The preacher could move. This doesn't settle the problem, but it removes the preacher from an unhealthy situation. However, the scenario described herein will simply be repeated over and over unless the congregation happens to get a wise preacher who knows how this system works, and avoids it. But even then, he will not be popular with those whose agenda is to rule or ruin, but whose agenda is stymied by a preacher who refuses to cooperate. Often the situation described herein winds up in division.
Brethren learn the plot and plan, grow weary of it, and refuse to tolerate it longer.
So, they move out and start another congregation where they will be free of this ugly situation until someone decides to use the new congregation in the same way and for the same purposes. It is a sad fact that the situation described herein can be found in many congregations. I knew a congregation that had three elders. They were trying to agree on a preacher. I do not write this article with great pleasure because it brings back memories of sad experiences in my own work as a gospel preacher over a period of some 53 years.