MATTHEW'S AUTISM EXPLAINED! The Chosen Breakdown

[@peculiarpangolin4638]

Matthew's portrayal is one of my favourite parts of The Chosen. I am also autistic, and studying to be a minister, so I found him incredibly relatable (not to mention he's my namesake). I was initially very skeptical about this series when told how good it was, but the humanization of the biblical figures was and is one of the main reasons I love this show. Now, it's not a perfect portrayal of autism, he is played by a neurotypucal actor and it does lean into some stereotypes, but overall, I think it's positive, allows the autistic character actual agency and a character arc, and has allowed others like myself to see themselves in not only the biblical story, but in God's story that continues today, and that's the power of representation like this. It was something that came out of nowhere, and is one of the better depictions of autism in (semi)mainstream media. Thanks to anyone who read all the way through, and have a blessed day! ❤

[@daniellewallace1996]

Thank you for sharing your story. I find it amazing that Matthew is your namesake you, like The Chosen's Matthew are autistic. You are proof of God's incredible sense of humor. Good luck in your journey to becoming a minister. I know that God will empower your path and make you a blessing to many.

[@abbafatherswarriorprincess3627]

@@daniellewallace1996 AMEN. I 100% agree. Truly amazing!

[@Akunda4]

I was most recently diagnosed with Asperger's and being a Christian in communities with this is basically lonely. It's what makes me draw closer to Jesus but it's just so hard to find authentic community when you annoy everyone and have hard time understanding what people say

[@Zackattack65]

So since you are in the spectrum I bet you crave truth so I will open your eyes don't become part of man's religion Christianity was invented by the eastern roman emperor it is mans religion they also inserted pagan concepts into scripture like hades tarsus and hell hell was never in original scriptures get yourself a concordant literal bible it has original greek scripture Christianity teaches you Jesus's work is incomplete without your contributions but it is finished! Christianity rejects jesus because they believe they are their own saviors not jesus because they choose to believe they worship their works themselves and their self righteousness they will come before the lord and say lord I Prophesized in your name and did works in your name and he will say depart from me I never knew you so many will face the second death because of man's religion but after everyone will be reconciled to God at the end of the last age as in adam all die in christ Alllll are made alive jesus gave everyone salvation each in their own order hell is the devils greatest deception it forces people to believe such evil of God God made everyone who they are so why would he punish them for being who they are them being who they are is in fact God's will for he is sovereign and Guides every step we take you can't ever fail God he wrote your life before you were born so please do your historical research before joining mankind's religion and the modern day pharisees jesus was against man's religion Christianity isna mockery to christ but its by God's will some people fall into the trap so they will come to the knowledge of the truth one day and see God's true grace

[@shilohauraable]

I personally love Matthew being on the spectrum! It tells those watching that Jesus loves everyone and recognizes their worth! 💖

[@daniellewallace1996]

I will be personally disappointed if the real Matthew wasn't really autistic. It makes so much sense.

[@soundmaster4320]

Realistically Jesus would have delivered and set Matthew free if that was the case. But this is a false narrative. Matthew wasn’t on the “spectrum” and even if he was Jesus is the deliverer and healer

[@davidhjort7771]

amen @@soundmaster4320

[@Eviyl]

@@soundmaster4320being on the spectrum isn’t something that needs to be healed

[@doloressefabre9908]

❤❤❤❤❤ ce sont les troubles qui doivent être guéris pas l'autisme

[@cindyheazlit938]

Dallas has a child on the spectrum, so he has personally witnessed how the church reacts to it. Sadly, neurotypical church members can “other” those on the spectrum, and even infantilise them. For many, an autistic person needs to be coddled and protected. They don’t seem to get that many on the spectrum are fully functional and hiding their condition in plain sight. It’s well past time for the church to welcome people not as projects but as equal that can contribute to the ministry.

[@kellyhayden932]

As a grandmother of an autistic grandson I pick up on little things he would do with his hands and how he was moving his hands and head as well my grandson live with me ful time and I learn a t in ten years about autism an an glad that the chosen putt one of Jesus men was one an glad to see in this show Tank you for in doing so an as always GOD bless you all

[@itsdune079]

I am neurodivergent in that I have ADHD and a bunch of “abnormal psychology” mental illnesses, and I feel so blessed to attend and serve in a church that has so many people who also have ADHD (and are open about it). A lot of these people in my church serve in it (either volunteers and staff), and ADHD is most definitely not demonised or ostracised, there. Nor is having mental illnesses or taking psychiatric medication. It’s so beautiful!

[@HigherCallingCakes]

Matthew’s character portrayal moves me each episode. I’m autistic and it’s really helped me see myself with more compassion. He creates us each with gifts. Though it is definitely a cross, I have learned to love my difference. 😊 great job chosen team.

[@tonijones3167]

I feel for Matthew because , he was 13 yrs old when his parents disowned him, and did he know the full ramifications of what he was doing?

[@languageliterature9413]

Exactly. This is why I would like to see his back story. What was it like for him growing up in a Jewish home? Did he feel loved and accepted? Was it a rigid home? So much to unpack with his character.

[@megrogan1]

How do you figure his age ?

