Biblical Priority of Ephesians Chapter 4 & 5?

[javapop]

In Ephesians chapter 4 as Paul talks about what the New Life looks like, he lays out what appears to be a structure, beginning with the church, then the witness in the world, then finally the family.

Does Paul give evidence that he is teaching a set of priorities as he orders the subjects (church, witness, family) he addresses?

 

[CryptoLutheran]

It would seem to me that Paul has in mind unity of Christians within the Church as a major theme in these chapters, beginning even earlier in the epistle. Paul isn't outlining a hierarchy of priorities, but exhorting the Christians in Ephesus to be united in their faith in Christ Jesus ("one faith, one hope, on baptism etc"), to refrain from conduct unfitting for a Christian, and to live as a unified people in loving submission to one another--of which the Apostle offers a series of examples which includes husband and wife submitting to one another, which continues on in chapter 6 with children and parents, as well as masters and slaves. Christians are to be a loving, selfless servant people bound together in a unity of love toward one another grounded in faith in Christ and made one by the Holy Spirit, living as a people known for their good works and good conduct.

-CryptoLutheran

 

[javapop]

I was thinking that as well, it appears to be clear. My pastor has been teaching for months that Paul presents an order, with family being at the end, because it is of lesser importance than relationships within the church.
Thanks for the note back! Happy Reformation Day!