Recite to them, as a case in point, the story of the people of the town when the Messengers came to them. 13 When We sent two of them they called them liars; so We sent a third to strengthen them. "We have been sent to you," they said. 14 The people of the town said: “You are only human beings like ourselves, and the Merciful Lord has revealed nothing. You are simply lying.” 15 Said [the apostles]: "Our Sustainer knows that we have indeed been sent unto you; 16 and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.” 17 They answered: 'We predict evil of you. If you do not desist, we will stone you and a painful punishment from us will befall you' 18 They said, "Your omen is with yourselves. Is it because you were reminded? Rather, 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 Follow those who ask no recompense of you and are rightly guided. 21 And why should I not serve Him who originated me, and unto whom you shall be returned? 22 Should I worship other gods besides Him? If the Beneficent God was to afflict me with hardship, the intercession of the idols can be of no benefit to me nor could it rescue me from hardship. 23 In that case I would surely be in clear error. 24 I believe in your Lord, so hear me' 25 [And] he was told, "[Thou shalt] enter paradise!" - [whereupon] he exclaimed: "Would that my people knew 26 for what reason Allah has forgiven me and placed me among the honoured ones.” 27 ۞ And after that, no host out of heaven did We send down against his people, nor did We need to send down any: 28 It was not but one shout, and immediately they were extinguished. 29 Alas for My servants! Never does a Messenger come to them but they mock him. 30 Do they not consider how many of the generations have We destroyed before them, because they do not turn to them? 31 But each one of them all - will be brought before Us (for judgment). 32