[@isiomaifesanya]

@@megrogan1in the series, Matthew was 13 when he built his first house

[@Vampirebloodthirst]

I have brain damage from being oxygen deprived the day I was born and while I can somewhat relate to some of the things with Mary Magdala and Nathaniel I relate to Matthew the most

[@sandiefrankenstein8972]

I personally feel having Matthew being on the spectrum is brilliant writing and planning. It has opened so many many doors for the story lines and will continue to do so until S7E8.

[@georgehennen507]

@@renegarcia8876 brother, sister. Rewatch the video. It’s the autism spectrum.

[@yuno0_]

@@renegarcia8876 what??

[@daniellewallace1996]

I was initially upset about this decision because I thought that it deviated too much from what is written in the Bible. I have since realized that I love the decision. I feel that it makes total sense. I also love the way The Snipe Life explains why this creative choice makes sense. I love his arguments. I'll actually be a little disappointed if, upon getting to Heaven, I find out that the real Matthew wasn't actually autistic.

[@MelB868]

There’s only 3 seasons right now

[@MelB868]

@@daniellewallace1996nah it was what it was

[@mariemonsalve6533]

Matthew is so beautifully complicated. I love that Dallas decided to explore this plausible direction. And Parras is the perfect choice for Matthew. He brings out so many parts of his character with subtle nuances. I say “bravo.”

[@BureauATF]

Being on the spectrum myself, I love how they have portrayed Matthew in that way. The actor, Paras Patel, does an absolutely brilliant job in portraying the mannerisms and awkwardness. As for the people that are offended that he would be cast as having a disability, they clearly know nothing of Asperger's Syndrome. It is in no way a disability, but rather it just described a way in which the brain can function in a certain atypical way. If anything, Asperger's is a super power. Once somebody with Asperger's grows out of adolescence and learns to operate in social environments, they are able to work past the negative aspects of it and allow the positive ones to shine. If being brilliant, objective, creative, logical and calculated in your ways is a disability, well, I don't even know.

[@serenityh.]

When I was eight years old, I was diagnosed with Aspergers and didn’t find out until a couples years ago when I was 16. When I found out, I was actually relieved and it made a lot of sense considering certain characteristics traits that I have. I would say as someone on the spectrum, not everyone on the spectrum acts exactly the same, but do have similarities for sure. I appreciated this because even though it doesn’t apply to Scripture in the book of Matthew, it shows people that Jesus lives everyone, included people with any mental situation. ☺️

[@UnclePengy]

It was a relief when I figured it out in my 50s. Before then it was just "why does everyone thing I'm so weird?" Then someone suggested I might be AS, and I suddenly had a name for the burden that I lived with, I could understand the symptoms and could use the intellect that also came with it (the curse that comes with a blessing!) to teach myself ways to improve myself.

[@soundmaster4320]

Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ is the deliverer and healer. I pray any curses that were set upon you as a child be set free in the name of Jesus. That the spirit of Asperger’s be set free and released out in the name of Jesus. I to have been told I’m on the spectrum of being autistic but I rebuked that as I will not accept anything ungodly. Rejoice in our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ

[@Lord9Genesis]

Like most, Matthew is now one of my favorites (my youngest son is 20 and is non-verbal autistic at the moment.) What really stands out though is how he and all the disciples are portrayed as young twenty somethings. It brings a fresh outlook on what it would have meant to follow Jesus in one's youth and "grow up" with Jesus.

[@1950sbaker]

I believe and some historians believed that the disciples were definitely young when they met Jesus. They weren't middle aged mid 40s plus something nor old and gray, like most Jesus films and series portray , during that time. They were probably older when they were already preaching gospel on other places, years after Jesus's resurrection.

[@we.are.all.barabbas]

Yes because historically they were a bunch of teenagers. John was 16 or younger, more likely

[@rethaf4387]

Historically, students of a rabbi were usually teenagers. We have to start with that assumption until the text tells us otherwise. The text tells us otherwise for Peter, and for maybe one other disciple: 1) Peter had a mother-in-law (healed in one of Jesus' miracles), so he was married - Jewish boys could marry at 18 at the time. Also, Jesus once got money from a fish's mouth to pay a religious tax for himself and Peter - not the other disciples. The Old Testament tells us men over 20 had to pay that text. 2) One of the disciples was called "James the elder". Some think this makes him old. But it probably only distinguishes him from the other disciple called James, making him the older of the two.

[@languageliterature9413]

I love Matthew's character, and the plausible way that he is portrayed. I don't think it's doing any harm. When I look at Matthew, I don't see a bad guy, but a sinner like all the other disciples. I think because people like him didn't fit in at that time (as they rarely do today). There was no place for him in Jewish culture...or so Matthew felt. Thus, he turned to where he felt accepted. We do this all the time. Many people choose careers or lifestyles that their parents, family or community do not agree with. Many are put out of the home because of it. Granted acts of ANY sin are just WRONG, for the individual doing it, it's sometimes from a place of fitting in or wanting to be accepted and not because they're just naturally bad. I also think Matthews character speaks to what the church lacks, and that's the opportunity for people to use their gifts and talents in church, without having to go to the secular world where they feel accepted. This is why I think Matthew's character is relateable and the most complex for discourse. 😁🤗

[@kevlarson2141]

Every apostle was in survival mode when Christ came into play. Even someone with autism can grasp that lifestyle. Its the bible picking all walks of life saying "this involves all who listen".

