Spiritual Maturity
Every Wed, Jan 27–Apr 28 @ 6:15-8p — Rm 274 (FRC)
Every Thu, Jan 28–Apr 15 @ 1:30-3p — Rm 274 (FRC)
T Debbie Brown
C Debbie.Brown@HoustonsFirst.org
Journey with Robert J. Morgan on a Biblical tour through American history, as he teaches about the impact on the people of our nation’s history, reminding us of the beauty at the intersection of faith and country and reigniting our hearts’ passions for both.
All In
301 >> Special Situation
Every Thu, Jan 28-Mar 11 @ 11:20a-12:30p — Online Only
T Jenny Sheets
C Jenny.Sheets@HoustonsFirst.org
ALL IN Orphan Care is a six-session study designed to prepare and equip those who are exploring the invitation to foster care, adoption or some aspect of supporting families. The six sessions include: A "Clear and Compelling" Why, and the Theology of Our Redemption. The book will be provided in advance of the first meeting. NOTE: Registration Required.
The Art of Parenting
301 >> Life Stage
Every Wed, Jan 27-Mar 10 @ 6:30-7:30p — Rm 336A and Online
T Kirk and Kristen Phifer
C Bill.Emeott@HoustonsFirst.org or Melinda.Scurlock@HoustonsFirst.org
This interactive and collaborative study will help parents make faith the core of their parenting with intentional, biblical teaching and Christ-centered plans. Parents will end the experience with renewed confidence, fresh insights on raising children at different ages, and a parenting plan unique to each child’s personality and gifting. Don’t miss this opportunity to set up a parenting framework that is biblical, reliable, and intentional at aiming your child’s heart toward God (Psalm 127:4).
CanHope Monthly Meeting
301 >> Special Situation
Every Mon, Jan-May @ 6-8p – Reception Rm and Online
T Sharon Sidwell
C Sharon.Sidwell@HoustonsFirst.org
CanHope is a support group that meets every second Monday of each month at 6:00pm. We meet in person and online via Zoom and Facebook Live. CanHope ministers to people touched by cancer, chronic illness, auto-immune disease and to those who love and care for them. Participants offer hope and encouragement as they walk alongside patients, those in remission, friends and family members making this journey. Participants offer friendship from someone who has been on the same journey through cancer, to lend a listening ear, to discuss fears, anger, confusion, anxiety by giving hope and encouragement while maintaining confidentiality. At each meeting there is fellowship, shared testimonies and prayer. There are often guest speakers who present informative subjects to impart spiritual growth and promote physical health tips. At the end of each meeting, the deacons of HFBC are available for prayer and anointing of anyone who wishes.
Conquer Series
301 >> Spiritual Maturity
Every Wed, Jan 27-Apr 28 @ 6:30-8p — Online only
T Myles Schutte & Taylor Clark
C Eric.Reed@HoustonsFirst.org
This is not just another study tool for men, but a tried and proven battle plan for purity in a lustful world. Success in the battle against sexual sin means arming yourself with the tools and strategies to help combat the traps that surround men every day. Designed around confidential small groups, you'll find acceptance, protection and encouragement. The setting is casual. You will be going through a monthly curriculum consisting of DVDs, workbooks, and discussions.
Culture Conversations
301 >> Life Stage
Every Wed, Jan 27-Mar 10 @ 6:30-7:30p — Rm 333 and Online
F HUB Staff, various speakers
C Linda.Sproule@HoustonsFirst.org
As a parent do you find it hard to talk to your student about rising issues in the culture around us? Culture Conversations is a 6-week course geared toward parents of teenagers to help them talk about a variety of cultural issues facing teens and themselves today! Topics to be covered are: Suicide & Depression, Anxiety in Teens, Understanding Gen Z, Talks about Race, Balancing Technology in the Home, and Options After High School. Each will be taught by a different teacher but hosted in-person and online by the same facilitator. This is a great way to gather information and start having those tough conversations with your student.
