1 Corinthians 9:19

For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more (KJV)

Then: With this verse Paul explains he is not a free man. He belongs to Christ and is a servant to all (Baker, p. 134). That goes back to the image presented by Wright of a Roman triumphal parade in which the Christians, followers of Christ, are yoked together at the end, not standing free at the beginning.

Now: Freedom in Christ, to serve him, comes with Christ's statement that his yoke is easy. Our life, whether in the ministry or not, requires us to be his servant, yoked to him, and being purposefully dedicated to living under his laws and direction.

Extra source: Cornerstone Biblical Commentary 1Corinthians (William Baker), 2 Corinthians (Ralph Martin & Carl Toney), ed. by Philip Comfort. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, c2006.