[@Darlene5541]

I love how they have brought Matthews character out! After watching this I have an opened mind. This series is completely different than anything I’ve ever watched. I love it! Matthew is my favorite character ❤

[@daniellewallace1996]

Matthew and Gaius are my favorites. I want more scenes between them in future seasons.

[@elizabethdurbin3255]

My son has Aspergers. And I can see that Matthew could have had Asperger. My son was always interested in computers.

[@ChrissiesPurpleLibrary]

God Bless you brother! Love what you are doing on your platform. God's hand is upon this show!

[@laurawilson5666]

I really like that Matthew is different like this because I often wish for someone to relate to in that way. I am learning disabled and it's been really hard and lonely road no matter how many friends I have or how many people like me. It's hard for others to "get me" and I often find myself wondering why I couldn't just be normal and do the things a normal adult gets to do. I'm glad Matthew can repesent that for those of us who aren't "normal" or whatever you want to say.....

[@daniellewallace1996]

Matthew being autistic makes so much sense as explained in this video. It also allowed Matthew to stand out. He would have just faded into the background if he were neurotypical. His uniqueness makes him a memorable and relatable character.

[@kathlenereents2494]

i think that "the chosen" is the best show I have watched about jesus' life

[@natashacain4458]

My son is on the spectrum for autism and when I watched The Chosen and saw Matthew, instantly I picked up that he was on the spectrum. At least through the show. On a personal level I love the idea as well, it hits close to home for a lot of us, also my son who is 7 is interested by the show, and makes sure to tell me to let him know when I watch “The God movie” (The Chosen) so that he can watch too. Our salvation is important, and I’m excited about what the creators of The Chosen are doing. So thank you for highlighting how life is for some. And how Jesus loves us and redeems us regardless if we allow Him to.❤

[@theyellowshoe]

When Matthew was "introduced", then as I saw more of him, I thought of OCD.

[@Melora84]

It’s possible. A lot of people on the spectrum do share some traits with ocd or ADD.

[@larrywhartenby3342]

I think Matthew appeals as well to people who are or have been bullied whether physically or verbally. Watching him deal with that and puzzle his way through it all inspires anyone who is in the same situation.

[@v1e1r1g1e1]

The Matthew as characterised in the series ''The Chosen'' is neither historically correct, nor a fair representation of autism. If anything, The Chosen's Matthew is a person with Aspergers Syndrome. Very different.

[@michaelcrawford678]

Mathew is an amazing character. ..of the 4 gospels it is my favorite... brilliant charactor.... The actor the plays Jesus makes me 😢... so like the Jesus I have always believed in...

[@RantzBizGroup]

This would have been EXTREMELY rare in this time period...

[@dianam4708]

I disagreed with Matthew being "on the spectrum" because you would have to explain why greed, and multitasking aren't normal. Money can be a powerful incentive, and it was for many who gave in to, for example, Hellenization. In addition, you had to be organized to be an efficient tax collector, and I think Matthew's Gospel reflects that organization. These things are not proof of anyone being "on the spectrum." It might be comforting for people watching the show to hear the creator of it suggest that Matthew might be "on the spectrum," but dangerous because it can lead to the believe that GOD made me this way or that way and that's all there is to it. In Luke 4:40, the Bible says Jesus "healed them," and I think that needs to be our expectation today--even when it's not an immediate reality. In the end, I don't think portraying Matthew as The Chosen does hurts anything because it can all be explained--even the comment made by Peter about Matthew being "a little off." Think about it. Tax collectors probably didn't get a lot of sleep, and we'd all be "a little off" if we only slept a couple of hours a night--if that much ... waiting for a Zealot to break in.

[@tkic3164]

I think it's a neat choice and the actor certainly does a fantastic job portraying it. Whether it's true or not, I'm sure the actual Matthew doesn't mind.

[@daniellewallace1996]

I will be truly disappointed if the real Matthew wasn't really autistic.

[@lnspotts1]

Our son was diagnosed with ASD this past year, and I myself have ADHD. Seeing Matthew in this show resonates with me so much. Seeing that God can literally use anyone, that we serve a purpose in the way He made us, it's overwhelming. I'm so thankful they did this.

[@josephmcbride-gc5fo]

I will say this if you need this movie to show you that God can literally use anyone then I feel sorrow for you. Because God did not or does not need Dallas Jenkins or anyone for that matter to show that He can use anyone . Read the Bible God has murderers, serial killers , every form of depravity in the Bible whether it's the writers or just the people in the stories either way The scriptures are very clear that God does use anyone and He didn't have to put a disciple in there with Autism to show us that. Come back to the True Gospel of Jesus Christ.

