Recite to them, as a case in point, the story of the people of the town when the Messengers came to them. 13 We sent them two Messengers whom they rejected. We supported them by sending a third one who told the people, "We are the Messengers (of God) who have been sent to you". 14 They said, “You are nothing but mortals like us; the Most Gracious has not sent down anything – you are nothing but liars.” 15 They said: Our Lord knows that we are most surely apostles to you. 16 And our duty is but plain conveyance (of the message). 17 They said, 'We augur ill of you. If you give not over, we will stone you and there shall visit you from us a painful chastisement.' 18 The Messengers said, "This ill omen lies within yourselves. Will you then take heed? In fact, you are a transgressing people." 19 And from the outermost part of the city came a man running; he said, “O my people! Obey those who have been sent.” 20 "Obey those who ask no wages of you (for themselves), and who are rightly guided. 21 For what cause should I not serve Him Who hath created me, and unto Whom ye will be brought back? 22 Shall I take others besides Him as gods? If the Gracious God should intend me any harm, their intercession will be of no avail, nor can they deliver me. 23 In that case I would surely be in clear error. 24 “Indeed I have believed in your Lord, so heed me.” 25 It was said (to him): 'Enter Paradise' and he said: 'Would that my people knew 26 how my Lord has forgiven me and placed me among the honoured ones!" 27 ۞ We did not send down any army against his people from heaven, nor did We have to send one. 28 It was but one Shout, and lo! they were extinct. 29 Ah! Alas for (My) Servants! There comes not a messenger to them but they mock him! 30 Behold they not how many We have destroyed before them of the generations! verily unto them they shall not return. 31 And indeed, all of them will yet be brought present before Us. 32