Matthew 19:16 And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? 17 And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.
Back then, in the days of yore, when one asked the all-important question: What must I do to be saved, the answers given by the early Christians were not complicated or long-winded. They were direct, plain and simple so that everyone could understand. The Lord would have us understand that long Bible studies, spanning several months, or years, are not necessarily essential to an individual being baptized.
They could be productive of great good wherever it is possible, and wherever time can afford, but they are not absolutely necessary for an individual to be baptized. Therefore, the following two excerpts coming from the pen of inspiration must be reconciled once and for all, for they are to understood in their contexts.
[Evangelism pp 308] Thorough Preparation for Baptism. There is need of a more thorough preparation on the part of candidates for baptism. They are in need of more faithful instruction than has usually been given them. The principles of the Christian life should be made plain to those who have newly come to the truth. The preparation for baptism is a matter that needs to be carefully considered. The new converts to the truth should be faithfully instructed in the plain “Thus saith the Lord.” The Word of the Lord is to be read and explained to them point by point.
John 8:1 Jesus went unto the mount of Olives. 2 And early in the morning he came again into the temple, and all the people came unto him; and he sat down, and taught them.
May God add His blessing to the study of His word. “Good night” and God bless!