The problem with your second point is that we have been doing the very thing you may be suggesting. People confess Jesus (at some level) and are baptized in our churches very quickly. But we never see them again. This is the fruit of a larger problem whose root is buried in the soil of bad doctrine.

What should we do? Jim makes some good suggestions in the article you quoted, though more could be said.

Elliff also said “The dangerous practice of receiving new members immediately after they walk the aisle must finally be abandoned.” Pre-baptism counsel is not evident from the NT. Repent and be baptized. I also think the parable of the sower must be kept in mind. More seed fails than produces lasting fruit.
If discipline, Lord’s Supper, and involvement with the church are means of grace for growth of a believer, wouldn’t it make more sense to bring people into membership upon confession, so that they can be subject to the regular ministry of the church. Delay of acceptance into membership (if membership is that important) seems to be self defeating in promoting maturity.

You said, “If he said church membership and rolls are a human invention that enables us to practice the biblical pattern of church discipline, therefore our rolls should contain only true members; then I would say you’re right.” I have had several conversations with Elliff and know his theology. This is precisely what he would say.