There is nothing new under the sun.
The nation of Israel had just left Egypt. This was the first time that Israel was more than one family and also not under the rule of a foreign government. Moses could not deal with all the needs of the people himself.
In Exodus 18:13-26 Moses’ father in law, Jethro, suggested that Moses enlist the leaders of the people to help. Moses taught those leaders God’s Law and statutes. This was the beginning of what later became the Elders at the gate of the city.
When you look at the new testament concept of the Eldership of a church, think about the elders at the city gate in the old testament.