[@soundmaster4320]

Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ is the deliverer and healer. I pray any curses that were set upon you and your child be set free in the name of Jesus. I pray That the spirit of ADHD be set free and released out in the name of Jesus. I to have been told I’m on the spectrum of being autistic but I rebuked that as I will not accept anything ungodly. Rejoice in our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ

[@soundmaster4320]

Also realistically Jesus would have delivered and set Matthew free if that was the case. But this is a false narrative. Matthew wasn’t on the “spectrum” and even if he was Jesus is the deliverer and healer. This is not from the gospel. It is purely put in the show just for todays world that we live in. But God has set as apart from the world. So I also pray the God gives you and your family discernment and may you seek the real Jesus of the gospel may He deliver you and your son in Jesus name. Amen. God bless you and your family.

[@lnspotts1]

Being on the spectrum and having ADHD are not ungodly. They are not curses on me or my son. We are exactly as God has created us to be and will use us to His glory exactly as we are in this way. @@soundmaster4320

[@petrat76]

I havent been around much lately but just binged some of the videos I missed. One of the reasons I haven't been around is that all things are going full steam ahead with my adoption. I am adopting a little boy with an autism diagnosis, I am also neurodivergent (ADHD, Dyslexic) so as you can imagine I love Matthew representing our community. You mention Peter as being a bit bi-polar, I see him as ADHD and possibly Dyslexic (He always used a scribe when he wrote!) The poor impulse control followed by deep remorse is evident in many of the stories about him, I identify with him a lot (I would likely have jumped out of the boat and then regretted it too lol, not through faith but impulsivity🤣

[@graymatter9431]

I love the fact that they made Matthew Autistic, I’m autistic so I find myself relating to him allot, it makes the experience so much more better and understanding when I watch it. Now I read my Bible and know that Matthew probably isn’t autistic, but it’s not a big deal to make him one for the show, because back then no one knew if it existed or if they had it. So it’s great to put in it the show, it adds allot of realism. Because maybe someone in the Bible was autistic. We will never know. I love the portrayal of autism in the show, because it’s very authentic and accurate, except for the math and numbers stuff, not every autistic person is good with numbers, I know I’m not.

[@an_anishinaabe_son]

Please bare with me... The Book of Matthew says his name was Matthew, but the Book of Luke says his name was Levi. I believe the later, i believe his name was Levi. So the question is...why? Levi was a common name for a descendant of Levi, son of Jacob. The descendants of Levi, were called Levites. The higher ranking Levites were Cohanim (sons of Aaron). Remember, Aaron and his sister Miraim were Levites, as was their younger brother, Moses. Yet, Aaron was the eldest son and received the birthright. When Cohanim and the other Levites were not in-Temple, doing their scheduled service (called a "Course"), they did other occupations. Cohanim and the other Levites are of the priestly class and were well educated. When Cohanim and the other Levites were not busy in their scheduled Temple service (which it was not a regular occurance for most), they held other responsible stations as befits someone of the priestly class---such as: physician, judge, sheriff, and, um, [coughes] tax collector (says quietly so it's hard for others to hear). Anywhere the Romans conquered, the priestly class of those conquered were honoured (a necessity in-order to govern conquered people-- and conquering and humbling their priestly class was a must, so the Romans could control everyone else). Part of honouring the priestly class meant the Romans offered positions of trust in the empire to those of the priestly class (again, for command and control purposes). It would have been a great honour for a Cohan or other Levite to be invited to become a tax collector, and, after all, nothing feels better to a Jew than to be ordered to volunteer to perform a hated role in Jewish society (please note my sarcasm)! 😉 Only a member of the priestly class would have been "asked" to be a tax collector in a conquered society which posseses a priestly class. Levi (aka.."Matthew" as per Gentile tradition) was either one of the Cohanim or other Levite. I hope what I wrote above helps folks to understand the mind and heart of Jews (and their relationship with Rome). Autographed, your servant, ~ Sebastian (a son of Aaron)

[@SueProv]

I think it's fine if Mattew is on the spectrum. I just accept it. Paras does an incredible job and it's a beautiful way that we can all experience how Jesus would embrace each of us in our weakness.

[@ChersJourney]

I found it endearing. I just thought he was a shy , nervous person like me- i didn’t think about it until my sister brought it up,

[@TattedChristian]

Loved this until u mentioned bipolar. U don't understand it. Please do some research.

[@pattis6018]

I was diagnosed as an adult. I had and still have issues with it. I’m not social and usually ignored. I didn’t receive the diagnosis until I was in my 50’s. I get Matthew.

[@alexd9425]

I may be looked down on this but I believe it is spelled CAREER not CARRER at 0:31.

[@saadiaduplechin7760]

I'm not autistic but I love Matthew, he is my favorite character in this show. I know the Bible doesn't show his characteristics, but Dallas and his team are doing a great job!

[@bfkirk]

Well done sir! Great insights.

[@cringecande_9352]

im going to be honest for a couple years now i have known myself to not really be very religious but ever since i started going to this catholic school we have been watching this show and as someone with autism seeing Matthew was really relatable for me. im still a little doubtful about god but i truly do want to learn and the chosen has given me a chance to do so

[@deistar1063]

I'm on the spectrum, and God used the Chosen to show me I was valued in his eyes. I'm not the only one who struggles with understanding the Bible. It's a struggle to connect with people my age at my church(I'm 20-^-). Seeing a possibility of one of Jesus' followers being Autistic was amazing....it shows how he sees us for us- and nothing less than that.

