We did indeed send Noah to his people and he lived among them a thousand years save fifty. Eventually the Flood overtook them while they were engaged in wrongdoing. 14 but We saved him, together with all who were in the ark, which We then set up as a symbol [of Our grace] for all people [to remember]. 15 And Abraham, [too, was inspired by Us] when he said unto his people: "Worship God, and be conscious of Him: this is the best for you, if you but knew it! 16 You only serve, apart from God, idols and you create a calumny; those you serve, apart from God, have no power to provide for you. So seek after your provision with God, and serve Him, and be thankful to Him; unto Him you shall be returned. 17 "And if ye reject (the Message), so did generations before you: and the duty of the messenger is only to preach publicly (and clearly)." 18 Are then they [who deny the truth] not aware of how God creates [life] in the first instance, and then brings it forth anew? This, verily, is easy for God! 19 Say, [O Muhammad], "Travel through the land and observe how He began creation. Then Allah will produce the final creation. Indeed Allah, over all things, is competent." 20 He punishes whom He will and shows mercy to whom He pleases. And to Him you shall be returned. 21 You are not able to frustrate Him either in the earth or heaven, nor have you, other than Allah, a guardian or helper. 22