For nearly 30 years, Ethan Hunt has tackled improbable missions and outsmarted the world’s deadliest foes. But his latest challenge hits closer to home: a threat fueled not by bombs or bullets, but by the deepening divisions that fracture our society.
In Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, the (supposedly) final chapter of the franchise, Hunt – played by Tom Cruise – must outmaneuver a rogue, autonomous AI known as The Entity. This digital antagonist doesn’t just seek control over global information systems; it thrives on sowing toxic polarization between people. Division, for The Entity, is not a side effect—it’s the strategy.
That fictional plot has clear nonfictional parallels. We may not be battling a sentient AI, but we are constantly navigating a world shaped by forces that flourish in division. From misinformation to mutual mistrust, today’s cultural landscape often punishes nuance and rewards tribalism. The result? Unity is seen as weakness, and disagreement as disloyalty.
That’s why, in our Peacemaking & Polarization workshop, we explore how the Apostle Paul guided the early church through division. Writing to the Corinthians, a deeply fractured community, Paul reminded them in 1 Corinthians 15:3–5 of their most essential shared truth: the resurrection of Jesus Christ. He didn’t ignore their disagreements, but he anchored them in what mattered most. And that same reminder remains relevant today.
We won’t agree on everything—nor should we. But especially in times of profound tension, it’s vital to return to our shared foundation in Christ. The resurrection isn’t just a theological point; it’s the bedrock of our unity. Let’s not lose sight of what binds us, even as we wrestle with what divides us.
Brandon serves as the Matthew 5:9 Program Director. He views the pursuit of unity as an integral part of his life. For years, he has spoken to diverse groups around the country on various topics, which are often inherently divisive, seeking to bring clarity, compassion, and peace to these conversations. Ultimately, Brandon has sought to engage cultural questions and concerns within the context of Christian hope.
Brandon served as co-chapter director for the Wayne State Ratio Christi chapter. He served on the Stephen Ministry leadership team at Kensington Community Church and occasionally serves alongside Inner City Detroit Cru and Serve the City-Detroit.
Brandon graduated from Michigan State University with a major in Journalism and a minor in Sociology. He completed a Master’s in Christian Apologetics from Biola University and a Master’s of Divinity in Interdisciplinary Studies through Moody Theological Seminary.
Brandon enjoys playing various sports, reading, and writing, but mostly spending time with his three sons, daughter, and his wonderful wife.
