After the Exodus from Egypt, Israel must travel in a wilderness. The twelve tribes of Israel included a vast multitude of people. The army numbered 603,550 men above 20 years of age (Num. 1:46). Plus add the uncounted Levites, women and children and it would number in the millions. How could they control this mass of people? The solution was a trumpet that could be heard and relayed throughout the tribes. In those days, there were only two types of trumpets, a costly silver trumpet or a common trumpet called a shofar (horn of a ram). Naturally, because of its availability, they used the shofar. The trumpets were used not only by the priests and those in command, but also tribe leaders, watchmen, or any man. Without the trumpet, there would only be confusion, chaos, and lack of control. All the people (including children), at all times and in all places, were aware and alert for certain trumpet sounds and blasts.
A Jewish missionary taught that one loud, long blast was to alert the people, then different sounds and blasts advised different commands. “They blew a long blast then the walls fell flat (Josh. 6:5). Trumpets were used to withhold (Num. 10:4), warn (Ezk. 33:3), war (2 Sam. 2:28), welcome (Lev. 25:9), and worship (Ex. 19:19). Trumpets blew to step or stop with the cloud or the fire (Num. 9:16-21). Trumpets blew for night rest (taps) and morning risings (reveille). Trumpets must make distinct sounds. An uncertain sound caused confusion (I Cor. 14:6-8). Today, there are many uncertain sounds of the “coming” of the Lord. Some set times and prophecy dates, but they have proven to be “uncertain trumpet sounds.” Only God knows when the last trumpet will finally sound (Matt. 24:36). Israel was always alert and aware of the trumpet sound.
We must also be alert and aware of the final heavenly trumpet sound. It will give a distinct sound that will call all who are in Christ to be together with Him forever! Read these distinct words, “For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout…and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive (in Christ) and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words” (1 Thess. 4:16-18).
In January 2022, it was estimated there are now 7,100+ world languages. When the trumpet of God sounds, all those in Christ, in all languages, from all over this vast world will be caught up together. Could He come today? Before you answer, remember this verse, “Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh” (Matt.24:44). Don’t look for signs – look for the Son. As you look with your eyes, you should listen with your ears and heart for the trumpet. “Even so, Lord Jesus, Come quickly” (Rev. 22:20). Perhaps Today!
Be aware and alert. Listen for the trumpet!
