Luke 1:51

Shewed strength. Another typically Hebrew expression. By the figure of metonymy the “arm” is the symbol of power (see Ex. 6:6; Ps. 10:15; 136:12). The expression, “shewed strength,” or “made strong,” is used by Greek classical authors, as here, to denote victory over one’s enemies.

The proud. Or, “the haughty.” God confutes them, as if they had been scattered and their plans disrupted by a whirlwind. Pride is the essence of sin. It was pride in the heart of Lucifer that occasioned rebellion in heaven (see Isa. 14:12-14). A false sense of pride leaves its possessor, for the time being, beyond the reach of help that God might bring to him. Nothing is more offensive to God than pride, which consists essentially in self-exaltation and a corresponding depreciation of others. Little wonder that the Scriptures affirm, “Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall” (Prov. 16:18). Jesus said, “Whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted” (Luke 14:11). Humility is the very opposite of pride, and is a trait most precious in the sight of God (see on v. 48).

Imagination. Gr. dianoia, “mind,” or “understanding”; that is, intellectual insight or moral understanding. Dianoia refers to the faculty of thought, especially to moral understanding.