The invention includes a cross-linking composition comprising a cross-linking compound and a cross-linking reaction additive selected from an organic acid and/or an acetate compound, wherein the cross-linking compound has the structure according to formula (IV): wherein the cross-linking reaction additive is capable of reacting with the cross-linking compound to form a reactive oligomer intermediate, which is capable of cross-linking an organic polymer. Also included is an organic polymer composition for use in forming a cross-linked organic polymer, comprising a cross-linking compound of Formula (IV), a cross-linking reaction additive and at least one organic polymer. In one embodiment, the at least one organic polymer has at least one halogen-containing reactive group and is dehalogenated by reacting with an alkali metal compound. Methods for making such compositions as well as articles of manufacture formed from such methods and organic polymer compositions, wherein the compositions and methods control the cross-linking reaction rate of a crosslinking compound for use in cross-linking an organic polymer are also included.