[@juliazalewski3023]

Please don’t refer to autism/ADHD as mental health issues. They are different neurotypes. There is nothing wrong with us. We are simply different from the norm.

[@masonr1666]

The way I see it "normal" is bad terminology. Instead of "normal" we should replace it with "average." Having autism, ADHD, depression, and other things means you are not average.

[@joelhodroff5648]

Thank you for all of your thoughtful commentary on this subject, reaching to scripture, reaching to support the neurodiverse community, reaching to assist the audience of The Chosen. Rock on!

[@dianacharleneneuda8177]

Watching from Philippines 💕

[@julieviola6787]

I just love Matthew ❤ he is so cute 😍 but he is so smart and he is one of my favorite characters!

[@anthonyparsons9412]

Me personally, I LOVE how they portrayed Matthew, it definitely made him more personable and hard to NOT like !!!

[@gerryhatrick6678]

I think this is a good thing. I think it will draw in an entire demographic that might not otherwise watch. If they hear about it and watch....well then that is in line with the entire COME AND SEE purpose to reach ALL of God's children.

[@annalee8968]

Gospel should be focused on the life of Jesus and He came to reveal the Father. Jesus came to die for the sin of the world and revealed the kingdom of God. We have empathy for the autistic community but turning the Gospel focus on Humanizing man message VS spiritual message of Jesus is misleading the importance of the Gospel.

[@snoopysplayhousesurprises8938]

@RanzBizGroup not necessarily So because of genetics! Not blaming Foods or Vaxx leaves Still the Components of Genes! What in those days had impact on mutations is Questionable but weather a illness in parent or Gene Could make it questionable

[@cabellero1120]

No. He was not In Scripture, If someone had an infirmity, It was stated, clearly Jesus healed Many sick and disabled people. There was No mention of Matthew or Any of the Apostles being disabled. Our greatest potential isn't just IN Christ, It IS Christ! While it's true God chose Moses, who wasn't learned nor smart, He wasn't " disabled" Social politics do Not belong here!

[@yulisarose3846]

I personally think they did an amazing Job on the series The Chosen and agree what is said in this video ! We didn’t know waht they were like back then and it dose humanize them and as he said as a n example like Matthew in the show back then nobody knew the difference between certain illnesses as we do now and to me personally it has no effect on what i feel about Scripture and or salvation i just tgis they made the show great in detail as to how the characters lives may have been like in other words a great story but as for the teachings of what the lord did and what we need to learn i think they did amazing and great work and again i personally luv this series ❤ I hope more seasons come soon and quickly I am fascinated with this series! Its made me smile sad cry and happy seeing what Jesus was doing and how he helped ppl back then wit there illnesses and saving their souls and teaching them Heavenly Fathers gospel And i also luv Matthews character in the show how he went from doing wrong and changing his life to follow Jesus Christ and do what is right and making his parents proud of him for giving up the life style he had and the way he gave up all his stuff his wealth to live more modest and follow Jesus and do whats right ! ❤

[@therealsilverking4802]

a guy named MATHew (matthew) was good at math. God works in mysterious ways.

[@lukecortez3861]

Is this post about God working in mysterious ways sarcasm? Because there is absolutely no correlation between his name sounding like math and him being good at math. Matthew is the English translation from Greek and Hebrew, not the original...

[@therealsilverking4802]

@@lukecortez3861 It was sarcasm.

[@bobtheduck]

I said before my favorite (non-Jesus, obviously) character in the Gospels is John. My favorite character in the Chosen is Matthew.

[@Minecraft2Mama]

Before knowing this... I honestly thought that Matthew could have been autistic... I mean think about it no one til now knows what autism is... It would have been very possible for Matthew...

[@thesis-and-nieces6722]

It just looks like the chosen wanted DEI, virtue signal injected into the show, any way to put a diversity hire character in. It was probably easier to go this route then to come to terms that matthew was a thinker but also could leave his tax position for Jesus. It doesn’t hurt the show with Matthew, he is quirky for sure and they played it out great when peter forgave him. There are more egregious in the chosen like Jesus learning his sermon from Matthew

[@JiovanniCintron]

They got to do a better beard job for those future scenes 😂

[@user-uv1db2pd2t]

Being an outcast from early on , he is mainly socially awkward . he just doesn't connect with people very well .

[@_abracadabra]

I'm wary of imposing a modern-day construct like "autism" onto someone from an ancient society. That said, I appreciate the depth and singularity that Paras Patel brings to his portrayal of Matthew.

[@pattyhudspeth2576]

I really don't 👀 anything with having Mathew having autism. I have a nephew with asburgers. I myself have a disability. So I feel like I can relate to Mathew & little James. I also know theare are alot of people who also can relate to them. God bless Mr. Dallas jinkens & all of the actors who have the courage to stand up & say. Theade are real things that people have to deal with on a day-to-day basis. & in this movie. Weare going to show you what it's like how they feel & how people treat someone with a disability & hoe they deal with it. So I'm heare to let you know. When when you treat people like theare less than what they are. It really hurts the heart ❤️. What's worse is that when you treat annyone like that. It hurts God's heart ❤️ as well. I'll get off my soap box now. This is just food for thought. May God bless all of you. Ps. When you watch teens like this. Please watch it threw the eyes 👀 of the heart. Not threw the eyes 👀 of entertainment. Good bye.

