The bringing low of those exalted by the world is here contrasted by the exaltation of God. The contrast in position, and particularly direction is intentional. The phrase "brought down" of verse 15 is directly matched with exalted in verse 16. Thus the two verses highlight the complete reversal of the structure of power. The men whose power relies on the hand of man are bought down precisely because the true power of the Lord is manifest. The false is replaced by the True.