How should elders relate and respond to church members?

Acts 20:28“Guard yourselves and God’s people. Feed and shepherd God’s flock—his church, purchased with his own blood—over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you as leaders.”

1 Peter 5:1-4A word to you who are elders in the churches. I [Peter], too, am an elder and a witness to the sufferings of Christ. And I, too, will share in his glory when he is revealed to the whole world. As a fellow elder, I appeal to you: Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you. Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly—not for what you will get out of it, but because you are eager to serve God. Don’t lord it over the people assigned to your care, but lead them by your own good example. And when the Great Shepherd appears, you will receive a crown of never-ending glory and honor.

Elders should set a good example of faith in Christ and lead out of love for Christ and his people, not out of a sense of obligation or duty or desire for power. And while leading a church, they should lead with love and humility, not condescending to members because of their authoritative position. Their goal should be to guard and protect the people from those who might harm or mislead them.