A.T. Robertson Commentary 1 Corinthians 14:8

"For if the trumpet give an uncertain voice, who shall prepare himself for war?" — 1 Corinthians 14:8 (ASV)

An uncertain voice (αδηλον φωνην). Old adjective (α privative, δηλος, manifest). In N.T. only here and Lu 11:44. Military trumpet (σαλπιγξ) is louder than pipe or harp.

Shall prepare himself (παρασκευασετα). Direct middle future indicative of παρασκευαζω, old verb, in N.T. only here, 2 Corinthians 9:2ff.; Acts 10:10. From παρα, σκευη (preparation).