(And when My servants) the people of the Book (question thee concerning Me) whether I am near or far, (then surely I am nigh) then inform them, O Muhammad, that I am close when it comes to answering. (I answer the prayer of the supplicant when he crieth unto Me. So let them respond to Me) let them obey My Messenger (and believe in Me) and in My Messenger before asking, (in order that they may be led rightfully) so that they may be guided and have their prayers answered.