Charles Ellicott Commentary 1 Corinthians 14:8

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

For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound.—Not only has each instrument its own sound, but in each instrument there is a distinction of notes. If a trumpet does not clearly sound the advance when it is intended, or the retreat when it is meant, the trumpet is useless, the soldiers not knowing what to do.