I have reviewed quite a number of different evangelism tracts and similar resources. Almost all evangelical tracts make an appeal to accept Jesus by faith and then pray a sinners' prayer. Afterward there is an immediate rush to assure that they are truly saved and will never go to hell. Then there is typically an almost casual mention of "follow up" things to do, which typically include prayer, reading the Bible, and perhaps "gathering together with other Christians."
Anyway, I have always been bothered by the lack of emphasis on ecclesiology. First, there is virtually never a mention of baptism. Second, church is usually only mentioned only offhandedly and is not presented as something required. The WCF rightly says that salvation is normally not possible outside of the visible church - very strong words.
Anyway, I saw this Catholic tract, which clearly affirms the need for church (although objectionable) and also mentions baptism:
http://www.catholicanswers.org/libra...ve_for_you.asp
The mention of baptism is not even offensive, just very much along the lines of Mark 16 ("Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned." Mark 16:16).
While there are obvious problems, I think there is something to be learned here. I will note (having tried) that it is difficult to put an evangelical view of the church in a tract without sounding strange. A person is left with wondering which of the countless denominations he should try. When it is done, the recommendation (it is rarely more than that) is usually for finding one that "believes the bible" or something, as if the convert is capable of discerning that.
Scott
Linear Mode
