The former generations, like the people of Noahِ Abraham- Moses and Lot, rejected the warnings of the apostles resolutely, and ruined themselves and their societies as the Meccan polytheists did.

      They were not misled for the lack of true leaders; that Allah did always send his apostles to warn His servant to avoid evil and mischief.

      Most of the past generations lost the way by erring, while God in His Mercy sent Messengers successively to warn and admonish people and to put them aright. But they obstinately refused to accept guidance, and therefore they lost their opportunity for amendment and God's forgiveness.

      Those who prefer evil over righteousness, will not prosper in their long run. But the sincere and faithful servants of God are exceptions in this regard, and good end belongs to them.

      At the ending of the above passage, Allah tells His Messengers and faithful servants to study the historical events and see how was the end of those who were warned and they deliberately rejected God's warnings, and compare their ends with that of the unbelievers who lost all chances.