Say, [O Muhammad], "I only invoke my Lord and do not associate with Him anyone." 20 Say: Lo! I control not hurt nor benefit for you. 21 Say, "Surely no one can protect me against God, nor can I find besides Him any place of refuge. 22 if I should fail to convey [to the world whatever illumination comes to me] from God and His messages." Now as for him who rebels against God and His Apostle - verily, the fire of hell awaits him, therein to abide beyond the count of time. 23 When they see that which they were promised they shall know who is weaker in helpers and fewer in numbers. 24 Say: 'I do not know whether that which you are promised is nigh, or whether my Lord will appoint for it a space; 25 He alone has knowledge of what is hidden. He reveals this to none, 26 "Except a messenger whom He has chosen: and then He makes a band of watchers march before him and behind him, 27 That He may know that they have indeed conveyed the messages of their Lord. He surroundeth all their doings, and He keepeth count of all things. 28