Interesting SC. Do you really think Van Alden was completely misguided? Maybe I'm misreading your point... I read his actions as quite purposeful. I think he saw an opportunity to both save a "heathen" soul and get a confession at the same time. Either that fellow was going to confess to being in cahoots with Nucky or he was going to die. I think Van Alden's a real sort of Knight Templar sort of character. He's creepy and cunning.
I didn't see Van Alden as looking for a confession... he wanted to save the "heathen" soul. He wanted to save someone who never showed any inclination, belief or interest in "being saved". Van Alden freaked when Sebso wasn't clear about his thoughts on heaven. That's WHY he wanted to save Sebso.
I'd say that is misguided. (He's a tea-partyer long before its time ).
). 