[@Mochii_waffles]

It would have made sense if it is true. Autistic ppl have an ability to be super super laser focused on certain things. Coding and anything with math are good examples. It comes through in his writing. Very detail orientated and thorough.

[@rosinaampah7963]

You are correct about this!!!

[@Stroudtucson]

Definitely a GREAT choice to portray Matthew as on the spectrum. It brought many more people into the series and gave his character so much more depth. At the end of the day, this is a TV series and it needs to be interesting and engaging to draw people in so that they choose to follow up and read the Bible and/or just desire to know more about Jesus' story.

[@meganchristian7085]

First of all - let me tell you all something - Matthew ( On The Chosen ) Is not representative of all individuals with autism and /or the on the autism spectrum - I should know !!! I am a person with autism ( Though not Aspergers because even though people use that it interchange-ably with autism -it's really not- People with autism often have language delays when they are younger and those with Aspergers do not) - Also, not all individuals with autism are detailed oriented or great or excellent at math ( in addition to being a person with autism ) I also have learning disabilities ( Math being one of them) + OCD - also well, it's good that see Matthew as an essential part of the bigger story ( and he is many ways as is Mary , Jesus's Mother, Mary Magadalene , and many of the others who interacted with our Lord and Savior ) It's very unlikely and the new Testament does not much him being on the autism spectrum ( Although some aspects wouldn't supsurise me) - Also , I am thirty-eight years old. ( So I have been around a while) - I was a person when I was much much much younger that would have been one of those individuals with autism who would have been highly impacted - so Impacted that the so called experts in our local San Diego Unified School District wanted me in a servely Handicapped class ( With zero curriculum at the time) after all the communicately handicapped classrooms taught be speech and language pathologists closed - Thank goodness my parents decided to fully include me ( Even though it wasn't always ) Easy - Peoples told my now elderly sixty-nine year old mother that she was a mother in denial ( She replied - I 've never been to egypt) - They told her that I would never learn how to read or even graduate from high school with a real high school diploma ( Which I did - James Madison High school - class of 2003- Go Warhawks) - Today ( So far ) I have currently earned three college degrees including a master's degree in Special Education ( I Plan on eventually going back for a Ph.d in Disability policy and then Perhaps a second Ph.d in Psychology and Counseling to counsel other individuals with autism) ( also back at Mesa Taking swimming working towards becoming a certified lifeguard and swimming instructor at The Aqua Pros Swimming school to teach individuals with autism how to swim) - And also an Independent Facilaitor for SDP as well as an SDP Participant as well ( and doing many other things as well in the process) - When I was eighteen or Nineteen years old - My Mom took me to my very 01st autism conference at USD And the peoples there who would have been diagnosed with Asperger ( Pre DSM IV) DSM Stands for the Diagnostic and Statsicial Manual of Mental Disorders - were so militia to be called "AUTISTIC" and left no room for other persepctives - they even said that anyone who disagreed with them on their peremsis ( and this was the gensius of People first language versus Identity first language ) and how I became very and extra passionate about people first language - as the microphone was going around ( and my mom) Very apprhensive of what I might say or how I might respond ( But I stood up and said very respectfully my piece about why I had come to prefer people first language ) and then a woman in the audience very rudely jumped down my thorat about why I need to read an article by so and so and why a person who is blind wants to be called a blind person and not a person with blindness - as it turns out we had to evucuate because the fire alarm went off - also as my mom often reminds me alot of peoples came up to me and thanked me for standing my ground - although the sadness that day was not for myself -but for my mother who had tears of sorrow streaming down her face after she thought she was taking me to a place of acceptance with like minded peoples - and then there was a time that The National Autism Conference came to San Diego and we were in a breakout session and a woman ( Who again pervious to DSM IV Would have been perviously diagnosed with Asperger ) Stood up and announced in a room full of peoples " I MAYBE ON THE SPECTRUM, ( Meaning under the umbrella of the Autism Spectrum) BUT AT LEAST I HAVE INTELLECT" - all this and that I said - I think our lord and savior was also the 01st full inclusionist - no wonder the writers thought to have the Character of Matthew ( The misfit taxcollector ) on the autism spectrum.

[@oniecoleman7646]

Thank u for letting us know, I think this makes the show more natural, it sure caused me to continue watching, not only was I curious about Matthew’s behavior, but realizing why it was done, causes me to never miss an episode. I love it.

[@julieviola6787]

There is just something I just don't understand about Matthew. Now if he really has Autism in the movie of The Chosen I did notice that Matthew moved his head and body in certain ways, but when I saw him being interviewed he looked absolutely fine and he was not making any of those movements with his head or body. He happens to be one of my favorite characters ❤ ❤❤ and I do feel bad for him, I do hope that he does give his life to the Lord Jesus Christ 🙏 🙏🙏✝️✝️✝️

[@howardross5297]

My name is Matthew -- Howard Matthew. As the visionaries in Medjugorie explain people are like the person in the Bible they are named after. I applaud The Chosen in explaining Matthew as on the spectrum. I am too. I may not be as good looking as Mr. Patel (ha), but l am so like the character he portrays.

