My wife used to say that more bees are caught with honey than with vinegar – and it’s true; arguing and confrontation alone seldom attract anyone to Christ. The Bible says, “An offended brother is more unyielding than a fortified city” (Proverbs 18:19).

Instead of arguing with your cousin, therefore, tell him that you’ve been intrigued by his interest in spiritual things, and you would like to have him tell you about his spiritual journey. Be a good listener, and ask God to help you understand why he has taken this path. The Bible tells us to “pay attention and gain understanding” (Proverbs 4:1).

No, you won’t agree with everything he says; in fact, you may disagree with most of it. But try to get beneath the details of what your cousin believes, and discover why he has accepted it. It may be because of the influence of friends; it may be from youthful rebellion; it may be because of a deep spiritual hunger.

Then ask him for permission to tell your own story – your personal testimony of what Jesus Christ means to you, and how He has changed your life. Point out that Christ came to erase the barrier between us and God – a barrier caused by sin. Most of all, pray for him, that he will realize his need of Christ’s forgiveness and new life, and turn to Him in repentance and faith.