Now they who ascribe divinity to aught beside God say: "Had God so willed, we would not have worshipped aught but Him - neither we nor our forefathers; nor would we have declared aught as forbidden without a commandment from Him." Even thus did speak those [sinners] who lived before their time; but, then, are the apostles bound to do more than clearly deliver the message [entrusted to them]? 35 We sent a Messenger to every nation, saying: 'Worship Allah and avoid the idols' Amongst them were some whom Allah guided, and some justly disposed to error. Travel in the land and see what was the end of those who belied (the Revelation and the prophets)! 36 Though you are ever so eager to guide them, Allah will not guide those who mislead (others). There shall be none to help them. 37 They swear emphatically in the name of God that God will not raise the dead. On the contrary, it is a promise incumbent on Him, though most men do not understand, 38 In order that He may make clear to them the matter in which they differed, and the disbelievers may realise that they were liars. 39 For to anything which We have willed, We but say the word, "Be", and it is. 40