[@Divinelywriting]

Whether Matthew really was on the spectrum or not, this has been the best portrayal of being on the spectrum. I never see anyone hold their arms up to their chest all the time and that was something I always did and still do when I get too comfortable around people. I’ve conditioned myself to not do it as often as I noticed how I was the only who did that. It made me self conscious. I still close my hands the way he does for comfort but I’m always aware of how my arms are placed.

[@dambigfoot6844]

There are several scenes that annoy me when it comes to Matthew. Its very in your face that they are portraying Matthew as being stereotypical Autistic. Just from the way the camera shows his hands stimming and picking up food with a cloth, to his Quintus and Gaius interactions. To the average person maybe they will see this portrayal of Matthew as relating to a nerdy person but to those who are either on the spectrum or know about the spectrum will see this as obvious. I have Aspergers Syndrome and recognized things and found this video by looking up "The Chosen Matthew Autism".

[@ivanj.conway9919]

Well then, what about the possibility that Christ Himself, was delusional?! If we intend to go in this direction we should be open to that possibility as well.

[@mariaval9655]

I think Matthew's character works well with being on the spectrum. As an aunt of 3 nephews and 1 grandson on the autism spectrum, I find it highly inclusive in a very compatible way.😊

[@dreamingofvenus]

I really appreciate the writers deciding to portray Matthew as autistic. It is another small yet significant detail that shows Jesus’ disciples were people of all kinds-including people who were not “neurotypical.” I personally believe that it was plausible for Matthew to have autism due to, how you said, certain things are detailed in his book, like the genealogy. As a Christian who has ADHD and an anxiety disorder, I am grateful that they made this decision for the show. It shows me, and I am sure many other viewers in similar situations, that our Lord wants us how we are, no matter our mental or physical circumstances.

[@patsycarey9093]

I immediately thought Matthew was probably both very gifted and autistic. His mathematical abilities were off the charts, along with his inability to relate to others, have eye contact and comprehend social situations. This actor is phenomenal! Jesus chose, and chooses ALL who will follow him regardless. None of us are worthy or perfect yet in Christ Jesus, we are saved, forgiven, and made whole.

[@DavidJones-ph3if]

Bravo Dallas Jenkins!!! Shining light on people on the spectrum even if by accident is brilliant.❤❤❤

[@blam9360]

I can't say that I love Matthew being autistic, but I don't hate it, either. I think it's a very interesting take and the actors portrayal of an autistic person is very on point. But I rather appreciate quite a lot of Matthew's difference and I feel it gives a different view of Jesus' compassion to all humanity, which is important to see.

[@janeschira8285]

I like that Matthew is portrayed as on the Autism Spectrum. I am a special education teacher so it makes perfect sense that someone with social/emotional differences could choose to be a tax collector. I know from working with my students that people on the Spectrum tend to be concrete in their thinking. Therefore an ancient Hebrew on the Spectrum would be very detailed in many things, but not completely understand the social consequences of his choice to be a tax collector until after the fact. Dallas says in his videos all the time that the Chosen is not scripture. I see nothing wrong with making inferences based on the context of the time and place when these people lived. I also agree that this is good for people on the Spectrum to see themselves represented.

[@jeansirbaugh3616]

Personally I would be surprised if Matthew wasn't autistic in reality he hit home so much autism is in my family children grandchildren my husband Matthew helps me to understand where they're coming from and why Jesus loved them and where I should be a lot more forgiving God's blessing on this whole endeavor for me I am grateful to God for helping his children to understand him and his children love and respect is what we all deserve and need thank you in God's blessings

[@SlicerJen]

My son has autism but he is very empathetic, when he is made aware of things. It really makes history immersive to add these details or at least extrapolate plausible facts.

[@fulton560]

Matthew is who kept me engaged. I have no experience with religion and this show opened a door to something I needed. If it wasn’t for how Matthew was portrayed, I’d have likely found it boring and moved on to something else,

[@annapodsiado381]

As someone with ADHD-C and OCD, I couldn't be more grateful for Matthew's portrayal! Alongside Simon Peter (which - and I don't mean just in the show, but in the Bible - has SO MANY ADHD-like kind of behaviors, I just love the man 😂❤️), Nathaniel and Mary Magdalene, he's the one I relate to most, and seeing another neurodivergent (-s?) being so loved and cherished and wanted by our God - it just beings a new level of warmth to my heart and it means the world to people like us. We love our Lord with all our hearts, souls and mights too. We want to serve Him too. Our differences can be seen as gifts and blessings too. We belong just as much as the neurotypical folks do.