Divorce Care
301 >> Special Situation
Every Wed, Jan 27-Apr 21 @ 6:30-8p — Online only
T John Adams and Margie Sanders
C John.Adams@HoustonsFirst.org
DivorceCare is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s most difficult experiences. Don’t go through separation or divorce alone.
Divorce Care for Kids (DC4K)
301 >> Special Situation
Online Option: Every Mon, Feb 1-Apr 26 @ 7-8:30p — Online
T Joy Chen C Joy.Chen@HoustonsFirst.org
On-Campus Option: Every Wed, Jan 27-Apr 21 @ 6:30-8p – Rm 263
T Jasmyn Price C Jasmyn.Price@HoustonsFirst.org
Your kids probably feel scared, sad, and confused after your divorce. They know you have been hurt deeply. As a result, they may hide their feelings because they are worried about your happiness or because they do not know how to express their feelings appropriately. DC4K helps them process those feelings and gives them tools to communicate better with you.
ETHNOS: How to Love Your Neighbor Well
301 >> Engaging the World
Session: 2 (Mar 24 - Apr 28)
Every Wed @ 6:30-8p – Connection Ctr
T Various
C Geniffer.Roach@HoustonsFirst.org
Did you know you’re a part of a faith community where we’ve got all kinds of diversity (i.e. geographic, linguistic, socioeconomic, cultural, gender, ethnic, familial, generational, country of origin, etc.)? Data from social scientists suggests that being around people who are different from you opens the door for your personal preferences and cultural norms to be challenged. When we’re challenged, we’re in a better position to grow in Christlikeness. The scriptures teach us that the greatest and most important commandment is to love God with all that we are (Matthew 22:34-38). Immediately following that, however, we’re told to love our neighbors (Matthew 22:38-40). The goal of this class is to foster healthy and helpful dialogue so that each of us can increase our cultural competency, grow in empathy, and develop tools for productive engagement.
Faith and Fire: Elijah
301 >> Bible Book Study
Every Wed, Jan 27-Mar 17 @ 1:30-3p — Online only
T Amy Andrews
C Alisa.Williams@HoustonsFirst.org
Join us for a 7-week journey led by Priscilla Shirer through the life and times of the prophet Elijah. Discover how the fire on Mount Carmel was forged in the valley of famine and how the emboldened, fiery faith you desire is being fashioned by God in your life right now.
First Place For Health (FP4H): Motivated to Wellness
301 >> General Interest
Tuesdays (evening) Tuesdays (mid-day)
Jan 12-Mar 16 @ 6:15-7:45p — Rm 258 Jan 12-Mar 16 @ Noon-1:15p — Rm 253
T Michelle Peters T Carole Lewis
C Michelle.Peters@firstplace4health.com C Carole.Lews@firstplace4health.com
This class will help you create balance in all four areas of Christian Life: Mental-Emotional-Spiritual-Physical. The class includes 1) Relevant Bible Studies, 2) Up-to-date Nutrition Info 3) Fitness Options/Gym Discount 4) Group Support/Accountability 5) Annual Events
NOTE: New Member Orientation on Jan 10 at 3pm in room 258.
Grace & Glory: A Women’s Prayer Gathering
301>>Spiritual Maturity
Every Thu, Jan 21–Apr 29 @ 11:30a-12:30p – Connection Ctr
F Shannon Bloodworth and Janet Taylor Coleman
C Alisa.Williams@HoustonsFirst.org
Because of Jesus, we can approach the throne of God with boldness, receive mercy and find grace to help us with our every need. Join us for a time of sharing and prayer, where we lift up our praise and petitions to the King of Glory.
