Introduction: Last words of famous people may sometimes be kind of odd! For example:......However, last words also are often significant. These are certainly NOT Paul's last words before dieing, however, these ARE Paul's final words to the Corinthians. Paul said a number of things in this final chapter. Some of them are very appropriate for us to hear as we dedicate our new addition.

I. Examine yourselves to see if you are in the Faith (13:5).

Being in a church building will not make you a Christian any more than being in a garage will make you an automobile. Are you a believer? Have you asked Jesus to be your Savior? Have you made a decision to love and follow Jesus?

II. Rejoice! (13:11)

The Greek says literally, "Finally brothers, rejoice!" (The NASB translates it this way.) Note: The Christian life is supposed to be a life of joy, and if your life is not full of joy, something is not right.

III. Get yourselves spiritually in shape (13:11).

A. NIV reads, "Aim for perfection!" NASB reads, "Be made complete," which is better. But the Greek word is: katartizesthe, which literally means something like: "restore yourself, or equip yourself, or get yourself in shape." The same word is used in Ephesians 4:12 where it says that the pastor's job is to "prepare" or "equip" God's people for works of service.

B. Are you in good condition spiritually speaking? Are you equipped? Are you spiritually prepared to serve God? Is your mind full of God's word, and is your heart in tune with God's love and purposes?

IV. Be of one mind (13:11).

A. This is a good translation. The Greek is literally "Think the same thing."

B. But we disagree about so many things! Some of us have disagreed about carpet colors, wall paper, which rooms will be used for what, and so on. These things are all so trivial! God did not give us a new addition for us to argue over, He gave it to us to use in His service.

C. What are some basics about which we should all think the same? Certainly the inspiration of the Bible, the Gospel, living in love and obeying the Great Commission.

V. Live in Peace (13:11).

This is my last point this morning, and also the conclusion to this sermon.

A. We all need peace WITH God, and we get that by repenting of our sins, and trusting in Jesus for salvation.

B. The Peace OF God. We need it personally in our hearts, to keep us from worrying and fretting. It comes with faith.

C. The Peace of God in our church, our community and around the world. There will be no peace in the church, unless we all love the Lord and His people more than we love ourselves. There will be no peace in the world, until the world accepts the Prince of Peace. Pray for missions. Pray for Jesus to return soon. Amen!