Andreas of Caesarea — on Rev 6:1 (COMMENTARY ON THE APOCALYPSE 6:1)

“Indeed, here is indicated the good order of those in heaven, which descends from the first ranks to the second. And therefore from one figure of the four-formed living creatures, namely, from the lion, he heard the first voice that gave the command, "Come!" to the angel who mystically symbolizes the vision. The first living creature, the lion, seems to me to signify the royal intention of the apostles against the demons. Concerning them it is said, "Behold, the kings of the earth have gathered together." And again: "You will establish them as rulers over all the earth."”