Of all the Apostles Paul seems to be the most controversial one these days but we must never forget he was called and choosen by God. Was Paul willing to remain silent? No.
He asserted his rights as a Roman citizen in Acts 22:25
plus Acts 16:37.
as a free born citizen of Roman. Acts 22:28
The Jewish Leaders and Roman leaders wanted him to stop preaching and ministering but he did not obey their orders he continued on with his preaching and ministering.
Why did Paul spend so much time in Prison it's because he taught people contrary to the law. Acts 18:13,21:28
He also had women teaching and laboring contrary to what the rulers wanted in Romans 16:12. also in other places in Pauls writtings Dorcus , Phoebe, Priscilla etc... All this was contrary to being subject to the rulers in that day. None of them remained silent they continued on. It was said that Paul was martyed because of his refusal to the authorites to stop his ministry his refusal to be silent.

Rethinking Romans 13

http://www.wnd.com/2001/04/8841/