[@firewolf1861]

As an autistic male I barley see any representation in movies and tv and when I do they ethier don’t mention it or make the character the punching bag so I’m glad that they put Mathew on the spectrum it makes me feel better about myself it’s not much but it’s the little things that matter and if u have a problem with him on the spectrum and changing something look at Disney and how they are changing everything about their story’s and the ppl that talk out about it get called racist Jesus love’s everyone no matter what no matter skin color disability mental illness we are all his children…..sorry random rant over long story short I’m glad we get some representation

[@BrotherCam]

If you are reading this right now, it doesn't matter who you are or what you have done in your life, if you are currently reading this, please be saved today, there's no more time to waste, time to waste is up and done! It's the best decision you'll make in your entire life and eternity; accepting CHRIST JESUS as your LORD AND SAVIOUR KING GOD MESSIAH and EVERYTHING! This is the Gospel; The LORD KING JESUS CHRIST loves you so so much that He came down from Heaven, lived the perfect life that we cannot live by ourselves, He died on a cross at Calvary for you, me, and ALL of us and ALL of our sins, and He rose again from the grave 3 days afterwards, conquering death, hell, sin, the devil, all evil, and condemnation. He's waiting for you to accept Him and come to Him with open arms in a genuine personal relationship and there's no other love ever like His since He loves you eternally and infinitely so believe in the FATHER YHWH JEHOVAH and the Son whom He sent and is JESUS CHRIST THE LORD GOD KING JESUS CHRIST YESHUA HAMASHIACH, receiving and believing also in His and The HOLY SPIRIT GOD ALMIGHTY that will dwell in you, change you, lead you, guide you, and be your absolute best friend as GOD the HOLY SPIRIT just alongside CHRIST JESUS the Son Of GOD being GOD incarnate, also , which those 3 together make the HOLY TRINITY; GOD THE FATHER YHWH JEHOVAH, GOD THE SON CHRIST JESUS YESHUA HAMASHIACH, AND GOD THE HOLY SPIRIT, the one and only true GOD whom are all 100% GOD in the HOLY TRINITY. I love you but nowhere near as much as GOD. Repent by believing in the LORD GOD KING JESUS CHRIST and thou shalt be saved, and once you tell JESUS that you believe in Him and genuinely trust in Him by inviting Him into your heart, you are sealed unto the Day of Redemption and you cannot lose your salvation in CHRIST JESUS and He will help you live for Him with His HOLY SPIRIT Amen, the Rapture is the Day of Redemption also which is so extremely very soon and He does not want you or anybody to be left behind nor me nor you do. GOD bless you and KING JESUS CHRIST IS LORD GOD. ✝️👑🦁🕍💒🙌🏻🙏🏻❤️❤️‍🔥💞💯💖 John 3:16 (KJV) - 16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 14:6 (KJV) - 6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. Romans 10:9-10 (KJV) - 9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. Ephesians 2:8-9 (KJV) - 8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

[@raegladden3317]

I feel it's a little roo extreme. I don't see him outside of Matthew being outside of the Spectrum.

[@rosemaryvorel4592]

I thought it was a brilliant choice and as I've taught many on the spectrum, scripted so well.

[@bobbyhempel1513]

I always thought that Matthew seemed different when I was reading his gospel, the details he mentioned and the way he wrote made me think of somebody with a different way of thinking and I somehow connected with him even though as far as I know I'm not on the Spectrum I do think differently than most people I know.

[@barbarakight4852]

I love Mathew as he is portrayed. Due to facts we do know about him it is possable he was autistic.

[@Rzman-mq1nk]

I think it is awesome to see that even back in those times people had mental issues. And that God uses who ever he chooses as a leader, or a follower. Good input my man.

[@SaritaJaramillo-om9qf]

No se si sera coincidencia,pero un poco despues de saber que tenia autismo debido a medicos que me lo dijieron descubri esta serie y un poco despues supe que habian hecho a Matheo autista y eso me a ayudado a no sentirme sola.

[@GoldenFleece148]

I don’t think the view on tax collectors has changed since then😂

[@edithchambers9187]

Personally it makes Jesus more a people person not interested in what person is labeled

[@priscillajimenez27]

I remember when I saw the first episode and was intrigued by Matthew and figured he probably had aspergers. Even my grandma found him interesting, amusing, and kinda adorable.

[@zerocool1344]

I believe God will allow truths, and just maybe Matthew was.

[@clintonlagdameo5452]

0:31 Whoops. Typo. Can that still be fixed?

[@RayaLPS]

I have Autism and the first time I saw the chosen I knew that Matthew is on the spectrum ❤

[@BlackCoffeeee]

I'm trying to imagine the argument against Matthew being on the spectrum...and I can't see why it's a bad thing. What would be the problem with this?

[@oag2167]

I could see why people would see this portrayal as a problem; it hasn't been historically confirmed Matthew truly had autism. It's adding things to the Bible that aren't there. That being said, I truly do love the idea behind The Chosen and plenty of scenes from it.

[@eznewmones7188]

Does the Bible say anything about Matthew being autistic??

[@kathiehoskins4711]

Mathew is my favorite character. The writing and acting of his character is completely believable.

[@N.E.U.R.O]

I love this, as someone on the spectrum I battle with what the world expects of me vs what my skills and natural abilities are, we all have unique ways to shine

[@doggoneit8341]

Matthew is my favorite character

[@Anti-CornLawLeague]

Someone wagging their finger at the idea. 😂

[@bellct4980]

as soon as i began watching i could tell.

[@MelB868]

He has Aspergers on the show the chosen I have that too.

[@matthewb9955]

I don’t understand why people think he’s autistic. Just because the creators said that’s how they are portraying him? Does it say in the show that he’s autistic, did I miss that part?

[@TheSnipeLife]

The creator has said that he’s on the spectrum in the show yes