Missions accept risk, high risk to person and property, in order to reach men and women for Jesus Christ. A business will spend much money and venture capital for return to investors. Physically there is low risk, if any at all. Unemployment insurance and separation benefits provide security. Focus is on the individual's performance.
Risk is measured by objective standards and there is low tolerance for long-term return.
In missions, a project is not usually begun until funds are in hand or promised. There is often high physical risk to the individual and his family. These risks are caused by unseen factors found in the intangibles of culture and spiritual opposition. On the part of the individual and the mission, there is high tolerance for risk and a long-term return. In both business and missions there is loss.