Gracewalk: Study of James
301>> Bible Book Study
Every Tue, Jan 19–Mar 30 @ 10-11a – Fellowship Center
T Valerie Norris
C Alisa.Williams@HoustonsFirst.org
Grassroots Apologetics for Parents (GAP)
301 >> Life Stage
Every Wed, Mar 24 - Apr 28 @ 6:30-7:30p — Rm 336A and Online
T Kate Gober
C Tim.Young@HoustonsFirst.org
Grassroots Apologetics for Parents aims to fill the ‘GAP’ between what parents know and what they need to know to prepare their children for defending their faith. This small group study focuses on the need for parents to be prepared to intentionally initiate and respond to conversations about Truth. Attendees will read through and discuss Natasha Crain’s “Keeping Your Kids on God’s Side” to gain confidence in guiding children through a defense of a Biblical worldview.
GriefShare
301 >> Special Situation
Every Thu @ 7-8:30p — Rm 249 and Online
T Jerry & Jenny Kovaly and Rob & Carole Jensen
C Dan.Miller@HoustonsFirst.org
GriefShare is an international network of thousands of grief recovery support groups designed to help people find help as they grieve the death of a family member or friend.
A weekly GriefShare group is a place where you don’t have to have it all together. You will find others who truly understand the raw emotions and difficult struggles you are facing. GriefShare helps you move from mourning to joy, showing you how to take healthy steps forward in the days, weeks, and months after your loved one’s death.
Click here to join online via Zoom.
Meeting ID: 926 1553 8571 | One tap mobile +1-346-248-7799 | Participation Code: 92615538571#
Iron 2 Iron Widowers
301 >> Special Situation
Every third Mon, Jan-Aug @ 11:45a-1:00p — Reception Rm
T Debbie Portilla
C Debbie.Portilla@HoustonsFirst.org
In the same way we minister to widows, we also come alongside men of Houston's First as they navigate life without their spouse. Our desire is to encourage, nourish, and renew the hearts of men who have lost their wives as they seek a new normal. Conversations and inspiration shared around a home-cooked meal.
Keeping Kids Safe in a Digital Age
301 >> Life Stage
Every Wed, Mar 24–Apr 28 @ 6:30-8p — Rm 333 and Online
T Breanna Fetkavich
C breanna@streetgrace.org
In the past 9 months, technology has been a larger part of our lives than ever before in human history! While technology is beneficial in so many ways, it also puts our children at risk for sexual exploitation. Many of our children are learning online this year and many of them aren’t able to have constant supervision while using their technology. Unfortunately, sexual predators are taking full advantage of this and we have a responsibility to protect them. In fact, 79,000 children in Texas are sexually exploited every year and 75% of those children are first approached by the predator online. Providing a safe environment for students while using technology has never been more important and we want to equip you to do so. During this class, we will empower you to have meaningful conversations with your children about sex and sexuality through a Christ centered perspective. This class is appropriate for parents, grandparents, teachers or caregivers of children of all ages 2 to 20.
Life's Healing Choices
301 >> Special Situation
Sessions: 1-2 (Jan 27-Apr 28)
Every Wed @ 6:30-8p — Rm 602
T Eleanor Delgado
C end1402@gmail.com
We’ve all been hurt by other people, we’ve hurt ourselves, and we’ve hurt others. And as a result, every single one of us ends up with some sort of hurt, hang-up, or habit. But the question we all face is, Where do we go from here? Ten years after the original edition of Life’s Healing Choices, this newly revised edition contains updates to basic teaching principles “based on ten years experience” as well as new and contemporary testimonies. Using the Beatitudes of Jesus as a foundation, Rick Warren and John Baker, pastors at Saddleback Church, developed the eight choices shared in this book. You’ll find real answers, real hope, and a real future “one healing choice” at a time.
NOTE: This class is only open to Women this semester.
The Link: Revolution Within
301 >> Spiritual Maturity
Sessions: 1-2 (Jan 27-Apr 28)
Every Wed @ 6:30-8p — Chapel
T Dwight Edwards
C Geniffer.Roach@HoustonsFirst.org
An in-depth exploration of the supernatural resources which reside within every believer. Because of what God has done, you actually possess outlandish treasures you may never have dreamed existed. God has made “New Covenant” promises to each of us. And in fulfillment of those promises, He has placed within every believer four revolutionary provisions: a new purity, a new disposition, a new identity, and a new power. Taken in large part from Dwight’s best-selling book, “Revolution Within,” and the accompanying workbook, “Experiencing Christ Within.”
