Prophet Muhammed received his message via the angel Gabriel. Gabriel delivered the word of God directly to Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him).Initially (in Mecca), Muhammad's message was met with pity and mockery from the majority of the locals. Only the closest people within Muhammad's social circle converted to Islam however, apart from this there were no significant positive esponses. After seeing the growing influence of Islam, the leaders of Mecca resorted to persecuting Muhammad and his followers. They even bribed him to let go of Islam, promising him wealth and power. Eventually, Muhammad and his tribe were boycotted and exiled to the Valley of Abu Talib where they had to face inhumane conditions, having nothing to eat or drink. After this exile was ended however, Muhammad resorted to spread his message to Medina. The people of Medina were more welcoming to Muhammad, and his message. They lent an open-ear, Muhammad knew that know from the resultants of the Pledges of Aqabah. So, when he moved to Medina and assumed control, a vast majority received his message with respect and sincerity. It was the city of Medina that allowed Muhammad to nurture Islam and present it as it is now, a global religion. Hope that helped :)