How a Christian Should Respond to Government?

Ancient China, during  what is know as the Spring and Autumn Period was a turbulent place. While at time of economic and infrastructure development, it was also a period of conflict and intrigue - an era that saw the flowering of Chinese philosophy which sought largely to answer the question of how society and government should be ordered to achieve social harmony and peaceful development.

During this period, in the town of Qufu, in the State of Liu, now Shandong, a government official named Confucius, became well known for his views on social order. Becoming disenchanted with the government of Lou, he resigned. For the remainder of his life he was devoted to the development of a philosophical system that would show the way a "true gentleman" should conduct himself, and how one in the position of governance should rule. Confucius made a statement that should loudly resonate for those who find themselves in positions of authority today: Consideration for others is the basis of a good life, a good society. (The Analects)
    
In other words, leaders should provide for the long-term best interests of their people, and not  seek to enhance their own wealth or power. But, how should people react if their government doesn't follow this advice or if they disagree with the approach of those in power? This is a serious question engendering various possible answers. Many would say demonstrate, protest and participate in civil disobedience! But what is the right way? 

Thousands of kilometers west of China, in the land of ancient Israel, another set of writings were still being developed at the time Confucius was formulating his ideas. These writings were compiled over a period of 1500 years, and today are known as the Bible. The Old Testament was completed around 500 BC and the New Testament was in the process of completion at a time when the Jewish nation was dealing with a loss of sovereignty to Roman authority. Thus between AD 31 to AD 95, there were many questions asked by Jews who had accepted the Christian faith about how God would have them deal with their situation. Should they protest? Should they revolt? Many in their society encouraged them to do so, as Roman rule became more oppressive. The early leaders of the faith, who had been personally taught by Jesus Christ, provided the answer. It may not have been the answer the people wanted to hear, but it was the answer, that if followed, will lead to the best long-term result. 

The Apostle Peter give this instruction:

"… Therefore submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake, whether to the king as supreme, or to governors, as to those who are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and for the praise of those who do good. … Honnor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king." (1 Peter 2:13-17 NKJV)

The Apostle know as Paul, whom God used to carry His message to non-Jews makes an even more direct statement:

"…Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life …." (1 Tim 2:1-2 NKJV)

These statements make it clear that a follower of the Bible should not be involved in protests or stand in opposition to government, but put issues before God in prayer, that He may guide those who are in positions of authority to rule for the benefit of all. We have to pray that rulers will be given wisdom to allow us to live a peaceful and prosperous life. It is our personal responsibility to be hard-working, productive and law-abiding citizens, which if we do, we will grow in favour with both God and man. This is how a true Christian respond to government.