Mark A. Croston

Mark A. Croston served as pastor to an urban congregation in Virginia for 26 years. He now serves as national director of Black & Western church partnerships at LifeWay Christian Resources. He is also general editor of the YOU Bible Study Curriculum and is the author of Big Results: Sunday School and Black Church Life.

How to Make Sure You’re Preaching to Everyone

7 tips for preaching to young, old and not-yet Christians

How to Preach an Effective Sermon

Discover the 6 essential elements for effective sermon preparation.

How a Group’s Culture Affects Your Leadership

Excerpted from 'Big Results Leadership' (B&H Books)

3 Fundamental Questions to Ask This Year

Discerning where to focus your energies is essential.

How to Show Your Appreciation for Church Staff

October is Pastor and Staff Appreciation Month. Here are six practical ways to show your appreciation for church staff.

What Does True Discipleship Look Like?

In the 1984 movie, The Karate Kid, Pat Morita starred as Miyagi. He develops a relationship with a young man named Daniel (the Karate Kid), played by Ralph Macchio. The movie centers around Miyagis efforts to mentor, or disciple, Daniel. As they begin this new relationship, Miyagi says to Daniel, Lets make a sacred pact. What true discipleship looks like is defined by a willingness to learn and obey. […]

7 Ways to Celebrate Black History Month at Your Church

Ideas for honoring the beauty of the diverse cultures in your church.