Several aspects of this beloved composition set it forth not only as a hymn of praise, but also as a hymn of grace. In the first stanza, it is Jesus alone who opens the lifegate of salvation, so that all have the opportunity to be saved. This is a clear message of grace, in contrast to the idea that man must prove his worth before eternal life is granted. The third stanza and chorus continue to bring this point of grace home, proclaiming that it is God who has done great things, and the One to whom praise and adoration belong. As is evident here, as well as in her other hymns, Fanny Crosby was a great woman of God who clearly understood the importance of God's marvelous grace in salvation.
Some editions prefer victory.
In 1858 Fanny married Mr. Alexander Van Alstyne, a pupil and then a teacher at the New York Institution for the blind where she also taught. He was an accomplished musician and theologian, and apparently humble, since he insisted Fanny retain her literary name, which was already well known. This author also published many poems under pen names since she seemed to be flooding the market with her compositions. 4 Ibid., 328.