John 3:16 is a single verse. Does it need a single verb?
John 3:16-17 are multiple verses. Do they need a plural verb?

I treat the reference as if there is an implied the verse of or the verses in.

If the sentence concerns a single verse I use a single verb.
The verse of Genesis 1:3 describes the creation of light.
Genesis 1:3 describes the creation of light.

If the sentence concerns more than one verse I use a plural verb.
The verses in Genesis 1:3-20 describe the first five days of creation.
Genesis 1:3-20 describe the first five days of creation.