Milestones 301 - Discipleship Essentials: Book 3
301 >> Spiritual Maturity
Sessions: 1-2 (Jan 27-Apr 28)
Every Wed @ 6:30-8p — Rm 401
F Lee & Karen Partridge
C Julianne.Kho@HoustonsFirst.org
Discipleship Essentials: Book 3 is the third and final study of the DE series. You will continue to develop and strengthen your walk with Christ. You will discuss priorities for life management, learn a versatile tool for explaining the Gospel, and sharpen your own salvation testimony.
NOTE: You must have completed Discipleship Essentials Book 1 & Book 2 in order to take the Book 3 class.
Motherwise
301 >> Life Stage
Every Wed, Jan 20-Mar 10 @ 9:30-11:30a — Rm 249
T Beth Miles
C Alisa.Williams@HoustonsFirst.org
Take a journey with us into God's Word to discover how He gives us wisdom as a woman and as a mother. Within this community, your walk will strengthen, and your joy will grow as you learn how to apply the truths of scripture to your everyday life. You will also hear from different guest speakers on various hot topics.
MYA Grow Groups
301 >> Spiritual Maturity
Sessions: 1-2 (Jan 27-Apr 28)
Every Wed @ 6:30-8p — Rm 290
T Brad Talbert
C Suzan.Mayoli@HoustonsFirst.org
This 12 week class will both equip you to maximize your Grow Group experiences as well as give you tools to invest in the lives of other people. We will cover the purpose of Grow Groups, the biblical values needed and the essential elements that are vital to establishing biblical friendships which yield life change for all involved.
Phase 2
301 >> Special Situation
Every second Thu, Jan-Aug @ 11:45a-1:30p — Fellowship Center
T Debbie Portilla
C Debbie.Portilla@HoustonsFirst.org
Too often a woman finds herself alone after facing the death of her husband. So many things about her life change. She finds herself in the second phase of her life. Phase 2 are women who hold this one thing in common - finding a new normal in life whether 20 or 90 years of age after losing their husband. Ladies (widows) meet for a fellowship meal and sharing with friends. This is not a counseling session nor a support group. It is a safe environment where they can be comfortable in their new identity. The Pastoral Care staff seeks to develop close personal relationships with all widows whether they can participate in the monthly meeting or not by helping them as they navigate their transition and learning to blossom through the years as they trust the Lord for their life. The meeting is only the beginning of the relationship.
Piecemakers
301 >> General Interest
Every Wed, Jan 27-Apr 28 @ 9:30a-Noon — Rm 143
T Carol Pierce
C Alisa.Williams@HoustonsFirst.org
Whether you are a beginner or an advanced quilter, experience the time-honored tradition of quilting. Learn the art of quilting with other Christian women and also enjoy some good old-fashioned conversation, laughter and food.
Precept Upon Precept: Romans, Part 4
301 >> Bible Book Study
Every Tue, Jan 26-Mar 23 @ 9:30a-noon — Rm 262
T Laurie Tamez
C Alisa.Williams@HoustonsFirst.org
Scripture tells us the righteous will live by faith. Do you want to learn how to live out your faith authentically? This study focuses on Romans 12-16, which are very practical chapters that equip you to offer your life as living sacrifice to God.
Precept Upon Precept: A Walk Through the Minor Prophets
301 >> Bible Book Study
Sessions: 1-2 (Jan 27-Apr 28)
Every Wed @ 6:30-8p — Rm 143
T Sandy Wright
C Alisa.Williams@HoustonsFirst.org
A study of repentance, revival, and the promises of God. This course will lead you to understand God's word to Israel and apply its truths as you strive to know the character of our God in the books of Obadiah, Joel, Jonah and Amos.
