He the Pearly Gates Will Open

“He the Pearly Gates Will Open” is a deeply emotional and hopeful gospel hymn that speaks of the Christian’s trust in the redeeming love of Christ and the promised entrance into Heaven. The hymn was written by Fred A. Blom, a Swedish-American hymn writer and evangelist who lived during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born in Sweden in 1867, Blom emigrated to the United States, where he became active in Christian ministry and hymn-writing. Although not widely known compared to hymnists like Fanny Crosby or Ira D. Sankey, Blom made a lasting impact through this one well-loved hymn. The music for “He the Pearly Gates Will Open” was composed by Elsie Ahlwen, another Swedish-American, who had a gift for writing music that perfectly captured the emotion and meaning of gospel texts. The hymn was likely first published in the early 20th century and has since appeared in many evangelical and Scandinavian hymnals.

Fred Blom’s life itself adds emotional depth to the hymn. According to biographical accounts, Blom experienced a dramatic personal transformation that directly influenced his hymn writing. He had once walked away from his Christian faith, falling into spiritual and moral decline, even spending time in prison. However, he later repented and returned to the Lord, experiencing forgiveness and restoration. This redemptive experience is reflected powerfully in “He the Pearly Gates Will Open,” which overflows with gratitude for divine mercy and the promise of eternal life. The lyrics convey a sense of personal testimony and assurance: “Love divine, so great and wondrous, / Deep and mighty, pure, sublime; / Coming from the heart of Jesus, / Just the same through tests of time.” These opening lines are rich with theological meaning, affirming the unchanging nature of Christ’s love and the believer’s confidence in that love even through life’s challenges. Blom’s personal journey from disgrace to redemption is emblematic of the hymn’s core message—that no matter how far one has fallen, God's grace can restore, redeem, and lead one home.

The refrain—“He the pearly gates will open, / So that I may enter in; / For He purchased my redemption / And forgave me all my sin”—encapsulates the hymn’s joyful certainty of salvation and the open welcome believers will receive in Heaven. The imagery of the “pearly gates” comes directly from the Book of Revelation (Revelation 21:21), where John describes the heavenly city, the New Jerusalem, with gates made of pearl—symbolizing purity, beauty, and the preciousness of entry into eternal life. Blom draws on this vision to affirm that entrance into heaven is not achieved by merit or effort, but by the redemptive work of Christ. The hymn continues with verses that reflect both sorrow and victory: “In life's eventide, at twilight, / At His door I'll knock and wait; / By the precious love of Jesus, / I shall enter heaven’s gate.” Here the hymn turns tender and intimate, imagining the moment of death not as a tragedy, but as a homecoming, where Christ Himself opens the gate for His beloved. The combination of simple melody and heartfelt lyrics has made this hymn a favorite at funerals, memorial services, and worship settings focused on hope and the afterlife.

“He the Pearly Gates Will Open” remains a cherished piece of gospel music due to its comforting message, singable melody, and deeply personal theology. It resonates especially with those who have experienced spiritual renewal, as Blom himself did, or who long for reassurance of eternal life. The hymn has been translated into many languages and is especially well-known in Scandinavian countries and among Swedish-American congregations. Its enduring popularity lies in its balance of theological depth and emotional warmth—combining the doctrine of atonement with the metaphor of a heavenly homecoming. The hymn’s assurance is not vague optimism but grounded in the specific Christian belief that Jesus' sacrificial death purchased redemption for sinners. For over a century, “He the Pearly Gates Will Open” has brought comfort to the grieving, strength to the struggling, and joy to those looking forward to their eternal reward. It stands as a testimony to the transformative power of grace and the certainty of Heaven for those who place their trust in Christ alone.