Sunday School

First Things is a welcoming place to learn more about the mission, beliefs, and life of First Methodist Midland while connecting with others. Each class stands on its own, so you can jump in anytime. Whether you’re new to First Methodist or simply want to get more connected, First Things is a great place to begin. This series of classes will be held Sunday, September 13th, 2026-November 1st, 2026. See below for the eight classes offered:

1. Why We Are Here | Our mission: Returning with Jesus to the Goodness of the Garden 

2. The Language of First Methodist | The Big 5, TOV, AVAD, SHAMAR, and other things you will hear around here

3. What We Believe | Our creeds, core doctrines, and Methodist convictions 

4. How Grace Changes Us | Faith, salvation, and John Wesley’s General Rules 

5. Meeting God in Scripture | Why and how we read the Bible as one grand story 

6. Meeting God in Prayer | Why and how we pray 

7. Meeting God in the Sacraments | Baptism and Holy Communion

8. Meeting God Together | How we belong, serve, and live out the meaning of membership together 

The Community of Joy Class is made up of singles and couples in their 50s through 80s. The class participates in video-based studies that alternate between Bible-focused topics and studies on Christian life and faith. Each study typically lasts five to eight weeks and includes a DVD and study guide that provide opportunities for thoughtful discussion and interaction.

Studies are selected by the class from materials available through the church library. In addition to Sunday morning study, members enjoy gathering together for fellowship outside of class. The class meets in Room 201.

The Developing Disciples Class is primarily for parents who want to build connections with other families while growing together through the study of God’s Word. The class focuses on in-depth Bible study and thoughtful discussion, with an emphasis on applying Scripture to everyday life.

Together, the class seeks to grow in their ability to love God and their neighbors, guide their children in faith, and share the good news throughout their community.

The Experiencing Faith Class seeks to connect Sunday morning worship with deeper study and application of God’s Word. Each week, the class explores the Scripture passage being taught by the pastors that Sunday, typically reading the surrounding chapters to better understand the larger biblical context.

The class spends time discussing the meaning of the Scripture, considering how it applies to everyday life, and processing what God may be teaching each person. Each gathering concludes with a time of prayer and reflection.

The Faith Walk Class is made up of couples and singles primarily in their 40s, 50s, and 60s. The class focuses on learning and applying God’s Word while providing opportunities for discussion, fellowship, and support. Members enjoy spirited conversation and building relationships with one another both inside and outside of class.

The Fisherman Class is made up primarily of younger parents with children ranging from preschool through early high school. This class is passionate about doing life together—encouraging, supporting, and holding one another accountable through every season of life. They enjoy regular fellowship outside of Sunday School and look for opportunities to serve and make a difference in the Permian Basin.

This fall, the class will begin an 8-week LifeGuide study called Busyness, exploring how we can make space for God in the midst of our busy lives and discover the joy of serving Jesus in our everyday work and responsibilities. The study will include thought-provoking questions and group discussion.

The Open Door Class welcomes adults in a variety of life stages, primarily ages 50–80. This class loves studying Scripture, learning from one another, and building meaningful relationships within the First Methodist community.

This fall, the class will explore the similarities and differences among Christian denominations around the world. Through study and discussion, the class will seek to better understand the rich diversity within the Christian faith while continuing to grow in their own faith and relationships with others.

The Pathfinders Class is a diverse group of adults in a variety of life stages. The class focuses primarily on Bible study, with occasional video-based studies incorporated into the schedule. The class values in-depth study of Scripture, thoughtful discussion, and fellowship.

This fall, the class will study the book of Isaiah through shared leadership, with Thomas Elrod leading the study and other class members sharing teaching responsibilities. Study notes are provided each week, and no previous preparation or knowledge of the study is required.

Following the completion of Isaiah, the class will begin a video series by Ray Vander Laan. Guests and new members are welcome to attend. The class meets in Room 200.

The Partners with Christ Class welcomes adults ages 60 and older, including both singles and couples in a variety of life stages. The class focuses on growing in faith through the study of Scripture, meaningful discussion, fellowship, and prayer.

This fall, a team of teachers will lead the class through a published study based on selected Scripture passages. Each member receives a study booklet to use throughout the week, providing opportunities for personal reflection and preparation for Sunday discussion.

Partners with Christ values doing life together through prayer, encouragement, and support during both celebrations and challenging seasons. The class also enjoys serving others by supporting Methodist missions and community organizations through both time and financial gifts. The class meets in Room 118.

The Genesis Class is made up primarily of empty nesters and grandparents who enjoy growing together through an in-depth study of Scripture. The class alternates between studying books of the Old and New Testaments and enjoys lively discussion and thoughtful conversation.

This fall, the class will study a book from the New Testament through a teacher-led discussion. The class seeks to understand the historical and biblical context of Scripture while also exploring how God’s Word connects to our lives and the world around us. Bring your Bible and come ready to learn and participate.