I should add…
Although lip service is given that elders are not “above” their fellow brothers and sisters, and they are not supposed to be position minded, ect, ect—human nature is human nature.
Being an elder can become a source of religious pride. Any who might be inclined to disagree should examine why then being removed or stepping down is viewed a source of great shame.
It’s not easy to become an elder. It takes years of work to be appointed…and it takes allot of work to maintain that position. They must be viewed as exemplary under the Watchtower mindset. Therefore, they are on a pedestal of sorts, despite any denial to the contrary.
Sometimes being an elder involves visiting neighboring congregations and giving talks and then being taken out to eat by the congregation's hospitality.
They are complimented for their talks, ect…And if they work very hard, are liked by the CO, they might be given a part on the circuit assembly.
Human nature being what it is, this pedestal is addicting. Compliments are addicting. Recognition and approval is addicting. So yes, this can go to some people’s heads.
JWs are taught not to strive for any “worldly” achievements. But in the congregation, they are given the illusion of achievement that they are denied in the outside world. This theocratic version of achievement can go to some people’s heads as well.
There is also a segment of humanity that gravitate toward having strict rules for everything and complying with the letter of the law no matter how unreasonable. Some of these become elders.
Therefore, some elders do display a Barney Fife mentality. Believing themselves humble, they’ve a great amount of pride in their position which they are addicted to, and they enforce the tiniest rule, or hint of a rule.
The first rule is: Obey all rules!