Prophecy in Daniel & Jonah
301 >> Bible Book Study
Every Wed, Jan 13-Apr 14 @ 9:45a-noon — Rm 253/254 and Online
T Marsha Taylor
C Alisa.Williams@HoustonsFirst.org
Prophecy in the Book of Daniel - Jan 13-Mar 3
If you would like to know God’s program for the future, it is essential that you understand the book of Daniel. By and large, God does not unfold the future to us, and certainly not in detail. But He does show us in the prophetic Scriptures the general trend of events and where it will all end. Anyone who investigates this area thoughtfully, carefully, and scripturally will discover everything that is happening in our world today is working out God’s purposes on earth. The prophecies will all end exactly as God foretold. We can begin to understand what is happening today if we know what His prophetic program is.
The Study of Jonah - Mar 24-Apr 14
God pursued Jonah and brought him to the realization that His way is best. God taught Jonah that he could do nothing by himself. The book of Jonah teaches us to obey God’s call the first time and prepares us to be amazed at what God can accomplish through us.
Re|engage
301 >> Life Stage
Every Wed, Jan 27-Apr 28 @ 6:30-8p — Rm 253/254 and Online
T Diane and Chris Deily
C Suzan.Mayoli@HoustonsFirst.org
Re|engage is a marriage enrichment program. Marriages in any condition can benefit, whether you are struggling to get along, your marriage is broken, or you simply want to grow closer together as a couple.
Sisters in Support
301 >> Special Situation
Sessions: 1-2 (Jan 27-Apr 28)
Every Wed @ 6:30-8p — Rm 248B (Pastor’s Conf Rm)
T Joanna Poor & Rosa Waters
C Alisa.Williams@HoustonsFirst.org
No parent expects to make his or her child’s funeral arrangements. Join teachers Rosa Waters and Joanna Poor along with other mothers on a personal journey toward spiritual growth and healing.
Special Moms and Dads
301 >> Special Situation
Every Wed, Jan 27-Apr 28 @ 6:30-8p — Rm 322 and Online
T Daniel Williams
C Daniel.Williams@HoustonsFirst.org
Special needs parents face unique challenges. This class will explore many of those issues to help parents develop a strategy to thrive no matter the circumstances.
Stephen Ministry
301 >> Leadership Training
Sessions: 1-2 (Jan 27-Apr 28)
Every Wed @ 6-8:30p — Rm 145
T Stephen Ministry Leaders
C Dau.Ayub@HoustonsFirst.org
Stephen Ministry equips laypeople from the HFBC congregation to provide confidential one-on-one Christian care to individuals in the church community who are experiencing difficulties through weekly meetings and emotional/spiritual care.
Waiting in Hope
301 >> Special Situation
Every other Mon, Jan 25-Apr 19 @ 6:30p-8p — Online only
D Amy Skinner
C Alisa.Williams@HoustonsFirst.org
This infertility support group was created to walk alongside those struggling with the grief of difficulty conceiving whether it's infertility, miscarriage, prolonged “waiting” or those waiting to adopt. There is hope to be found during this season of waiting. Genuine, life-giving help can come from others walking this journey together. Our goal is that this group and our events would be a source of hope, strength, insight, freedom and honest heartfelt encouragement to those walking through what can feel like a very long and rocky path.
Warrior's Heart
301 >> Spiritual Maturity
Every Thur, Jan 14-May 6 @ 6:30-7:30a — Garden Rm and Online
T Eric Reed
C Julianne.Kho@HoustonsFirst.org
Warrior's Heart is a weekly bible study for men. This study provides clear biblical teaching in a 30-minute master teacher session, followed by real conversations around tables in a relaxed atmosphere. While men are encouraged to come weekly, it is not a requirement of the study. Join us (and bring a friend if you like) and start your day off with focus and encouragement!